If this has not been done before the sale, it is strongly recommended to have a survey and a dry survey done. This will ensure that there are no problems with the boat, provide you with an estimate of its value for insurance purposes and allow you to carry out an initial refit.
An adapted coverage
Insuring your boat is not compulsory, but most ports require it. The river world is not well known by insurers and the great majority of "pleasure craft" contracts are inadequate. There are some specialized firms that you should contact. They will be able to propose you an adapted cover, including if the boat is to become your residence.
Where to park your boat ?
You will also need to find a place for your boat. Ideally, if the size of your purchase allows it, a harbor will offer all the services you need. These don't have to be organized marinas; many waterfront municipalities have docks with long-term parking.
Public river domain
It is also possible to park your boat outside the organized spaces. To do this, it is essential to have an AOT - Authorization to Occupy the Territory, or COT - Convention to Occupy the Territory. This authorization is to be requested from the waterway management organization. It is limited to a well-defined area, is generally granted for 5 years but can be revoked at any time. It will cost you an annual fee calculated per square meter occupied. It should be noted that an AOT is non-transferable, whatever those who offer their boat "with a pitch" may claim.
Transportation by road
If you have bought a boat far from your usual place of navigation, you have two options: to have it transported or to transport it by waterway. The first solution is the most expensive, especially since it involves two cranes. To simplify your life, choose a route between 2 points equipped with fixed handling means. This will avoid you the unpleasant experience of having to pay the waiting costs of a road crane in case of delay of the truck.
From lock to lock
When you have time, the river trip is a formula that offers the attraction of seeing the country, and getting the boat in hand. It can be done in several stages, either using the bicycle to bring the car closer, or taking advantage of public transport. For tricky passages like the Rhone or if you lack time, retired bargemen or boaters enjoy sailing on the cheap.
A toll sticker
On the network of VNF - Voies Navigables de France, you will have to pay a vignette to be able to navigate. It is not due when the boat remains parked for long periods. It is up to you to decide which formula is best for your use: daily, weekly, monthly or yearly. It is possible to get it online on the VNF website.
A circulation card
In order for the boat to be considered yours, you must register it. The procedure is relatively simple. You have to fill in the Cerfa 14682*01 form and send it to the Service d'enregistrement des titres de navigation en eaux intérieures of which you are a member. You will receive a traffic card which is equivalent to a title of ownership.
In addition to all these formalities, be sure to check that your license corresponds to the category of your new boat, boating option "inland waters for less than 20 meters and option "large yacht" beyond. You will also have the opportunity to review the safety equipment on board and to acquire the guide map for your navigation area.
