Buying a Mooring

[tdblanchard]

Hey gang
I've been on the hunt for a slip or mooring to put a friends S2 7.9 and came across a person selling a "deep water mooring with a 10+ year lifespan".

I'm not familiar with the logistics behind buying a mooring, but the price fits for a good investment if this is legitimate.

Does anyone know what to look for in such a scenario?

Is this the equivalent of the ad I saw for the Bay Bridge for sale?

[sailingdog]

depends on what the local laws say.... some places you can own and sell a mooring... others you can't

[DrB]

Depends on where you are and where you want to put said mooring. You often just can't put a mooring in wherever you want.

If what I think you mean above is that you are buying the Mooring Tackle (Anchor/Block, chain, float, pennants, etc.), then that is all you are buying, not necessarily the space that the mooring is currently located. Also, no mooring (tackle) will last 10 years, especially if you put a boat on it. Even if you have a concrete block, that will eventually go.

I moor in Salem Harbor (MA) and you can't just put your own mooring in, even if you own the tackle. First you need to apply/get a mooring spot, then the mooring tackle has to be moved to said location by a approved mooring company. When I go to re-apply for my mooring spot each year, I have to show proof that the mooring was serviced by an approved mooring company before I can renew my permit. I pay $225 for service each year, which includes 2X inspection of the block, chains, pennants, and mooring float, and removal/install float/pennants/pick-up buoy each fall/spring. If something needs replacing, I pay for the hardware. The service fee covers the install. Top and bottom chains last about two three years in salt water, the float 5 years and the pennants 1 to 2 seasons.

You may want to ask the local harbormaster of where the mooring is currently what the rules are and also follow up with the local harbormaters/town government of what the regulations are for moorings in your area if you plan to move it. You will also need to get some to move/install it for you if you do plan to move it from it's present location.

DrB

[TrueBlue]

Just about every mooring "ownership" I've been associated with, has strict limitations regarding the transfer of said owner's "certificate". In the Narragansett bay area, I have yet to find one that can be legally transferred outside of the original owner's family. This is based upon some very long waiting lists for moorings - especially in popular harbors and coves.

What you actually own, is the right to place a mooring in a designated spot - determined by a local governing authority. You do not own the ground it is planted in. Additionally, (around these parts) the anchor, tackle, ball and pendant, must be purchased and maintained by the owner. Typically when a mooring certificate expires or is terminated, the harbormaster cuts the chain. A new anchor and gear is then installed.

The rules where you are located could be entirely different.