re: selling a boat re test drives?

Great question, and can be argued all day, even on boating sites.

Test drives cost money and time.

Most people agree that the test drive should be a functionality test. The terms should be agreed upon before the test drive, that is, the final $ number, if everything on the boat functions as it's supposed to. I'd tell him that a test drive is fine but he has to prove that he's serious about buying. Deposit, date with his wife, or whatever.

Ask him specifically what he's looking for in the test drive. Then you will know if you're boat should pass his test or not.

Test drives should not be to test out if "this is the right kind of boat" for the buyer. He needs to KNOW this is the right kind of boat by looking at it. You're not a boat dealer, giving free rides to tire kickers.

If he wants a mechanic to look at it, I'd say "That's fine, come up with a plan that suits my schedule and we'll make it happen." If you like the plan, do it and let the buyer pay for it unless there's some value in it for you.

What kinda boat you selling?