Buy now, be ready for spring: Why autumn is the smartest time to buy or upgrade your boat

As the boating season winds down and boats are lifted for their winter rest, many assume it’s time to press pause on their boating plans. But here’s a little insider tip: Autumn and early winter can be the smartest months to buy or upgrade your boat.

At Val Wyatt Marine, we’ve seen it time and again — those who act at the end of the season are the ones confidently cruising at the start of Spring, making the most of their new boat from day one.

Here’s why Autumn is the ideal time to take the plunge:

1. Beat the Spring Rush

By March and April, demand for both new and pre-owned boats surges. Stock moves fast, production slots fill up, and delivery times stretch out. Buying in Autumn means:

• You get first pick of available models — often with a choice of stock boats available immediately.
• You avoid the seasonal scramble and secure the exact specification, colour, and features you want.

2. Secure Priority Build Slots

Autumn is when build schedules are locked in with our trusted partners — Interboat, Intercruiser, Corsiva, and Haines. By reserving your build now, you’ll:

• Guarantee a delivery date that for the 2026 season.
• Have time to plan your first Spring voyage with confidence.

3. Personalise and Prepare at Your Own Pace

Buying at the end of the season gives you breathing space to get every detail just right. With our expert team by your side, you can:

• Finalise custom choices like upholstery, canopy, and hull colour.
• Add optional extras — bow thrusters, teak decks, upgraded sound systems and a host of other personalisation’s.
• Arrange insurance, mooring, and handover training without the pressure of a looming deadline.

Come Spring, your boat will be ready and waiting — tailored to you and fully prepared for launch. 

4. Seamless Storage, Servicing and Handover

We offer a complete end-to-end service from purchase to launch, all from our independent marinas on the River Thames and our Chichester Harbour office. If you buy now, we’ll:

• Support you to arrange winter storage.
• Guide you on any servicing or commissioning work.
• Ensure your boat is shipshape and ready to go when the season begins.

It’s a smooth, stress-free process that lets you focus on enjoying the water.

5. Discover Pre-Owned Gems

Autumn is also prime time for pre-owned opportunities. Many owners upgrade or part-exchange now, meaning:

• You’ll find some of the best selections of well-maintained boats at competitive prices.
• If you’ve been eyeing a particular Corsiva, Interboat or Haines model, this could be your moment — before Spring buyers snap them up.

Picture This…

It’s a crisp, sunny morning in April. The river is calm. You cast off for your first outing of the season, knowing you planned ahead and made the most of the quieter months.

Whether you’re dreaming of a new Corsiva tender, an elegant Interboat sloop, a stylish Intercruiser, or a spacious Haines motor cruiser — Autumn is the time to start.

Our team is here to guide you every step of the way — from choosing the right model to arranging winter storage and Spring handover.

Get in touch today to talk about your boating plans and secure your spot for Spring 2026. Visit us in Wargrave or Chichester to explore our current stock and upcoming arrivals.