Transactions

The boating sector with its six- or seven-figure prices is no exception to the rule. Recent examples unfortunately show that we all need to be more careful. Exchanges are intercepted, email addresses are falsified, bank details are subtly altered and your transfer arrives at an exotic bank instead of paying for the multihull of your dreams. A few messages reassure both buyer and seller until the transaction becomes irreversible and you find yourself without the boat you have paid for! So, professionals and private individuals alike, beware of a last-minute change of bank or contact person. Don't compromise, regardless of the language barrier, get help if necessary, and don't even wait until you have doubts. All major transfers must be subject to prior verification, by telephone, of the accuracy of the bank details between buyer and seller, whether private or professional. A forewarned reader is forearmed…