Boat Disposal Options
5 Ways to Dispose of Your Old Boat the Smart Way
Are You Looking for the Best Way to Say Goodbye to Your Old Vessel?
Here, you’ll discover five smart, responsible options for getting rid of your old boat, including selling, recycling, salvage yards, local programs, and donation. You’ll also see how donating to Goodwill Car Donations can provide meaningful benefits for you while creating lasting impact in your community.
Has your trusty vessel seen better days? Whether it has simply outgrown its purpose or time and tide have taken their toll, every boat eventually reaches a point when it needs to be disposed of.
If you’re wondering, “How do I properly get rid of my boat?” you’ll find answers here. Goodwill Car Donations is here to assist you in exploring sustainable, legal, and practical boat disposal options, such as the following:
- Sell or trade your boat.
If your boat still has some life left in it, selling or trading it could be the way to go. You’ll find individuals looking for a fixer-upper or a budget-friendly boat. Websites like Craigslist, eBay, or even your local marina’s bulletin board could be the perfect platforms to connect with potential buyers and find your boat a new captain.Keep in mind though that finding a buyer or a trade-in deal can take a lot of time. Plus, boats in poor condition may not fetch the price you want. - Recycle your boat.
You heard that right: Boats can be recycled! Various parts of your boat, such as metals, certain plastics, and even fiberglass, can be recycled or reused. This ensures that your boat’s legacy lives on while minimizing environmental harm. Companies specializing in boat recycling are just a Google search away. Recycling your boat is not just about bidding it farewell; it’s also about honoring its memory.It’s important to note that recycling might incur costs, which can vary depending on your boat’s size and condition. - Consider boat salvage yards.
Another good option for disposal is a boat salvage yard. Here, professionals take apart your boat, save the parts that can be reused, and recycle the rest responsibly. It’s like organ donation, but for boats! This choice helps cut down on waste and can also put some money back in your pocket by giving you a fair price for the salvaged parts, making the process a little easier financially. - Explore municipal disposal programs.
Check with your local city or county offices to see if they have programs for large item disposal or recycling. Some areas include boat disposal as part of these programs, often at little to no cost to you. - Donate your boat.
Have you considered donating to charity? Numerous organizations accept boat donations, allowing you to support a mission by contributing to essential research, education, or community programs. Moreover, you may be eligible for a tax deduction, creating a win-win situation.
When the time comes to part ways with your boat, make sure you do so responsibly. Whether you choose to recycle, donate, sell, or take advantage of a municipal program, you’re doing your part for our planet and the boating community.
Boat disposal doesn’t have to be an overwhelming process. With some research and determination, you can find a solution that is practical, responsible, and even sentimental. After all, every sailor knows the value of leaving the seas a little better than they found them.
What Risks Should You Avoid When Getting Rid of a Boat?
When it’s time to part with your boat, avoid cutting corners that could cost you later. Selling without proper paperwork can lead to liability issues, and abandoning your vessel could result in fines. Be cautious of buyers or programs that seem unreliable or unlicensed. Choosing a reputable option like donation ensures your boat is handled legally and responsibly, giving you peace of mind while helping others in the process.
What Signs Show It’s Time to Retire Your Boat?
Your boat may be ready for retirement if repair costs outweigh its value or if you constantly struggle with breakdowns that keep it docked more than used. Safety concerns like soft spots in the deck, engine problems, or outdated electrical systems are also red flags. When boating becomes stressful instead of enjoyable, it’s often time to move on. Disposing of your boat responsibly lets you close this chapter positively.
What Environmental Issues Come With Improper Boat Disposal?
Improper boat disposal can create serious environmental damage. Fuel, oil, and coolant left in the vessel can leak into soil and waterways, harming wildlife and contaminating water supplies. Fiberglass hulls and other non-biodegradable materials can sit in landfills for decades. Abandoned boats may also release hazardous metals like lead or copper into the environment. By choosing responsible disposal or donation, you prevent pollution and protect your local ecosystem for future generations.
Like the Sound of Boat Donation?
If you like the idea of using your old vessel to share with those in need while receiving a tax deduction, consider donating it to Goodwill Car Donations. By doing so, you’ll transform it into a life-enhancing tool for members of your community who are facing struggles, offering them opportunities to improve their lives.
We will auction your vessel to generate funds for the organizations serving your area. Like us, these IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits are committed to assisting Americans who face disabilities, lack of education or job experience, or other challenges, such as former incarceration or financial hardship.
Goodwill Car Donations partners with organizations to use the funding to contribute to charity, providing beneficiaries with job and skills training, employment opportunities, scholarships, livelihood assistance, disability benefits, family support, educational services, financial assistance, and other essential support services.
As a donor, you will be entitled to claim a top tax write-off in the next tax season. We’ll promptly mail you the 100% tax-deductible sales receipt of your boat after its sale.
You’ll benefit from our free hauling service that will collect your boat wherever it’s moored or stored in the United States. You won’t pay a penny. Best of all, you’ll find great satisfaction when you donate to a cause that will benefit your entire community.
You can donate more than boats to our donation program. We accept almost all types of vehicles, including those that are barely running. Visit this page for a comprehensive list of vehicles that we are happy to take.
If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to tell them to us here or call us at 866-233-8586. For more information on our donation program, including our quick and convenient donation process, head over to our FAQs page.
Let’s Uplift Lives Together!
By teaming up with Goodwill Car Donations, you’ll be able to touch so many lives in your area. Your boat donation can help them overcome their problems and empower them to succeed in life. Start the process now by dialing 866-233-8586 or filling out our online donation form!
Last Updated: September 25th, 2025