Buying a Boat

If you’re thinking of buying a boat, you’re on the right track towards having fun-filled adventures in the water. Two thirds of the earth’s surface is covered by water, which means your new boat will allow you to visit and see more of this wonderful planet than a car would. Unlike cars, boats are not merely for transportation. The decision to buy a boat is a lifestyle choice, and one that should be approached with eyes wide open to avoid pitfalls associated with boat-buying.

There are several questions you need to ask yourself before committing yourself to a boat purchase. Answering these questions carefully will enable you to determine which boat is best for you. So, here you go…

What’s your type?

The first thing you must do is determine what type of boat will suit your needs, and this is an answer that you will arrive at by deciding what it is you intend to use the boat for. There are three main boating activities, and they are fishing, cruising and watersports. While you can find boats that are used for all three activities, you might want to get a boat that is primarily intended for a specific activity, especially if you wish to specialize in that activity.

Does size matter?

Yes, it does, especially if this is your first boat. It is advisable to start small when buying boats, because bigger boats tend to have more systems to understand and operate, and definitely cost more. However, you must ensure that the boat you choose can safely accommodate the number of people you wish to have onboard.

New vs used?

Buying a new boat has its advantages, and so does buying a used boat. One of the great things about buying a used boat is that you will usually get it at a cheaper price than you would a new boat. If you do decide to buy a used boat, it is wise to get a marine surveyor who will go over the boat carefully before you make the purchase.

Which make and model is best?

Usually, this will be determined by the experience you are looking to get when you cruise your boat in the water, or head out fishing. That being said, when making comparisons between different makes and models, there are several things that are usually considered. These include beam, weight, draft, ideal cruising speed, noise levels, equipment, brand ratings, and so on.

Getting back to school

It is one thing to buy a boat, and another to get it out there in the water. There are rules that must be followed, and you must know how to handle the wind, waves, tides and currents. If you are a bit rusty on these, ensure you get adequate instruction before you take your boat out there in sea. Most states require that you pass an approved boating course before you can be issued a safe boating certificate that allows you to be in the water.

Buying a boat is the 2^nd largest investment most people make, and if you’re thinking of going down this route, you must be prepared to do your homework.

Posted By: Stowaway Marine http://stowawaymarine.net