How I Thrillingly Chose and Bought My Dream Boat
Choosing and purchasing a dream boat is both an exhilarating and daunting process. Emidio Salvatorelli’s journey to acquiring the Beneteau Oceanis 46.1, dubbed “Superba,” is a testament to the meticulous planning and thought required for such a significant investment.
Deciding on the Perfect Boat
Emidio, a seasoned sailor, spent years yearning for his ultimate vessel. Having experienced various types of boats over the decades—such as a Comet 801 and a Jeanneau 43—he knew what he wanted. His dream truly began to take shape in 2021.
Initially, Emidio explored the market for used boats, analyzing offers with the help of experienced brokers. However, he found that none met his specific requirements. This prompted him to redirect his focus towards new boats, assessing the features and experiences of fellow sailors.
Reflecting on Personal Needs
During his search, Emidio asked himself several critical questions:
- What is my budget?
- Will I use the boat primarily for cruising or racing?
- What type of crew do I want to navigate with?
- What safety features are essential for night sailing?
- What size and model do I prefer?
- Which marina will accommodate my boat?
- What accessories are necessary?
After much consideration, he set an initial budget of around €300,000, recognizing that this figure would likely evolve with his choices.
Key Features of the Dream Boat
Emidio envisioned a boat that combined comfort and safety, capable of being sailed solo. His specifications were clear:
- White color (to avoid excessive heat)
- No teak on deck (for the same reason)
- No air conditioning (to maximize storage space)
His essential accessories included:
- Bow thruster
- Cruising and radial furling systems
- Electric winches
- Spacious water tanks
- Advanced electronics, including radar and GPS
Ultimately, he decided on the Beneteau Oceanis 46.1, which features three cabins and is designed to navigate the Adriatic Sea comfortably.
Overcoming Delivery Challenges
Initially, Emidio planned to have his boat delivered to Port Fréjus, France, for logistical advantages. However, due to time constraints and an intense work schedule, he opted for delivery to Ravenna, Italy.
Upon fulfilling the payment, an unexpected situation arose. His boat was seized by the police during transport due to a documentation error regarding the boat’s specifications. The driver lacked the necessary qualifications for transporting the vessel safely.
A Valuable Lesson
This incident taught Emidio the importance of validating every detail during the purchase process. It highlighted the potential risks involved in boat transportation, even with insurance in place.
Once clear of the legal hurdles, his dream boat finally reached its destination. Emidio’s experience serves as a reminder that purchasing a dream boat involves thorough research, thoughtful questions, and the courage to navigate unforeseen challenges.
