Whether you want a boat for weekend adventures or a one-time camping trip, there are many different elements to consider before purchasing a boat. Boating can be a great way for the family to enjoy time together, but you’ll want a safe and reliable boat to adventure with. Here are 10 things to consider before buying a boat.
1. There are Many Hidden Costs
People don’t realize the amount of money maintaining a boat requires until they finally have one. There are so many costs involved with owning a boat that you’ll need to become familiar with what you should pay for. For example, not only will you have to pay for the boat itself, but you’ll need to purchase boat insurance, have a quality trailer to haul it around on, have a safe storage space for it, and many other things.
2. Boats Require Maintenance
Whether you plan on using the boat a few times a year or multiple times a week, you’ll need to keep up with your maintenance. You’ll need to ensure the engine is always properly oiled, and paint is always kept up and you’ll want to think about potential repairs you’ll have to pay for in the future, like engine replacement or glass repair.
3. What Types of Water Do You Plan on Boating in?
It’s important to consider where you’re using your boat, as different water conditions require extra attention with maintenance and travel. For instance, if you plan on boating in salt water, then you’ll need to consider rust prevention for the undercoating. Also, you can think about the types of waves and water conditions you’ll encounter with your boat. If the water is super choppy, you’ll want a boat that’s able to handle those waves without easily losing control.
4. How Will You Store It?
Think about where you live in proximity to the water you’ll be using the boat on. If you live nearby, you should consider storing the boat at the marina along with other boats there. Some people don’t plan on using theirs often so they trailer it and store it at a unit closer to their homes. And others simply store it at their house, which is ideally the best option for ensuring safety if you have the space. You’ll need to think about the weather near you to help with your decision.
5. Do You Want a New One?
Another great consideration is whether you want to buy a new or used boat. New ones are more costly, but they come with a warranty and you can go boating without worrying about something bad happening. On the other hand, buying a used one saves you money. You’ll just have to consider the conditions of certain boats when browsing the marketplace, as there are many different boat dealers online and in catalogs.
6. Do You Have the Right Gear?
Making sure you have the right accessories for a boat is important to ensure your safety. You’ll need to make sure you have reliable access to fuel for your boating excursions as well as a good storage space and trailer for transportation. You’ll need a tarp or other covering to protect the boat against outside elements, and you’ll want to have life jackets and first aid kits for emergencies.
7. What Kind of Insurance Will You Need?
You’ll need to purchase insurance for your boat to make sure it’s always covered. Like home or car insurance, there are different plans you can choose from, like collision damage or comprehensive coverage. It’s best to contact a few different companies to find the best rates.
8. Become Knowledgeable About Boats
Considering the maintenance required to properly own a boat, you’ll want to think about who is going to repair the boat, should any damages occur. If you’re not very boat savvy and you’re simply looking for a fun adventure on the water, you should look around for boat repair services just in case you need one in the future. Start contacting services now so you have them handy for questions or issues eventually.
9. Think About the Size
You must consider how large of a boat you want. How many people do you plan on having on the boat and on what kind of waters will you use it? What kind of trips do you plan on taking with the boat? Lastly, you’ll want to think about what you’ll carry on the boat, like tugging jet skis or other water toys.
10. Make Yourself Known in the Boat Community
Lastly, it’s beneficial to know before purchasing a boat that the community is very large and diverse. There are many different people with boats for different uses, so making yourself known throughout the community can help you make friends and can even save you some time and effort in the long run. You can go to boating shows or join committees online to communicate with other boat owners.
Bottom Line
Overall, there are many different factors to think about before purchasing a boat. You’ll want a safe and reliable boat that can last you a lifetime, so make sure you keep these things in mind before making any purchases.
