Greece is one of Europe’s most active markets for used sailboats. Every year, thousands of yachts rotate out of charter fleets, and private owners list their boats across Athens, Lefkas, Preveza, Rhodes, and Kos. For buyers, that means plenty of choice—but also plenty of risk.
Photos on a broker’s listing rarely tell the whole story. Hidden issues with rigging, engines, or paperwork can turn a “bargain” into a €20,000+ refit. That’s why inspections matter.
We created a 75-point sailboat inspection checklist to help buyers avoid mistakes and compare boats systematically. You can use this list yourself—or have a Clearhull First Mate?A Clearhull First Mate is an experienced sailor who visits the boat on your behalf, taking detailed photos, videos, and filling out a 75-point structured checklist. Book Your First Mate Here apply it on site for €120, with photos and notes delivered before you spend €500+ on travel.
👉 Download the Full 75-Point Checklist (PDF)
Why a Checklist Matters
Buying a boat is emotional. Step into a sunlit cockpit and it’s easy to fall in love, overlooking cracked rigging or loose rudder bearings. A checklist brings discipline to the process.
It ensures you:
- Cover every major system, from hull to electrics.
- Reduce the risk of costly surprises.
- Compare boats across different marinas and islands.
In the fragmented Greek market, a structured checklist is your best tool for making smart decisions.
The 5 Categories of the 75-Point Checklist
Our full checklist has 75 detailed items, grouped into five main categories. Here’s an overview with sample checks from each area.
1. Hull
The foundation of the boat. Even minor issues here can mean big money.
- Gelcoat cracks or blisters.
- Keel attachment points.
- Rudder bearings and joints.
👉 Full details in the downloadable checklist.
2. Deck & Rigging
The most extensive part of the inspection, since rigging and deck hardware wear heavily in the Med.
- Deck surface and signs of delamination.
- Standing rigging (shrouds, stays, turnbuckles).
- Anchoring gear (windlass, chain, locker).
👉 Download the full checklist for the 32 deck and rigging items we inspect.
3. Engine Bay
Engines are expensive to repair, so even small leaks matter.
- Oil leaks and belt wear.
- Engine mounts and bay insulation.
- Wiring, filters, and hoses.
4. Interior
A tired interior isn’t just cosmetic—it’s often a signal of neglect or water ingress.
- Condition of bulkheads and keel bolts.
- Galley systems (fridge, burners, oven).
- Electrical switchboard and nav table instruments.
5. Safety Equipment
Critical for compliance and insurance.
- Fire extinguishers in date.
- Life raft and PFDs.
- EPIRB, flares, and Lifesling.
👉 To see all 75 detailed inspection points, download the complete checklist (PDF).
What a First Mate?A Clearhull First Mate is an experienced sailor who visits the boat on your behalf, taking detailed photos, videos, and filling out a 75-point structured checklist. Book Your First Mate Here Looks For vs. a Surveyor
- First Mate?A Clearhull First Mate is an experienced sailor who visits the boat on your behalf, taking detailed photos, videos, and filling out a 75-point structured checklist. Book Your First Mate Here Inspection (€120): Quick, structured, photo/video review against the 75-point checklist. Best for eliminating poor boats before you fly to see them.
- Marine Survey (€1,000+): A professional pre-purchase survey with haul-out, sea trial, and detailed reporting. Required for insurers and banks.
Think of the First Mate?A Clearhull First Mate is an experienced sailor who visits the boat on your behalf, taking detailed photos, videos, and filling out a 75-point structured checklist. Book Your First Mate Here as your filter and the surveyor as your final safeguard.
How to Use the Checklist
- Start remotely: Book a First Look Inspection to apply the 75-point checklist without leaving home.
- Shortlist candidates: Rule out boats with major red flags.
- Travel smart: Only visit boats that pass the initial checks.
- Confirm with a survey: Once you’ve found “the one,” hire a surveyor for a full pre-purchase inspection.
👉 For the complete buying process, see our How to Buy a Used Boat in Greece (2025 Guide).
Final Thoughts
The Greek used boat market is full of opportunity—but also full of risk. A structured sailboat inspection checklist gives you confidence and saves you from wasting thousands on bad boats.
Use the 75-point checklist yourself, or let a Clearhull First Mate?A Clearhull First Mate is an experienced sailor who visits the boat on your behalf, taking detailed photos, videos, and filling out a 75-point structured checklist. Book Your First Mate Here apply it for you. Either way, you’ll buy smarter and sail with confidence.