How To Shop For A Boat

Shopping for a new or used boat need not be a stressful experience. Start the process by picturing your ideal boat. By seeing exactly what you want in a boat you can correctly choose the type, size and age of your new purchase. Do strict research on dealers, private parties or brokers to make a confident choice at buying time.

Check the Type

Are you interested in a cruising or fishing boat? Figure on your type by discerning how you intend to use the boat before making your buy. Think through your needs. Fishing buffs are likely to have different requirements versus people who wish to laze out on the bay while reading. You may be drawn to water sports.  Whether you want to entertain guests, go solo with some deep sea fishing or toe around buddies through waterskiing make your needs crystal clear. Develop a firm image in mind of what you most want in a boat to best see which style of boat will fit your needs.

Gauge Size

Now that you’ve decided the type of boat which meets your wants decide on size. One size does not fit all when it comes to boating. Larger boats tend to have more bathrooms, kitchens, cabins and overall features but this increased functionality comes at a price. You’ll have more systems to operate and understand and towing will be a much more difficult job for bigger boats. Bigger boats also suck up more gasoline. You’ll be spending more to purchase and maintain a larger boat so if you’re buying on any kind of budget you’re better off buying a smaller boat.

Smaller boats tend to cost less. You’ll spend less on gas, have fewer systems to learn and overall maintenance and upkeep will take up less of your time. Consider buying boats no larger than 22 feet if this is your first purchase. Even veteran boaters may be smart to buy a smaller boat if you don’t want to invest too much time, energy or money in your maritime buy.

Decide on Used Versus New

New boats usually pose fewer problems in terms of maintenance and repair. New boats are sold directly from dealers who purchased these boats from factories. If the dealer prepared new boats effectively you’ll be spared from extra prep work and will be able to operate the boat from the get go. Demand that the dealer supports you throughout the years of ownership. Do your homework on boat dealers to connect with trustworthy, knowledgeable sales people. One chief downside of buying news boats is the cost factor. You’ll likely need to make a large investment to buy the boat.

Used boats can be appealing to boaters buying on a budget. Private individuals, brokers and dealers may sell used boats. Ask around to do strict due diligence on anybody you’re interested in buying from. Hire a marine surveyor to look over the used boat.  Experts can discern whether you’re investing in a sound boat or money pit.

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