What to Look for When Buying a Boat
Did you know that, according to Business Wire, there were around 280,000 boat units sold in the year 2019? This was almost as high as boat sales were in 2018 when they were at an 11-year high. Sales that drove this momentum included cruisers, wake sports boats, and personal watercraft.
If you're thinking of taking part in these sales and buying a boat, you're likely excited about the prospect of going out and enjoying your new boat.
However, if you aren't sure where to get started with your search, this can be stressful and overwhelming. With so many options, how can you choose the best boat for you?
The following guide covers what to look for when buying a boat, so you can find the right fit and enjoy it with friends and family.
The Right Price
When you buy a boat, one of the things you have to think about is whether the price is affordable for you. When calculating this amount, think about how much you would be paying in your monthly payments, or in one big payment if you plan on buying it outright.
However, don't stop there. Other costs to consider include maintenance, fuel, marina and docking fees, boat insurance, accessories, gear and winter storage.
By including these costs in your budget, you'll get a better idea of how much money you have to purchase a boat, so you can determine which boats will fit into your budget.
Whether It's Used or New
Another thing to look for when buying a boat is whether it's used or new. Used boats will often be cheaper when you come across them in a "boat for sale" advertisement. While this can be good for your wallet, it might be worth looking into buying a new boat.
This is because a new boat will come with a warranty. So if there are any issues, you can get them fixed and go back to enjoying your boat.
When making this decision, think about whether you want to spend less now or potentially spend less later.
You can also search for used boats that have warranties. While this might not always be available, you might be fortunate and find one.
Once you've decided on whether you prefer a used or new boat, you'll have a better idea of what you're looking for when searching for the right boat.
The Right Size
You'll also have to think about what size you want your new boat to be. To determine this, you have to think about factors related to your use of the boat. For example, you can think about what body of water type you plan on operating your boat in primarily.
Other factors you should consider include whether you think you'll be sleeping on your boat, whether you'll keep it at a marina or trailer it and how many passengers you plan to have on the boat.
Additionally, you should consider whether you plan to pull tubers or skiers with your boat.
Once you've considered all this, you'll have a better idea of what size boat you want. This will help you narrow down the options available to you.
Positive Praise on Forums
As you start researching different boat options, it's a good idea to get online and visit boat aficionado forums. Here, you can learn more about the boats you're thinking of buying. Those that have positive praise from boat experts are likely to be a better choice.
Additionally, you might learn about boats you haven't heard of on these forums. You can also ask questions about boats. For example, ask about what their best features are and what the pros and cons of buying certain boats are.
The Right Distance
When you're looking at boats, it can help to narrow down your search so that the process is less overwhelming and complicated. One of the best ways you can do this is to determine how far you're willing to travel to check out the boat and buy it.
Think about how many hours and miles you're willing to travel. Then, you can apply this distance to search filters when you're looking for boats that are for sale online.
Positive Boat Inspections
Once you've narrowed down your search, you'll start looking at boats in person and deciding which ones you're most interested in. At this point, you should start with the inspection process. First, inspect it yourself, walking around it and inspecting it physically.
Check condition before you commit
Boat
A quick test with a scuff eraser or hull cleaner during inspection reveals how well the gel coat and hull have held up, giving you a clearer picture of the boat's true condition before you sign anything.
Then, go out with the boat on the water, taking it for a test drive to ensure that it's seaworthy.
After this, you should have a marine surveyor complete an inspection. They'll know what issues to watch out for when completing their inspection so that you won't end up making a mistake when you buy your new boat.
You should also ask the seller questions about their boat, relating to the number of hours that are on the engine, whether they're the original owner, how often the boat's been serviced, and whether the warranty is transferable.
Additionally, ask them if they've experienced any problems with their boat, and why it is they're selling.
By getting all this information from the owner and inspections, you can feel more sure about your new boat purchase.
After Buying a Boat
Now that you know what to look for when buying a boat, you might start your search. But what about what happens after buying a boat? There are other considerations you have to think about, such as boat insurance and boat accessories.
Get your new boat ready
Polish & Restore Kit
After taking ownership, a polish and restore kit or interior vinyl protectant helps bring the boat back to its best, protecting surfaces and making it look the part from day one.
For boat accessories, Better Boat carries boat wash, boating gifts for men, boat cleaner, epoxy resin, hull cleaner and boat soap.
To learn more about the many boat products available, browse all Better Boat products.
