Did you know that around 100 million Americans go boating every year?
However, substantially fewer Americans actually own a boat. If you’re thinking about buying a boat, you’ve got many things to consider. A boat can provide days filled with fun and laughter, or be an unmanageable expense.
Before getting ahead of yourself and buying the first boat you like the look of, make sure you know what you’re doing. Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place.
We’re here with a few simple tips for buying a boat to make the journey flow smoothly.
- Size of Boat
The first decision to make is what size boat you need. Although you may want a cruise-liner, is it really necessary? Consider the following points to help you select a boat size:
- Will you do over-nights on the boat?
- Will you have passengers on the boat?
- Where will you store the boat?
- Will you take your boat on land?
- Cost
Next, think about your budget. Depending on their specifications, boats can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars. However, also think about the ongoing costs of owning a boat. You’ll need adequate finances for:
- The upfront price
- Docking or marina fees
- Optional boat club fees
- Insurance
- Fuel
- Maintenance
- Storage
- Boating gear and accessories
- New or Pre-owned
Deciding between new or pre-owned can be a difficult decision. On the one hand, new equals shiny and comes with a warranty. On the other hand, pre-owned will cost a fraction of the price.
With a new boat, you can rest assured that you can get it repaired and will be unlikely to pay for repairs unless they were your fault. However, if you settle for a pre-owned boat, you could invest the extra cash into doing your own maintenance and still have money to spare.
If you are wondering how to buy a boat second-hand, our top tip is to get an independent review of the boat engine. A faulty or worn-out engine is a common reason for selling up, and you won’t always be able to tell during a test drive.
You can find many more helpful tips on how to buy a pre-owned boat at: freedomboatclub.com/
- Location
Our final, and one of the more fun, boat buying tips, is choosing where to store your boat. Do you want to join a sociable boat club and dock it there? Or find a marina?
Alternatively, if size allows, you can tow your boat and take it straight home with you to its spot in the garage. Whatever you decide, don’t forget to think about where you’ll keep your boat during each season.
A Guide to Buying a Boat That Suits Your Needs
Now that you understand more about what to look for when buying a boat, it’s time to start shopping! Get ready for great days out on your own, with family, or with friends. Once you’ve got a boat, the world is your oyster, and the possibilities are endless.
Did you find this article helpful? If so, look at the rest of our content for more lifestyle and finance advice.