Buying a Boat FAQ
What is the price ranges for a new boat?
Many people tend to think that purchasing a boat is very expensive but this is not usually the case. The prices will depend on the make, the type and the model of the boat that you want to purchase. There is no universal quotation on how much the boat will coast but it is important to know the model and the make of the boat that you want to buy first. View our boats for sale listings and check out the prices there.
Which is the best insurance cover for the boat?
It is important and wise to adapt the ‘all risk’ insurance policy since you will be in a position to insure the boat in a number of areas as compared to the other insurance covers. There are however a number of exclusions and they will include deterioration, natural damage, freezing and damage caused by marine life and animals. More on boat insurance.
Is it important to buy a certified boat?
You really need to purchase a certified boat since you will need to meet all the requirements of the boating industry. Just like a car, you will need to have road certification to be able to get the car on the road and the same applies for this method. It will also guarantee you safety all the time that you are riding the boat.
Which is the correct boat for me?
There are a number of different boats that are available and you will need to choose the one that will meet your needs. The first step will be to find out why you need the boat either for fun or for commercial reasons. You will then need to look at the price of the boat and find out if you will be able to purchase the boat. We all love the best toys and we would all have them but what is limiting us is the money factor which tends to make others go for the other cheaper makes.
If you are looking for a used boat which is a bit cheaper, you will need to do your research well and within a short time you will be in a good position to find the one that you want and meets your required needs.
Am I allowed to take the boat for a test drive?
You need to take the boat for a ride especially if you have found the one that you want to buy. This way, you will be able to know the real condition of the boat and if it will perform according to the way you want. If you are new in the boating process, you will need to use a friend or an experienced rider who will assist you to know if the boat is in the right condition. There are a number of people who will only polish the boat on the outside. Do not be fooled by the shiny coating of the boat but the real performance of the boat will be determined when it is on the waters. You need to tests its power, performance, speed, the interior as well as the exterior. For the used boats, you will really need to be on the look out more since they have been used for some time and you do not know how the owner treated it.
What factors should I put into consideration when I am inspecting the boat?
There are a number of factors that you should not overlook when you are purchasing a boat. Whether it is new or old, you need to closely look at the specifications. Some of the factors include:
- Propeller
- Bilge
- Floors and sliding
- Upholstery
- Batteries
- Fuel tank
- Deck hardware
- Propeller shaft
- Electrical components
- Boat engine
- Hull condition
- Steering and throttle controls
If you are looking to buy a used boat for sale, there are other factors that you will need to consider and they include rot, maintenance history, number of boat hours or mileage and the storage history.
I am new with boats and I think I need a professional to be able to assist me in the inspection process, who should I be able to call for assistance?
If you are new with boats and you do not know how to inspect, you need to have a professional marine surveyor who will assist you to get the correct details and give you the proper advice. He will be responsible for giving you a valuation report and recommendation which will assist you to get the best results on the boat.
What mistakes do boat buyers usually make?
The most common mistake that people do is to purchase a boat that will not suit their needs. They only take up the boat because it is cheap or they are blinded by the model and the shape. It is important to be able to choose one that will effectively suit all of your needs.
When is the ideal time to purchase the boat?
There are usually a number of boat shows that are available and this way, you will be able to view a wide variety. You will also get lots of advice from the manufactures and the boat dealers.
The good thing about boating is the fact that there are a number of different designs and models that will be able to suit all of your needs effectively. You will only need to know what you want to do with the boat and get to know the one that will perform the function that you want.
You can also do boat comparison and you will narrow down your search. If you have a particular make and model in mind, find out if it will serve you the right purpose.
What size will I need?
If you want to buy a boat, you will need to find out what reason you will be using it for. If you only intend to use it for family outings and vacations, select the one that will fit everyone comfortably. There is no need of purchasing a big boat and you only have a few family members.
If you are using the boat for commercial purposes, you will need to purchase a boat that will fit all your clients as well (or fish). The mistake that most people do is to buy a boat simply because it is cheap or beautiful and they do not keep in mind the need and the use of the boat. If you are confused on the boat that is ideal for you, it is important to ask around for assistance and advice especially from friends and boat dealers.
I need more information on power needs.
As usual, the firs and overall importance when you are buying a boat will be to know the reason why you will need to use the boat. The engine power will depend on the use of the boat. Those who will be using it on a daily purpose like fishing and other commercial reasons, it is important to choose one that will have a stronger engine. Always enquire the engine power form the sellers before you purchase the boat.
How much will the boat cost?
A lot of people are of the opinion that the boats are highly priced but this is not usually the case. You will just need to finds dealers that are selling new or used boats according to your budget. There is also some boat financing that is available and the dealers and the financial institutions will be able to assist you to get the correct financing and within a short while, you will get the boat that you want.
Which boat should I buy a new one or a used one?
If you have the money, it is wise to go and shop for a new boat first and this way, you will be in a position to know all the correct specifications and you will use this knowledge when you are shopping for a used “larger” boat later on. It is also recommended to visit different boat dealers and fins out the different boats that that have and you will also be in a good position to get the best quotation.
How will I know that the used boat is in good condition?
If you are doing this for the firs time and you are not experienced in the boating sector, you will need to use the services of a professional marine surveyor who will give you a detailed boat valuation report. This will come in handy especially if you are getting a boat financing from the financial institutions.
If you do not know where to get the surveyor, you will be able to find them from the boat insurance companies and they will be able to recommend you to some.
When is the best time for me to be able to buy the boat?
There is actually no perfect time to buy the boat. You will just need to but it when you are ready. However, you can be able to find a perfect deal during the boat shows that are held at least once a year. This way, you will be exposed to a number of different manufactures and dealers and you will get all the services that you will need. Some of the parties that attend the boat shows will include the manufactures, the boat dealers, the boat insurance companies and the financial institutions. You will also get huge discounts on these show.
How can I be able to get a good boat dealer?
That an easy one. We’ve listed some really great US boat dealers.
How and where will I be able to learn all the water way rules?
There are a number of boat education courses that one can be able to learn though the boatsafe.com, boatingsafety.com and many others.
I want a good simple family boat!
There are quire a number of boats that are available for this purpose and you will need to confirm with the dealers and the manufactures. However, with some research, you will be in a good position to know the one that will fit this need. Check out the Motor Yacht Boats for Sale.
How does one go for boating with two small children?
If you are planning this type on an outing, you will definitely need additional help from an adult. It will be impossible to ride the boat and at the same time cater to the two small children. You will also need to have life jackets on board.
