Boat Buying Tips:

The happiest boat buyers do their homework before they buy.  You want to be sure that the boat you’re purchasing will serve your purposes. Some questions to consider: 

What are your family’s needs? Will you want to sleep aboard your boat, or will you stay in a hotel nearby?  Do you want to fish, water-ski, or go cruising?  Will you be happy with a large boat kept in one marina for the season? Or, do you want the freedom to explore different boating areas with a smaller boat that can be trailered?  Consider your budget.   This includes not just the purchase price but the cost to properly operate, maintain and store your boat so that it stays in great condition and retains its value.

Where will you be boating? Make sure that the design of your boat will accommodate the waters where you will be boating.  Some boats are designed for offshore use, and can handle waves with no problem, while others are suitable for a quiet lake or bay. Be sure to check the “draft” or how much water depth the boat will need to operate.  Check manufacturer’s sites and boating reviews for specifications and to learn more about the boat you are considering.

And, last, but most importantly, do you have the boating experience to match the skills needed to operate the boat you want to buy?  Make sure before you leave port that you’ve had the proper boating safety training.