Winter's Edge: Your Guide to High-Value Trailerable Trimarans The winter layover isn't just about battening down the hatches—it's a strategic advantage for the sharp buyer. Discover why the colder months are your season to secure an accessible, high-performance multihull at the best possible price. MARKET OPPORTUNITY Why Cold Weather Equals Smart Buying Power Think of winter as the ultimate market equalizer. As boating demand ebbs, inventory lingers, providing you with more time and less competition to evaluate vessels carefully. Motivated sellers want to shed storage fees and winterizing costs, creating a genuine opportunity for negotiation. This reduction in market pressure allows you to conduct a proper, unhurried inspection—critical for a complex boat like a folding trimaran. 12.4% Drop in Used Sales First half of 2024 vs. new boats The Trimaran Advantage: Stability Meets Performance • Three-Hull Design A narrow main hull plus two stabilizing outrigger hulls (amas) create exceptional stability with minimal heel • Speed & Comfort Stay flat and comfortable even when the wind pipes up—perfect for beginners and recreational sailors • Trailerable Freedom Launch anywhere, store at home, and maintain resale value through consistent global demand from enthusiasts What Hidden Truths Does the Haul-Out Reveal? The annual haul-out for winter storage is a gift to the buyer. When the boat sits on the hard, you get clear access to parts often submerged or inaccessible during the sailing season. This is your opportunity to inspect the complex components of a multihull thoroughly. Folding Mechanisms Inspect all hinge points, pins, and locking mechanisms for wear, corrosion, or play. Look for stress cracks near where the folding beams meet the main hull—these spots carry enormous loads during sailing. Centerboard & Rudder Check for signs of wobble or damage where the foils pivot. Any water intrusion into the centerboard trunk or rudder cassette can lead to expensive repairs, especially if freezing is a factor. Trailer Hardware Examine the trailer frame, bearings, bunks, and tie-down points carefully. The trailer is a functional extension of your boat—any rust or failing lights must be factored into your final price. Focus Areas: Folding Amas and Connection Points Structural Integrity Check 01 Hinge Points Test every hinge for smooth operation and secure locking 02 Beam Connections Look for stress cracks where beams meet the main hull 03 Locking Systems Verify all pins and locks engage properly with no play 04 Load Points Inspect high-stress areas for signs of fatigue or damage Staying Stable: Mastering the Icy Ramp Low Center of Gravity Focus on a trailer with well-adjusted bunks that cradle all three hulls securely for safe transport and launch Winch & Brake Systems Make sure these critical systems are in top condition—you need maximum control on slippery, frozen ramps Bunk Alignment Verify proper support for the unique three-hull design to prevent stress during transport and retrieval Using Market Metrics to Your Advantage You enter negotiations with a significant advantage this winter. Sellers of pre-owned vessels are highly incentivized to close deals before the new year to avoid further carrying costs. Higher Inventory Used boat inventory burden creates seller urgency Storage Costs Sellers want to avoid winter storage and maintenance fees Better Deals Leverage timing and data to negotiate your best price Pro Tip: Reference the 12.4% drop in used boat sales when negotiating. Sellers know the market is soft and are motivated to move inventory before spring. Quick Winter Inspection Tips That Save Dollars Before you finalize any deal, adopt a practical sailor's eye. These simple checks reveal the true condition and care history of any vessel. 1 The Smell Test Does the boat smell musty? That indicates poor ventilation and potential mold, which can destroy long-term value. 2 Sail Storage Are the sails removed and stored properly, or bundled haphazardly in a locker? This detail reveals the previous owner's level of care. 3 Bilge Inspection Always inspect the bilge first—is it dry, or does it hold stale, dark water? A dry bilge is a sign of a tight vessel. 4 Overall Maintenance Look for signs of consistent upkeep: clean lines, organized lockers, and well-maintained fittings throughout the boat. The Winter Maintenance Advantage Get Ready for Spring Launch Purchasing in the off-season gives you ample time for winter maintenance and upgrades. You can address any issues discovered during inspection at a leisurely pace, ensuring you're ready to launch the moment the water warms. • Complete repairs without rushing before the sailing season • Upgrade rigging, electronics, or safety equipment affordably • Learn your boat's systems thoroughly before first launch • Build relationships with local marine service providers Launch Your Ambition: Start Strong Purchasing a trailerable sailboat for sale in the off-season is the most effective way to start sailing affordably with a quality boat. You secure a better price, have ample time for winter maintenance, and ensure you're ready to launch when spring arrives. Better Pricing Motivated sellers and reduced competition mean significant savings Quality Inspection Winter haul-out reveals the boat's true condition clearly Spring Ready Time for maintenance ensures a confident first season Don't wait until the spring rush—start your journey to becoming a confident sailor today. Thank You Contact Us For More Information Website: www.rickssmallsailboats.com Phone: 9545791289 Email: rick@rickssmallsailboats.com Location: Tallahassee, Florida 32317-8159