Buying a boat - documents & certificates

It depends on what boat it is.

Most dingies dont come with anything. Some classes you can get measurement certificates for. As for registering, there is no main databse but you can register with your class.

I always give and expect a receipt: I take along two copies so we can both sign and keep. Sold this boat (class, age, number, name), on this date, from this person (including address) to this person (including address) for this much money. Condition as advertised.

Other than that, for a 3000, you might get a builders certificate / rigging manual, or not. If you want to check that the person selling is really the owner, ask to see their insurance "so I know ho much I should insure it for and with whom".

I wouldn't expect any boat-specific documentation with a Laser 3000 - it was never sold with a measurement certificate since just like a Laser 1 it was a SMOD (Single Manufacturer One-Design).

Just take the usual receipt etc. precautions that the others have already advised.

Not heard of any stolen 3000's, and most sailing folk are fine (honour among thieves!), so I guess you'll be OK. Enjoy your new boat and look forward to hearing fom you on the 3k forum!