Frequently Asked Questions

Buying a new boat

1. Why should I buy a boat from Simpson Marine?
   As a long established family business with over 30 years of experience, we at Simpson Marine can offer you a friendly and professional service with totally unbiased advice on all the quality brands that we stock.
2. Do you teach me how to use my boat?
   Yes we do. On the day of your hand-over we make sure you are confident with how everything works and that you can operate the boat safely.
3. Do I need to insure my boat?
   Yes, you should insure your boat from the date of delivery or hand-over. We have brochures available in our sales office.
4. What safety equipment do I need?
   This depends on what boat you buy or where you intend to use the boat. The minimum standard we would recommend is as follows: Suitable amount of lifejackets to cover all age groups aboard, suitable flare pack, anchor with chain and line, handheld GPS, VHF radio, compass, medical box, fire extinguisher.
5. How can I pay for my boat?
   We accept the following payment methods: bank transfer, debit card, bankers draft or personal cheque (these will have to clear prior to the boat being collected or delivered), credit card (1% surcharge over £2000.00) or cash up to the value of £9,000.00.
6. Where can I keep my boat?
   We can recommend a marina in your area or offer you on-site storage with us at our Park and Launch Boatyard "Click here"

Buying a used boat

1. What guarantee do I get with a used boat?
   If it is a boat from our own stock we can offer you 3 months engine warranty from date of sale. If the vessel is on brokerage with us then we can not offer any warranty with the boat (see surveys).
2. Will I need to survey the boat?
   This is entirely at the discretion of the buyer. In some instances when boats are of a lower value, it is not essential. However, we can not accept any liability for any used boat we sell. Remember, a survey is not a guarantee it is only the surveyors opinion. The surveyor will identify any defects and give a condition report on the boat.
3. How can I pay for my boat?
   We accept the following payment methods: bank transfer, debit card, bankers draft or personal cheque (these will have to clear prior to the boat being collected or delivered), credit card (1% surcharge over £2000.00), or cash up to the value of £9,000.00.
4. What documentation should I receive?
   You should receive the following paperwork: sales Invoice, Bill of Sale, C.E.
   documentation where applicable, boat and engine manuals where applicable.

Selling my boat

1. What are your brokerage charges?
   We charge 10% up to the first £10,000.00 and 8% thereafter plus Vat @ 17.5%.
2. Do we pay storage while the boat is for sale?
   We offer 3 months free storage for boats on trailers (this does not include boats from our yard storage) thereafter we make a charge of £75.00 per month which is deducted from the sale value. If your boat is kept in the water we charge £100.00 per calendar month.
3. How do you promote my boat?
   We currently advertise all our boats for sale on our website www.simpson-marine.co.uk as well as Boatsandoutboards & Yachtworld. We also from time to time advertise in the national boating magazines.

Slipway information

1. What are the current sea conditions?
   For up to date weather forecasts "Click here"
2. What are your launching times?
   We are open everyday for launching except for 4 days over the Christmas period. We can launch most boats on trailers at any state of tide, however, recovering boats requires 2 metres of tide so "Click here" for up to date tidal information. If you are not sure call the shop (01273) 612612.
3. Can I store my boat with you overnight?
   Yes you can but this is subject to a first come first served as we only have provision for 10 boats. We charge £10.00 for berthing (this does not include your trailer).
4. Where can I fuel my boat?
   If you need diesel there is a pump in the marina.
   If you need petrol you will have to bring it with you by fuel container or re-fuel at Brighton or Eastbourne Marina.
5. Do you provide parking?
   Sorry, but we do not have any provision for parking onsite, however there are areas in the vicinity of the Marina where you can park your vehicle.
6. How do I get a launch ticket?
   Simply go into the chandlery store where you pay for your launch ticket. Once you have this, the tractor driver will launch your boat as soon as he possibly can (remember sometimes we do get very busy so please be patient).