You can do anything with recreational boating these days: fishing, swimming, water sports and sailing are just the tip of the iceberg of activities. To top it off, the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) found out that powerboat sales rose six percent last year and are expected to rise another six percent in 2018. There’s a boat out there for everyone once you figure out what best suits your needs.
Whether it’s new or used, boats don’t have to be impossible to afford and manage. People love getting out on the water for fun; be one of those people this year. Let’s break down the process of trying to purchase a boat. Here’s how to find the right boat for your needs, courtesy of boats.com:
What Type of Boat to Buy
First things first: ask yourself what you’re going to be using the boat for the most. Think about where and how you would use the boat. Boats are very specific, depending on the type that you’re getting. Nothing beats doing your research and finding out which boat is best for you. Just like how an off-roading vehicle would fare horribly on a highway, choosing the right boat for your needs depends on everything that you’re doing.
- Are you racing or doing water sports?
- Are there children involved?
- What about fishing or cruising in general?
- What’s your budget?
Make sure to take the time to ask yourself these key questions when deciding what type of boat is right for you.
New or Used?
New boats can be very fun to use, but older boats are also far more affordable in the long run. It’s not like fiberglass and aluminum rots, so modern boats often can withstand the test of time. But just like with buying a used car, you have to keep in mind some extra variable, as the boat might need more upkeep when it’s used. However, it’s a small price to pay when you’re trying to save some cash.
You will also need to factor Boat Insurance costs into your budget. With an older boat, though you may save on the cost of the boat itself, your boat insurance costs may be a little higher, since the boat is not fully modernized.
How to Shop for a Boat
The best place to go boat shopping is online, and there are a number tools and resources you can use to make it an easy experience. Discover Boating has its own search engine for finding the perfect boat in the comfort of your home. It’s a good way to compare boats to a tee.
However, don’t go through the entire process online. Online research is a great start, but you should always look at a boat in person before making a purchase. So that brings us to…
Inspecting the Boat
Make sure once you’re viewing the boat in person, you’re inspecting every aspect of it, especially when you buy used. This is the time when you find out what’s included with your potential boat and what isn’t. While negotiating costs, check for online fraud and complete the paperwork needed. Then you’ve successfully closed a deal.
About Mariners Insurance
Mariners General Insurance Group was founded in 1959 to protect boat owners and marine business clients. We are marine insurance experts and insure boats worldwide – in every ocean on the planet. Marine insurance is critical if you own a boat or nautical business. Trust the professionals with all of your Boat Insurance needs – trust Mariners Insurance. Call us at (800) 992-4443 any time you have questions or concerns about insurance for your vessel or marine business.
