Tips on Choosing the Right Yacht Dealer

Updated May 4, 2023

When searching for your dream boat, you deserve a yacht dealer who puts your needs first. Choosing a Marine Industry Certified Dealership, working with a yacht dealer who boasts a stellar service department, and enlisting the help of top-notch yacht brokers are all critical components to securing an effortless buying experience. With a dedicated team committed to your satisfaction, you can cruise the open waters with confidence.

What is a Marine Industry Certified Yacht Dealer

A Marine Industry Certified Dealership is a badge of honor reserved for dealerships that put their customers first. This certification is attained through a rigorous, independently verified process that ensures a dealership meets the highest standards in operations, facilities, sales and service processes, customer satisfaction, and employee training. Companies that earn this certification are committed to providing an exceptional experience and complete satisfaction to every customer. To maintain these standards, they are re-certified every two years.

What To Expect From a Marine Industry Certified Yacht Dealer

When you opt for a Marine Industry Certified Dealership, you’re choosing a boat dealer that puts your needs first. This certification guarantees top-notch service, friendly and knowledgeable employees, and premium quality products. With every step of the boat-buying experience, expect to be guided and supported by yacht brokers and employees who prioritize your lifestyle and needs. And even after you’ve found the perfect vessel, rest assured that a Marine Industry Certified Dealership will provide reliable maintenance and service to keep you enjoying the water for years to come.

What to look for in a Marine Certified Yacht Dealership

When searching for a Marine Certified Dealership, keep these top tips in mind. Firstly, consider the location of the dealer. Is it near your preferred boating destination? This is crucial for quick and convenient access to any necessary services. Secondly, look for attentive and friendly staff members who prioritize customer satisfaction. You want to build a long-lasting relationship with a dealer who goes above and beyond. Thirdly, research the dealership online by reading reviews and testimonials to gain insight into their customer service standards and business ethics. Certifications or notable accomplishments can assure you of their expertise and reliability. Lastly, a clean and organized shipyard and showroom is a good indicator of a well-run business and a dealership that will continue to care for you post-sale.

Does the Yacht Dealer have a Service Department?

When it comes to yacht ownership, service is king. Don’t underestimate the importance of a top-notch service department to keep your vessel running smoothly for years to come. To ensure the best care possible for your yacht, it’s crucial to choose a yacht dealer with a stellar reputation in this area. A reputable service department will tackle any issue, big or small, that arises with your boat, and they’ll do it quickly and efficiently. Plus, they have the expertise and resources to source and order parts promptly, getting you back on the water in no time.

Does the Boat Dealership have a knowledgeable Service Manager?

Another crucial factor to consider when choosing a boat dealership is whether or not they have a service manager available to talk to you. A dealership that sells too many new boats may not be able to provide the attention your boat needs. A service manager can be your saving grace in the long run, potentially saving you thousands of dollars in troubleshooting costs. They can advise you on the best practices for maintaining your boat, help you understand the various warranties that come with it, and provide you with valuable tips to keep your vessel in top condition.

Does the Company Have Experienced Yacht Brokers?

Alongside a reliable service department, a skilled and knowledgeable broker is priceless. A great broker should possess ample expertise in engines, systems, and scheduled maintenance, allowing them to advise you on whether a vessel is worth considering, especially when it comes time to survey a boat which can cost thousands of dollars. They should also furnish you with copies of service records and provide you with an overview of your expected future service costs.

This may include when the next oil change is due, when impellers, batteries, and coolant system services are necessary, when the AC system needs servicing, to more significant repairs, such as servicing your Seakeeper, hydraulic line changes, and cutlass bearing work. Even if you’re not interested in technical details, it’s crucial to ask the broker for an estimated figure of what you can expect in terms of service costs. This will help you budget appropriately and avoid any unpleasant surprises.

>>> Read about the Qualities of a Successful Yacht Broker

The Key to a Successful Boat-Buying Experience

The key to a successful boat-buying experience lies in carefully selecting the company and broker that align with your needs and preferences. Take the time to conduct thorough research and make a wise choice to ensure a smooth and enjoyable process.

The Galati Difference

At Galati Yacht Sales, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional customer service and support long after the sale is complete. Our commitment to servicing what we sell means that you can trust us to keep your vessel in top condition for years to come. With four full-service marinas throughout the Gulf Coast, we offer a single-source solution for all your boating needs. Our skilled technicians specialize in everything from electronics to engines, towers, and more, and we’re an authorized warranty service center for engines, generators, air conditioning, and more.

When you choose Galati Yacht Sales, you’ll experience the Galati Difference firsthand. We prioritize our customers’ investment with aggressive pricing and premier customer support. We understand that buying a boat is a significant investment, which is why we’re committed to providing you with the best possible buying experience. From our experienced yacht brokers who can advise you on the best vessel for your needs, to our knowledgeable service managers who can help you budget for future maintenance and repairs, we’re here to support you every step of the way.