A boat is a significant investment, but for those that love water pursuits it can pay off. There are many options to choose from, and they each have their own benefits and downsides. The key is to purchase the right vessel, and this takes experience and knowledge. To help first-time boat buyers we have created a handy list on how to choose the right boat for your needs and the factors you need to look into when buying any vessel.
Ask Yourself Some Questions
First things first, you need to think about what you want the boat for, how many people will be using it and how often you will sail in it. Explore where you will be sailing and how versatile you want your vessel to be: will you be using it just for fishing, or do you want it to be a pleasure cruiser as well? Once you know exactly what you want the boat for it will be easier to narrow down your search and find the perfect vessel to suit your needs.
Set Yourself A Budget.
Make sure you are aware of how much money you are willing to spend on your new boat before you start your search. Don’t forget that cost will include storage, fuel and maintenance as well as the upfront purchase price. Depending on where you sail your boat and what you want to do with it there may be additional costs such as mooring charges or fishing licences. You need to make sure you budget properly and know how much your new boat will cost you over its lifetime, not just when you buy it. Make sure that your budget is reasonable but strict so that you make the most out of your investment.
Research Different Types Of Boat
There are many different types of boat available, and each serves a different function. Explore the different styles of boat on the market and find the one that you think would suit your needs. Some may be similar to one another but with small yet important differences, so make sure you understand how each boat can be used before you make your decision.
Consider If You Want A New Vessel Or A Second-Hand One
For those buying a cheaper boat such as a dingy, inflatable or kayak, then a new boat could be the best option as you will be able to enjoy a brand-new vessel for a low price. However, when buying a larger boat, it is often cheaper to buy a second-hand boat as new vessels are incredibly expensive and are often made to order. Look into both options before committing so that you know which is best for you and your budget.
Explore All Of The Options Available
Once you have narrowed down your search you need to start looking at vessels that are for sale. Boats can be advertised in a variety of ways, including on online platforms; for example there are a selection of fishing boats for sale online. You can also find them advertised on marinara noticeboards, in classified adverts in boating publications and even on social media, so make sure you explore all avenues before you start to contact sellers.
Ask The Right Questions
When making any significant investment it is important that you know what you are looking for and what questions you need to ask in order to get it. Before you visit the boat, read the advert and make a list of any additional information you need. If a seller is reluctant to give you more information then it is possible that they do not know enough about the boat or they are hiding something, so be suspicious and if in doubt look elsewhere.
Check The Boat Thoroughly
Ask to take the boat out for a test sail so that you can see how it handles and whether you enjoy using it. If you are making a more significant investment, consider putting the boat into a dry dock so that you can make a proper examination and find out if it has any damage that may affect the longevity and value of the vessel.
Make An Offer
Once you have found your perfect boat, make a reasonable offer and communicate with the seller throughout the process so that you both know how much you are willing to move when negotiating. You want to have a good relationship with the seller even after you buy their boat, so that you can ask them for advice and make the process of transferring ownership over easier.
We hope this guide has helped you on your quest to buy the perfect boat that will give you many happy years of service. Don’t forget to bookmark this site for more tips and tricks on living your best outdoor life.
