Everything You Need To Know Before Buying Your First Boat – Boat ownership is a purchase that will provide yourself, your friends, and your family the opportunity to create memories like no other. That being said, boat ownership is seen as more of an investment than a purchase and this investment is not a decision to be taken lightly. There are many aspects to consider when buying a boat, but we are here to help. In this article, we’ll cover everything a first-time boat buyer should know before making this large investment into boat ownership.
What type of boat to buy?
When buying a boat, before thinking about the size, style, budget and finer details, you must ask yourself where and how you will use the boat that you are purchasing.
At the early stages, it is important, to be honest with yourself and be realistic with your intentions on how you intend to use your boat. Don’t make a rush decision when buying a boat. The boat which is purchased will determine how you will enjoy your time on the water. Whether it be for entertaining guests with cocktails in the evening or for family vacations sailing around, each reason will lead you to a different boat.
Once you have considered your intentions and desires, consider visiting TheYachtMarket to explore their vast selection of boats for sale.
Consider your budget
Buying a boat is not just the amount of money you initially pay for it, there are additional costs. These costs include insurance, surveys, mooring fees, maintenance, and storage at the very least, but there are further things to consider depending on the boat you purchase.
All boats require annual maintenance, no matter their age. However, many first-time buyers are advised to buy used rather than new, since it carries a lower risk, and it is often that the first boat is considered a mistake. Though this comes with a higher risk of maintenance work being required and therefore increasing costs.
If you have decided on a boat or would like to compare estimated annual costs, why not try this boat ownership cost calculator.
Certain skills will help make your purchase cost-effective
Operating a boat is not all plain sailing and as a minimal requirement, you are required to have a certificate in safe boating. This qualification will teach you how to operate a boat before you are to take it onto the waters, you will learn how to handle it during different weather conditions, waves and tides, changing currents, and boat traffic.
To gain the accredited qualification to safely and legally operate a boat as previously mentioned, Visit RYA’s website to view their range of courses.
As a first-time buyer, it is unlikely you are going to have the same skills as an experienced boater. Though nothing is going to ruin your vacation or travels more than something needing to be fixed, and this is inconveniently likely to happen when sailing rather than next to the dock where you can call a technician. With that being said, technicians can be expensive, so it would be wise to learn or brush up on specific skills involving plumbing, electricals, engine and mechanical fixes in consideration of your chosen boat.
Poppy Watt