Before you select your boat, you must know about the types of boats. All boats are primarily of three types. These are man-powered boats (like kayak, gondolas, and rafts), sailboats, and motorboats. If we dive deep, then there are 20 popular boat variants across the globe. They are-
- 1. Fishing boat.
- 2. Dinghy boat.
- 3. Deck boat.
- 4. Bowrider boat.
- 5. Catamaran boat.
- 6. Cuddy Cabins boat.
- 7. Centre Console boat.
- 8. Houseboat.
- 9. Trawler boat.
- 10.Cabin Cruiser boat.
- 11.Game boat.
- 12.Motor Yacht boat.
- 13.Personal watercraft boat.
- 14.Runabout boat.
- 15.Jetboat.
- 16.Wakeboard/ski boat.
- 17.Banana boat.
- 18.Lifeboats.
- 19.Pontoon boats.
- 20.Bridge boat.
1. Select the type of activities on your Dream Boat
If you are interested in fishing, then you choose a fishing boat. That is your category. There are hundreds of quality fishing boats for sale online. Other than that, you may have an interest in long cruising or excursions. Some people purchase boats only for sports. Make sure you know your priority for the dreamboat.
2. Determine the Number of passengers on Boat
3. Consider your Budget
4. Consider Boat Storage
5. Adjust to your Boating Experience
If you are new with boating, then buy a small boat that is easy to navigate. Buying a high-end boat with a wide range of features can be difficult to control. Also, look for boats that can be upgraded in the future.
6. Consider Other costs
Buying boats does not mean that you will invest only once. You have to consider other expenses too. Just like other vehicles, boats have insurance too. No one is ready to run an expensive boat without any insurance. Some jurisdictions won’t even allow you to set sail without proper insurance and licensing.
Other than that, there is a docking fee or marina fee for your boat. Some people use boats only in the fishing season and store them in other places for the rest of the year. If that is the case for you, then you have to pay extra charges.
Not to forget, you have to burn fuel to set sail to your happy place. Besides, maintenance is a must to keep the boat in the best possible condition. It is not unusual to repair or replace propellers or any other damaged items over the years of regular use.
7. Get the Boat of your choice
Online platforms have a long listing of boats to choose from. Other than that, you can visit boat shows to shop for your dream boat. These Boat shows also have promotional offers with good discounts. Also, it is an opportunity to meet some boat experts and authentic boat dealers. You can find more information about boat shows in newspapers or on social media.
8. Quick Inspection
Once you have selected your dream boat, you should go and give a quick inspection before you buy it. There are certain tips that you should follow during boat inspection. You can do it with a boat specialist or by yourself and a boat enthusiast friend. These are-
- 1. First, give it a naked eye inspection and try to find any scratch or cracks on the boat.
- 2. If all looks good to the naked eye, then look for any leaks or corrosion on the Boat. There could be algae in upholstery. Discuss these issues before taking possession of your boat dealer.
- 3. Look for bare wires or poorly sealed terminators.
- 4. Use gauging paste to find water in oil or gas. Inspect any fuel issues with extra care - as this is a big one.
- 5. After all, these give it a test ride. It is similar to a vehicle test drive. You need to feel the real-time experience before you buy it.
9. Boat License
You must have a boat license to run it legally in inland waterways. For the US, you have to get your boat license from DMV.com. In the USA, there are different authorities for different states and municipalities who grant your boating license. So, check your state’s terms and conditions carefully.
In the case of the UK, you need boat insurance and a boat safety scheme certificate to make your Boat legal in the UK. For other countries, please research and follow the laws of the appropriate boat licensing and regulating authority.
10. Enjoy your Boat
As now you have gone through every step, it’s now time to enjoy your boat. Call your friends, or hang out with your family for a long holiday. Keep safety in mind and get life jackets and first aid kits handy. Keep one life jacket per passenger. Watch the weather forecast and plan your long-awaited boat trip.
Selecting your dream boat is never easy. Many times people buy boats and then experience buyers’ remorse. Often they also experience the one-foot-itis – the regret of not going big enough. If you follow the above listed ten simple steps in selecting your boat, you will surely find the boat of your dreams. Go for it! Pick the one that suits you the most.