Sailing Away
Buying a boat can be very exciting. It can also be extremely time consuming and stressful if you are not sure what you’re doing. Before you prepare to “set sail” on your new purchase, there are a few things you should know. A lot of first time boat buyers make the mistake of assuming it will be easy to find a boat. However, unlike vehicles (which all have four wheels and are relatively easy to come by), buying a boat is going to take a little more research. Unfortunately, boats aren’t as common as some other modes of transportation. Therefore, you have to be diligent in your search for what will ultimately fit your needs.
Types of Boats
There are various types of boats out there ranging anywhere from $7,000 and up. You’ll, of course, have to do your own research to figure out which one you want, but some of them include:
- Bowriders- are usually 16-24 ft. and cost around $18k; are usually great for water sports enthusiasts
- Cuddy Cabins-are usually 19-25 ft. and cost around $22k; usually equipped with small cabin that will usually include porta-potti, freshwater supply and even an alcohol stove
- Offshore Fishing- are usually 16-30 ft. and cost around $20k; great for fishing and usually include sleeping quarters
- Houseboats-are usually 20-65 ft. and cost around $60k; usually have full dining facilities, tvs, microwaves; and washer/dryer hookups; can also be equipped with A/C
- Bass Boats-are usually 16-20ft. and cost around $18k; most have bait and fish wells with compartments for rod and gear storage.
When you are looking to purchase your first boat, make sure you read up on it. Know how much you’re willing and able to spend on it beforehand. Know where you are going to store it once you get it. Most neighborhoods do not allow you to store boats on your property, and storing your boat at a boatyard (depending on the location and time of year) can be expensive. Also, just like driving, you can’t drive a boat without a license, so make sure you look into what the process is and how long it will take you to get the boating license first before you even think about buying a boat. Who knows, you may get halfway through getting your licensure and realize you don’t really want to do it after all!
Really interesting your Blogpost. I always thought that boats are much more expensive and sailing is the most expensive hobby in the world. But you proved that i was wrong.
[...] you’re thinking of sailing away, there are some things you should keep in mind. Buying a boat is a major purchase for a lot [...]