Costs Of Owning A Boat
Normally, the prices for new boats will vary
depending on the size and make, although many dealers
and manufacturers will be willing to sell you
one for less than the cost of a new car payment.
Financing your boat
Financing your boat is just like financing a new
car. Similar to car and home loans, loans for
boats have became even easier and more flexible in
recent years. The terms will generally range from
two to 20 years. To get the most from financing,
you should compare rates online.
Outfitting
All new boats are offered with a variety of options
and accessories. When you are pricing boats, make
sure you factor in the costs of electronics,
accessories, and water toys - then buy what's
appropriate for your boat type and size.
Most modern marine electronics are very reliable,
loaded with features, and more affordable than ever
before. Today's accessories can make boat trips
more fun, safer, and easier than you ever thought
possible.
Operating costs
Boating isn't like driving, as you aren't using
gas all the time. If you fish or swim with your
boat, your actually not using the motor at all. If
you happen to own a sailboat, the motor is used
less.
Most boats today are less than 21 feet in length.
All of these boats don't require a lot of gas, with
most using less than 50 gallons of gas per season.
Maintenance
Simply washing down your boat and trailer with
fresh water after each use will keep them covered
between boat trips. If you don't have the time
to do it yourself, you can always hire a professional.
Insurance
The insurance for boats will vary by length and type.
Therefore, you should consult your insurance agent for
quotes, or simply shop online.
Custom Built Boats
Almost all boats are constructed on a production
basis, as this is the most efficient means of
production. There's only one set of molds and many
boats being built from the mold, reducing the cost
of tooling per boat. Normally, there are a limited
number of options to make assembly line production
more efficient in terms of cost.
Leaving the ranks of production boats, there are
several types of custom construction. There are
many boats built with a limited budget, which is
normally by amateurs. If you don't want to build
the boat yourself, the next level available is
what sailors call "semi custom" boats.
These semi customs are normally built by small or
mid sized shops out of one set of molds so the
hull and decks could end up being identical. The
builders will however, allow the owner to pick
out the interior and other options.
The true custom built boat, or one of a kind boat,
is specifically designed and built from scratch
for a single customer with an unlimited budget. A
true custom boat is a one on one project, and
can get very expensive before you know it.
Before you decide to go out and buy a custom boat,
you should give the used market another look. Those
who have built custom or even semi custom boats
in the past do put them on the market for sale at
some point or another.
This is a much less expensive way to go, simply
because you won't be paying a professional to design
the boat from scratch. You can find used boats that
offer one of kind features and options, all you have
to do is look around.
Financing A Boat
Once you decide to buy a boat, you'll find yourself
wondering how you are going to pay for it. This
type of purchase will involve some type of financing,
whether it's a credit line through the home, an
unsecured loan, or a boat line. Choosing the right
financing source can be just as important as
choosing the right boat.
When choosing a source of financing, there are
several things to consider. The first factor is
how long you plan to keep the boat. If you are
buying a first boat, it'll make more sense to find
a loan that will be flexible enough for an early
payoff via private party or even a trade in.
If you are purchasing the boat of your dreams, you
should expect to have it financed for a long time
which makes it important to get a fixed rate loan
with terms that allow for a low monthly payment.
Another factor you'll need to consider is the
down payment. Most lenders or dealers would like
to see at least ten percent down. Zero down
payments do exist for those with good enough
credit. Normally, the down payment doesn't
significantly change the monthly payment for your
boat loan.
Choosing the right type of boat loan is a very
important part of the entire buying process. You
can start with a boat finance brokerage, which
will show you how each one of the available options
fit into your profile.
Doing this will give you the knowledge and ability
you need to find the loan that best fits you and
your budget. The, you can concentrate on the
important things - taking your new boat out on the
water.
Finding The Perfect Boat
Finding the perfect boat is an undertaking for an
experienced boater. For the first time boater, it
can be a very difficult task to accomplish. To
help you with your quest for the perfect boat,
there are a few things you should know.
Deciding what's important
Choosing the right boat is all about knowing what's
really important to you. You need to decide whether
you'll be using the boat for your own private use,
fishing, or cruising. You should also consider your
families feelings, as buying a boat for your own
personal needs without consulting your family will
probably lead to disappointing experiences or less
time spent on the water.
Types of boats
Typically, boats will fall into five categories -
fishing boats, power boats, sailboats, personal
watercraft, and self powered boats. To help you
find the perfect boat, we'll take a look at what
each one offers.
Fishing boats
The designs for fishing boats will vary quite a
bit, as are the places you can use them. The boats
that are meant for shallow waters of inland lakes
and rivers aren't the same boats meant for deep
seas and great lakes. There are many different
designs, even boats that serve no other purpose
besides fishing.
These types of boats normally have stowage and
holders for bait, fishing poles, tackle, and
even special tanks to hold live fish. Other types
of fishing only boats feature an open platform
where anglers can fight fish from all sides of
the boat.
Power boats
Power boats are the most popular boats sold. The
designs with power boats are as varied as their
uses. Boats with seating in the front are
called bowriders, which are mainly used for towing
skiers or rafts. Most boats can also be used for
fishing as well. If you want to do both,
there are ski and fish combinations available.
Sailboats
When you first learn to pilot a sailboat, it can
be very challenging, although very rewarding as
well. A sailboat requires more skill and
knowledge to operate than boats, although they
are considered more rewarding once mastered.
With all available sailboats, the single masted
sloop is the most popular design. For those who
only boat on occasion, catboats, daysailers, and
dinghys are small and easily trailerable.
When you finally decide on the perfect boat for
you, look at what each one offers and how you
plan to use it. The perfect boat for you is
out there, all you have do is find the one that
best matches your needs.
Getting Started With Boating
One of the best things about boating is the fact
that there are many boats designed for many
different activities. For the majority of boaters,
a general purpose craft that serves as a fish, ski,
and picnic boat is ideal.
To help you narrow down your search, ask yourself
how you plan to use the boat. Fishing, cruising,
water skiing, watersports, racing, or a bit of
everything is what you should be wondering. There
is a boat out there for you, all you have to do is
find it.
Finding the right size
Finding the right size of boat depends on how many
people you'll have boating with you and where you
plan to go. All new boats have an "NMMA capacity
plate" that wil you how many people you can safely
have on the boat at a time. If you plan to use
a trailer, you shouldn't get a boat bigger than
26 feet in length.
Power needs
Those who plan to water ski will need more power
while those planning to fish will need less. The
boaters of today will also be able to choose from
new engines that are more efficient in fuel and
very friendly to the environment as well.
Boat costs
There are boats for every type of budgets. Many
new boat owners are very surprised to find that they
can get their dream boat for much less than they
ever expected. You can get new or used boats at
a reputable dealership with financing, taking
advantage of low monthly payments.
Boating can be a lot of fun, as you long as you
don't go overboard when you first begin. There is
a lot to know about boats, costs, and types, which
is something you'll learn over the years. Always
have fun - and you'll enjoy boating for many, many
years.
How To Test A Boat
If you think you've found the boat of your dreams,
it's time to test it. Testing your boat is more
than just taking it for a test drive around the
harbor. You should look at everything closely, as
a professional boat tester would.
Sometimes, it can be hard to tell a top quality boat
from one that may have problems later on. To an
untrained eye, both can look good on the surface.
When you start to break everything down and give it
a careful inspection, you'll be able to tell a great
boat from a not-so-great boat.
By opening up all doors and access plates, you can
get great insight on the the construction of the
boat. You should also stick your head into the
anchor locker of any boat you are considering to
buy, as if they've cut any corners you'll normally
be able to see it here.
Looking into the anchor locker also lets you look
at the hull to deck joint. If there is light
coming from through, or if the fiberglass around
the joint can be seen through, it normally means
the boat has poor construction.
When you buy a boat, you should put it through a
rigorous visual inspection. It's also equally
important to conduct a vigorous test on the water
as well. A private seller or dealer will
normally want to stack the deck, ensuring that
the boat will perform well.
Normally, this involves a near empty gas tank,
no gear or extra passengers, and keeping the
boat in sheltered water. Therefore, it's up to
you to insist on a more realistic test. Think
of the test as an actual day out on the water,
and you'll find out if the boat is indeed something
you should spend your money on.
During your water testing, you should determine
if the boat performs well and meets all of your
expectations. You should determine if the boat
travels at the right speeds, and whether or not it
is capable of doing everything that you plan to
do with it after you buy it.
When test driving the boat, you should put it
through all paces in open water, cutting waves at
all angles. If you plan to test a saltwater boat,
you should bring along a 5 gallon bucket and try
throwing some water onboard. Any boat you plan
to use offshore should quickly shed water through
the scuppers. Some boats will pool water in the
bow and drain slowly - which can be very dangerous
in rough waters.
If a seller or dealer balks at the mention of any
requests you have, simply find yourself another
dealer or another boat. There are plenty of great
quality boats available, ranging in prices. Make
sure to check everything very carefully before
you make any decisions.
Inspecting Your New Boat
The viewing, or inspecting your boat is a very
important part of the buying process. Inspecting
will allow you to see what you are buying before
you pay any money.
You may want to use a surveyor to do this, as they
will perform a very detailed inspection of the
boat you are interested in. You can be present
if you like, as this will give you the chance to
ask questions if you like.
Although using a surveyor is the best way to do
an inspection, you can do it yourself if you are
experienced and confident enough. There are many
parts of the boat to inspect, which makes it
nearly impossible for beginners.
If you inspect yourself, make sure you look at
the bottom of the hull, the interior, the control
cables, electrical system, pumps, and be sure
that everything is in working order. If the boat
has been well maintained, you shouldn't have a
problem looking everything over.
The engine should also be checked, as it is very
important to the boat. If you don't know a lot
about boat engines or engines in general, you
should get a mechanic to look over it for you. You
may want to do this anyway, as the engine can
be very tough to inspect.
If everything is up to par, it's time to take a
test drive. Before you fire up the engine, check
to see if it's already warm. If the engine has
trouble starting or smokes when cold, the seller
could have warmed up the engine prior to you
arriving to disguise any problems.
Check for oil leaks as well, checking the bilges
at the start and end of the test drive. When
moving around, see how the boat performs. You
should experiment with hitting the waves from
different angles, looking for any type of roll
or pitch.
Make sure you also test that all the instruments
are working correctly, then run the engine for a
period of time to see if it overheats.
If you are buying a sail boat, put the sails up
and see how the boat performs under wind pressure
alone. Also, make sure you examine the mast and
how the boat rigs under load.
If the boat you are planning to buy doesn't pass
any of your tests, don't rule it out just yet.
If you are willing to put both time and money into
making things work, you can use any problems as
bargaining tools to try and get a lower price on
the boat.
New Or Used Boat
Similiar to cars, there are a few pros and cons to
new and used boats. Even though there are hundreds
of used boats available, you should look at the newer
ones first.
New boats
With new boats, you'll know each and every piece of
history with the boat and the motor. If something
happens to go wrong, you'll have a warranty to fall
back on, so you don't have to focus on restoring or
repairing your new boat. This way, you can get out
in the water immediately.
When you finance a new boat, you can usually get a
much better interest rate as well. By shopping new
you'll also get a better idea as to which type of
boat is best for you and your family. Just like a
car, the depreciation value is the highest in the
first season of use.
Used boats
Used boats can be a great option, especially for
those who don't know what they want to do with the
boat, or those with tight budgets. Even though you
may be planning to buy a new boat, it's always a
good idea to shop new ones first.
Attending boat shows are a great way to see the
boats that are out there, helping you to get an idea
of what you want. You can look at the many used
boats that are there, then narrow your list down as
to what type of used boat you prefer.
Whether you plan to shop for your used boat online,
through the newspaper, or by visiting one of the local
boat dealerships, make sure you get a marine survey
of the boat before you make the purchase. A marine
survey may be a bit expensive, although it's money
well spent.
Often times, structural defects or mechanical
problems with used boats that weren't cared for
properly will be quite difficult to detect. A marine
survey is similiar to a home inspection, as the
surveyor will inspect every inch of the boat, from
the engine to the electrical system and the hull to
the steering wheel.
Depending on the results you receive, you can use the
results to get a lower price, or just stop the deal
altogether if the results are that bad. The marine
survey is the smartest way to buy a used boat, as
it can save you a lot of time, headache, and even
money - which makes it well worth it.
Reasons To Buy A Boat
Many studies have shown, and many people already know
that being with friends and family, relaxing in the
outdoors and being close to nature are the best reasons
to buy a boat and spend time on the water. Your family
doesn't need to spend a forture or travel to a theme
park to have an experience that everyone will enjoy.
Boating is family
If you've ever felt that your family is going in
different directions, a boat can help to bring things
back together. When you spend time with your family
on a boat, it's all quality time. No matter if you're
fishing, tubing, swimming, or just cruising, your
doing it together - as a family.
There are no distractions on the water, so you can
focus your attention on each other. You can share
stories, laugh, have conversations, or reconnect and
create all new memories together. To put it in simple
terms, a boat will make life much better.
Boating helps you relax
Being on a boat makes it easy to relax. There are no
faxes, computers, or interruptions on a boat. You
have the open water, fresh air, the warm sun, and
adventure that you won't be able to find anywhere else.
With a boat, a great getwaway is all but a weekend
away. You may be a few miles from home in reality,
although you'll feel like your a million miles away.
Having fun
On a boat, the fun will never stop. There are always
things to do, places to see, fish to catch, and new
memories to create. Buying a boat is easy to do,
even if you are on a budget. If your ready to start a
new journey in life - a boat is something you and your
family simply must have.
Reasons To Buy A Boat
Many studies have shown, and many people already know
that being with friends and family, relaxing in the
outdoors and being close to nature are the best reasons
to buy a boat and spend time on the water. Your family
doesn't need to spend a forture or travel to a theme
park to have an experience that everyone will enjoy.
Boating is family
If you've ever felt that your family is going in
different directions, a boat can help to bring things
back together. When you spend time with your family
on a boat, it's all quality time. No matter if you're
fishing, tubing, swimming, or just cruising, your
doing it together - as a family.
There are no distractions on the water, so you can
focus your attention on each other. You can share
stories, laugh, have conversations, or reconnect and
create all new memories together. To put it in simple
terms, a boat will make life much better.
Boating helps you relax
Being on a boat makes it easy to relax. There are no
faxes, computers, or interruptions on a boat. You
have the open water, fresh air, the warm sun, and
adventure that you won't be able to find anywhere else.
With a boat, a great getwaway is all but a weekend
away. You may be a few miles from home in reality,
although you'll feel like your a million miles away.
Having fun
On a boat, the fun will never stop. There are always
things to do, places to see, fish to catch, and new
memories to create. Buying a boat is easy to do,
even if you are on a budget. If your ready to start a
new journey in life - a boat is something you and your
family simply must have.
Storing Your Boat
One of the keys to owning a boat is the question of
where to keep it when you aren't using it. Your
budget, convenience, and availability are all keys
that should be talked about.
Trailering
There's no less expensive way to store a boat than
on a trailer in your driveway or yard. A trailer
offers you the advantages of taking your boat into
different areas of water, taking your boat out
whenver you like, or just saving fees on your winter
storage. Before you look into a trailer, make sure
that your vehicle has the towing capacity for your
boat and the equipment you need.
Rack storage
For smaller boats, a great alternative to storage is
rack storage, or dry stacks. Typical rack storage
facilities will keep your boat in a covered shed
filled with plenty of room. Simply call the facility
before you want to use the boat and they will
retrieve it for you. When you are finished boating,
simply bring it back, tie it up, and they will
return it to the storage area for you.
Marina advantage
If your a boat owner craving convenience, a marina
slip is just what you need. Simply drive your family
to the marina, get in the boat, and go. Rates will
vary from state to state, although most offer you
several other perks as well.
Buying your slip
In some areas, you can actually buy a permanent slip
at a marina. This can be great to have in high
demand areas, as it guarantees you a slip at the
marina whenever you need to store your boat. The
purchased slip is a long term asset, and is good
for as long as you own a boat.
Towing And Trailering
A trailer can add a new dimension to the sense of
freedom associated with boating. Once you have a
trailer, you're pretty much free to boat anywhere
you decide, lakes, rivers, or inlets. A trailer
allows you to explore your area, and is also the
most affordable way to store your boat.
Starting out
If you've never owned or trailer or trailered a boat
before, there are several things you should know
and consider. The first thing is the towing capacity
of your truck, car, or SUV. If you don't know, you
can easily find the information in your owner's
manual.
Normally, small cars or family sedans aren't suitable
for towing, although small boats may not be a problem,
if you have the proper towing equipment installed on
the car. Most standard trucks or SUV's can tow
boats up to 25 feet, although you'll need to check
the owner's manual to be sure.
Weighing in
In your boat's owners manual, you'll find the dry
weight of your boat. The dry weight is the weight
of the boat without fuel or gear. Always make sure
you assess your vehicle's towing capacity, and add
a few hundred pounds to the dry weight to cover
these types of extras.
Muscle and power
As the weight, length, and beam of a boat increases,
so does the power needed to retrieve and launch it.
Smaller boats may be easier for one person to handle,
although larger boats will require more than one
person. If you need extra help, don't be afraid to
ask for it - as trailer boaters are always ready to
give you a hand if you need it.
Types Of Boats Available
There are many boats out there on the market, with
something for everyone. If you are new to boating,
selecting the right boat can be hard. There are
boats for every purpose on the water, all you have
to do is find the one for you.
To help you in your quest, we'll go over the several
types of boats available. This way, you'll know
the differences when you head out to buy one of
your own.
1. Vessel
The vessel is the most common name for a boat, as
it's the description used or capable of being used
on the water. Basically, it's another name used for
a boat or anything capable of being on the water.
2. Power boat
A power boat is any boat or vessel that's propelled
by machinery. Fishing boats are great examples,
as they are powered by motors or engines.
3. Houseboat
A houseboat is fitted for use as a living vessel or
for leisurely cruising. Normally, a houseboat will
include living accomodations such as sleeping
quarters, kitchen facilities, and even a full bath.
The cruising models are normally propelled by
power.
4. Sailboat
A sailboat is any boat that's under sail along with
no mechanical means of propulsion. The modern
sailboats range from one person boats to luxury
yachts that can accomodate several people. They
are divided into three basic types:
1. Daysailer - This is a small boat that's
designed for comfortable sailing without sleeping
accomodations. It offers a roomy cockpit and can
also contain an outboard auxillary engine as well.
2. Cruiser - Cruisers are medium sized or
large boats that contain a cabin with sleeping
quarters, toilet, food area, and usually an auxillary
engine that's built inside.
3. Racer - Racers are boats built for speed
and ease of handling - normally at the expense of
comfort.
5. Zodiac
The Zodiac brand of high performance aluminum boats
are some of the most popular in the entire boating
industry. These boats are constructed with a
conventional rigid hull with increased buoyancy and
stability. The deep V hulls offered by these boats
are made to take any weather. They are well known
for their prowess and are used all over the world
for commercial search and rescue operations.
6. Catamaran
These boats come with twin hulls. They provide
safety, comfort, speed, and stability that's
unmatched by single hulled boats. Popular with
boating, they offer you a new twist to hitting
the water.
Types Of Boat Sellers
Below, you'll find many people who sell boats, and
how to go about dealing with them:
Private sellers looking to upgrade
These sellers are those who have outgrown their current
boat and are looking to buy something bigger. Normally,
they are knowledgeable and take care of their boats.
They are also less than likely to give you a
great deal, as they need the money for their next
boat. They are also likely to strip the boat of
electronics and accessories, as they need them for
their next boat.
Private sellers wanting out
These types of sellers decide to sell their boat
because they don't use it much. Even though it may
sound great because the boat may have sat for a long
time, this is actually a bad thing. When a boat
sits for a long period of time, the boots can crack,
batteries can dry up, and many other things can happen.
Sellers who want out may not have maintained their
boat well, as they didn't have a passion for it. You
can get a good deal with these sellers, although
you should be prepared to make some repairs after
you make the purchase.
Forced sales
Sometimes, you are able to find an experienced boater
who is selling due to an injury or disability. Many
times, these boats come well equipped and have been
very maintained. These boats sell quick, as you can
normally get a great deal because the seller needs the
money.
Private sellers who aren't serious
These types of sellers aren't serious about their
boats, as they are trying to get a high price so
they can buy a lower priced boat. They normally
don't care if they sell the boat. If they can't get
a high price, they will normally keep the boat. They
should be avoided, as they can be very frustrating to
deal with.
Dealers
Dealers of used boats normally get their boats on
trade or consignment. They know how to make the
boat attractive, although most times they don't know
the history of the boat too well. Dealers are more
middle men, as they have a profit margin that has
to be met.
Brokers
These sellers normally don't waste time with smaller
boats, as reputable brokers can easily put together
high dollar sells. They aren't really the ones to
help you, as they aren't likely to help you get a
great price on a boat.
When you decide to buy your boat, always proceed with
caution and really think about who you plan to buy
the boat from. This can help you get the best
possible price, avoid headaches, and help you get
what you want. There are many sellers available, all
you have to do is compare prices and see what each
one has to offer you and your family.
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