Buying A Boat
Boat Builders > Buying A Boat
Small Boats • Large Boats • Sailboats • Motorboats
Buying a boat is a lifestyle choice. Perhaps you have spent time on
or around boats, and you have finally decided to buy your own boat.
You want to go where landlubbers can't go. Many islands, as well as
lakes, rivers, bays, and oceans can only be explored by this method of
transportation. Perhaps you also wish to participate in fishing
tournaments, yacht clubs, or cruising activities.
Before buying a boat, consider your boating interests. What types of boating activities do you enjoy? Will you be sport fishing or commercial fishing? Do you participate in watersports activities such as wakeboarding or waterskiing? Do you prefer power boating or sailing? Will you live aboard your boat overnight, for a few days, or permanently? Do you intend to participate in cruises or boat races? Will these activities change in the future? How many people do you want to accommodate? How knowledgeable are you about operating your choice of boat? Will you need boating courses?
Consider also your mechanical skills, and the time and money you have available. How much do you want to spend on a boat loan, insurance, fuel, slip, and maintenance costs? There are many types of boats available. Some of the choices include powerboats, sailboats, power yachts, and sailing yachts. Other options include fishing boats and catamarans as well as small canoes, kayaks, and rowboats. Most boat hulls are made from fiberglass or wood, although smaller motorboats and rowboats may have aluminum hulls.
If you are new to boating, consider attending a basic boating course
offered by the United
States Power Squadrons, and start with a small boat, no more than 24
feet long. Even owning this size boat a short time will help you get
some valuable boating experience. If you're moving up to a larger
boat, take time to search out a reputable manufacturer or dealer.
Narrowing your choice to a make and model can be a formidable task.
A regional boat show may be a good starting point to learn about the
boating industry and market in your area. At these boat shows, you
can view multiple types of boats in one location and discuss your
boating interests with knowledgeable boat builders and boat dealers.
Climb aboard a number of boats and sit at the controls. Evaluate the
legroom, the convenience of the controls, and visibility from both seated
and standing positions. Check storage compartment size and engine
access, if applicable, as well as each boat's comfort and convenience
features. Look at the overall quality of fittings, hardware,
handrails, and windshields as well as wood joinery and deck surfaces.
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