Posts Tagged ‘Buying’

What to Look for When Buying a Fiberglass Boat

December 23rd, 2009

Fiberglass boats are great, inexpensive watercraft with long-lasting durability. They are also easy to care for and come in many shapes, sizes and designs capable of fitting the needs of any boater. In fact, with so many options to choose from, the biggest problem with fiberglass boats is determining what to look for.

First off, it’s importand to determine what you are looking for in a boat. While many boats are multi-utility, odds are that you have one or two primary goals in mind, and you should get a boat best suited to those needs. It may be possible to fish from a speedboat, but if your goal is bass fishing in the reeds, then the low-draw of a bass boat is clearly of more interest to you. Likewise, most fishing boats can’t accomodate the large motors necessary for high-speed boating. So before you go boat shopping, it’s key that you decide what you intend to use your boat for, and to buy accordingly.

The next thing you need to decide on is your budget. Luckily, boats tend to last for awhile, and you are likely to be able to find a used boat which is in good shape and meets your needs. If you choose to buy a used boat, be sure to inspect it carefully, and if possible take it for a test run. Boats which have been in storage for awhile often have hidden leaks or cracks in the hull which, while repairable, are things you should know about. You should also ask the previous owner what he or she used it for, and if they had any problems. You can avoid this hassle by buying a new, if more expensive, fiberglass boat, but you should still make sure that the boat is free of manufacturing defects and that it suits your needs and budget.

The boat you should buy is determined by your needs and your budget, but with a little work it’s always possible to find a craft which meets both. Just be sure to inspect and test it before purchasing it, and make sure you have storage space for it and equipment to keep it in tip-top shape. If you take care of your boat, it’ll be there for you for years!

For more information on boating, visit http://www.fiberglassboats.com

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Buying a Flats or Bay Boat

April 17th, 2009

Flats and Bay Boats

When considering purchasing a boat to use for fishing in shallow waters, because of their similarities, bay boats and flats boats may come to mind. There are a few differences to consider when deciding which boat is best for your specific needs.

Flats

These boats are also known as skiffs, and are built for shallow coastal waters. Used primarily for flats fishing, they are great for catching tarpon, redfish, snook, and bonefish. They have the ability to glide across calm water silently, and be maneuvered by a pole. They are usually suitable for water that is 12 inches deep. However, there are some flats with a shallow enough draft to be used in as little as 5 inches of water. These boats can hold two to three people. They are built with enough casting deck space on the bow and stern for fishing. They are also equipped with rod holders, livewells, and tackle storage. This does not leave much room for seating.

When purchasing a flats boat, there are a few qualities that are important to look for. You want your flats boat to be quiet, not warning all the fish of your arrival. It should also be easily maneuverable with poling. You want to be as dry as possible when you are fishing on your flats boat, so making sure that the boat is a smooth ride is crucial. The bigger the boat, the smoother the ride will be. However, a bigger boat will not be as shallow. It is very important to make certain that the boat is safe, because you will be standing most of the time, and throwing the balance off while fishing.

This boat has an outboard engine propulsion, ranging from 17 – 25 feet in length, and can accommodate up to three people.

Popular manufacturers of flats are:

Action Craft Century Coastline Ranger AR

Glasstream Sea Hunter

Bays

Bay boats are a cross between a center console and a flats boat. The higher gunwales make this boat more versatile, allowing for the ability to go off shore on the calm seas. It is also built with a shallow draft, enabling you to fish in shallow waters. A bay boat also has the ability to be maneuvered by pole. The center console allows for easy rod maneuverability around the deck. Bay boats are equipped with livewells, rod holders, dry storage, and ice coolers. There is more dry storage than on a flats boat, which is important for keeping your items safe from water damage. There are also options for attaching bimini canvas or T-tops.

When it comes to fishing, a bay boat is ideal for catching multiple types of fish. If you stay close to shore you can catch tarpon, sharks, bonefish, redfish and many more. When venturing off shore you will find grouper, snappers, and even kingfish just to name a few.

This boat has an outboard engine and stern drive propulsion, with 50 – 250 HP. They range from 16 – 22 feet in length, and can usually accommodate three people comfortably. The price range of bay boats is $11,000 – $35,000.

Popular manufacturers of bay boats are:

Carolina Skiff Key West

Triumph Mako

Ranger Kencraft

Both flats and bay boats are ideal for shallow waters and fair weather fishing. They are not well suited for cruising, skiing, or traveling. They are reasonably priced, and easily transported because they are lightweight.

Kristy Bateman is the writer for Earl’s Blog on SellUrBoat.com.. These articles are unique and helpful to anyone interested in learning about boating and or fishing. Please visit SellUrBoat.com to view a variety of unique articles from Kristy. SellUrBoat.com is The Simplest Solution to Buying and Selling ‘Ur’ Boat.

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Tips for Buying a Used Boat

September 7th, 2008

So you decided to jump in and buy yourself a boat.  Congratulations on your decision but before your give them a bag full of cash there are a few things you must do.  A proper inspection of the various components and parts of the boat will save you from many hassles, multiple repairs and wasted money.

When Buying Used Boats, always consider the source of the boat or the parties involved.  If you buy a boat from a private party it usually will not come with any type of guarantee or warranty.  Buying a boat from a reputable boat dealer typically will come with a warranty and they might even service it for free for a period of time.  If you buy a used boat from an online auction site such as Ebay, always make sure that the seller has excellent feedback above 96%.

Properly inspecting the boat is the number one way to safeguard your hard earned money.  First remember that this is a used boat and will have some normal wear and tear involved.  Look it over carefully and start inspecting the Hull.  Look for different colored paint or recently new paint.  Look for signs of  previous accidents. If you find an area on the hull which looks different than the rest, inspect it more carefully. The best way is by listening carefully as you tap it lightly with a small rubber hammer. What you are listening for is anything which sounds different than the normal solid sound.

Used Boat Motors can either be in very good condition or some can end up being real lemons.  Ask the seller if they have any invoices or a record of the boat repairs done on the engine.  The best way to test the boat motor is to start it up and hopefully drive the boat around a little.  Let the throttle out and see how it responds.  While the engine is shutoff do a propeller test by turning it.  When turning the propeller, what you are looking for is any type of warping or wobbling.  Visually inspect the propeller for any gashes, nicks or chips. Look for any oil or fluid leaks around the gaskets. Look at the mounts on the engine to see if they are in good condition or broken. Inspect any hoses or belts and look to see if they are dried, cracked or worn out.  If you are not mechanically inclined then it is best to have a mechanic look the engine over and do a compression check.

Once you have inspected the main parts of the boat the next thing is to inspect the secondary parts.  Check any bolted areas or outlets for problems or rust.  Search around the cabin areas and open all the cabinets.  Look over the upholstery to see the condition of it and if the stitches are intact. Look for any ripped, worn out or mildewed upholstery.  If you find several problems or do not feel comfortable with something than maybe you should pass on it and search for another boat.

When buying a large priced item such as a car or a boat, make sure to properly inspect the areas which receive the most wear and tear.  The hull, engine and other components must be looked over and tested.  A boat will be one of the most expensive purchases you will make so do not be afraid to take your time.  Buying a boat from a reputable seller and properly inspecting it will not only save you from needless repairs but will keep you from being stranded on the water.

Mark Ralph is a prolific author and operates a Boating Information website. He is the President of a Marketing & Consulting Firm. For Used Boats, click: http://www.Wholesale-Boats.com and a Top Source for Buying Boat Motors and For the Best Used Bass Boats!

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Buying A Boat – Basics For Beginners

September 2nd, 2008

Ask yourself two basic questions before you do your boat-buying research. First, what will you be fishing for? Are you looking for a quiet sunrise break on the lake? Or do you want to test your skill on the high seas? Second, when and where will you do your fishing? That quick sunrise fishing trip at the lake will take little more than a row boat or raft. But the serious deep sea fishing trip requires a sturdy dependable vessel with ample safety features.

Dealers of Ranger boats talk about a 5-star advantage that applies to all boats, no matter who manufactures them. The five points are quality, performance, innovation, safety, and value. What materials will offer you quality and value? Is your candidate boat made of plastic, metal, or fiberglass. Does it have a heavy-duty bilge pump and heavy-duty wiring? Will it withstand stormy seas?

Here are a few specifics to consider when buying a boat. These are just a sample of the factors that can make the difference between an enjoyable and successful fishing trip and a heartache. Be sure to do more research. Visit boat dealers and talk to people who already own their own boat. Buying a boat can be an expensive proposition. Make sure you are well-educated so that your decision is one you don’t regret.

How will you tow your new boat?

Your tow vehicle will dictate some options when you’re buying a boat. Be sure it has the proper power to get the job done. Generally, a larger boat may require a vehicle that will pull up to 3500 pounds, especially where you have to travel hills and mountains. A small fishing boat, like a kayak or inflatable raft, may need a special rack for your car top. Before you go shopping, be sure you have the correct equipment to transport your new boat.

What materials are appropriate for your fishing needs?

In smaller lakes where there aren’t big waves, a light aluminum may be perfect. Aluminum is more forgiving of bumps and bangs than fiberglass or wood. It’s also less expensive. A light metal boat or inflatable raft will be best for early mornings on the lake, but they won’t last in the bay. For heavier seas, you’ll need more durable materials, a sturdier craft, and a powerful motor.

Should you choose a new or second-hand boat?

Second-hand boats are cheaper and hold their value longer since they’ve already depreciated. You’re more likely to get a dependable, economical deal with smaller boats that don’t have a lot of equipment or features. But if you’re investing in a larger boat with lots of features, you’ll want the warranty that comes when you’re buying a new boat. First-time buyers may be better off buying a boat from a dealer. Once you have some experience owning and operating your own boat, you’ll be in a better position to judge the value of a used boat. At the same time, if you’re buying a boat for long trips or high-sea fishing, be prepared to spend thousands, or tens of thousands, to get a good vessel. It all depends on how you feel about safety and dependability. Take your chances and save money or spend the bucks and be secure. It’s all up to your adventurous nature.

How does the boat handle?

As a first-timer, you may not know what to look for in handling when you’re buying a boat. This is where the experience of other boaters may prove extremely valuable to you. But think about how easily you’ll be able to launch and retrieve the boat from a ramp. Will you be able to quickly attach it for towing? How much labor are you willing to invest to move your new boat around? And if you’re buying a boat with some power, you’ll need to understand how well it maneuvers in the water. Boats aren’t as easy to test drive as automobiles, so you’ll need to be certain you can handle a high-powered fishing boat.

Buying a boat is an exciting adventure. You’re buying much more than a water craft. You’re buying years of pleasurable fishing experiences. It might be tempting to rush into your purchase, buying a boat that appeals to your taste. But slow down and take care that your new boat meets your needs. We can’t stress enough how important it will be to do your homework.

Surf the internet to learn about boats, to find reviews, to listen in on forums and blogs, and to find out what models and brands have the best reputations. Talk to other boaters, and don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions at dealerships. A good dealer will be more than willing to invest the time to make sure you’re an educated buyer.

Abhishek is an avid Fishing enthusiast and he has got some great Fishing Secrets up his sleeves! Download his FREE 116 Pages Ebook, “Fishing Mastery!” from his website http://www.Fishing-Masters.com/772/index.htm . Only limited Free Copies available.

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Tips On Buying A Bass Boat

August 9th, 2008

Bass Boats have gone through a tremendous evolution to get to the point where they are today. The first “bass boat” was considered to be a hulled out canoe made from chippings off of very large trees. The Caddo Indians of east Texas and western Louisiana are credited with this type of boat “invention.”

They used these boats to fish to provide food for their families. Bass during that time were the number one food choice to enable families to survive. Fortunately for these families, bass were found in very large supplies in the swampy waterways of the southeastern United States, exactly where these tribes were located. Thus began the evolution of the bass boat as we know it today. Below are present day considerations and tips for purchasing a bass boat.

Consider your Towing Vehicle:

Bass boats and trailers with a full tank of gas and loaded with all the fishing gear easily weighs over 3500 pounds. Before you consider your purchase of a bass boat, make sure your towing vehicle can handle to the load. Also, remember to take into consideration towing up mountains and hills.

Bass Boats:

There are key questions that an angler looking into buying a bass boat needs to ask themselves. Where are you primarily going to be doing your fishing? What is the size of the body of water? Will it be small lakes and rivers? If so, perhaps all you will need is a small boat with a small outboard motor. If you are planning on fishing in larger bodies of water, a minimum of 19-foot boat is your best choice. Overall, the three main characteristics recognized and looked for in the bass boat of today are shallow draft, maneuverability and stability of the boat.

Lastly, if this is going to be your first bass boat purchase, you might want to consider buying a used boat. This way you can gain more experience and have a better idea of what you want in your next new boat purchase.

Aluminum Bass Boats:

Aluminum boats are much less expensive than fiberglass boats. Additionally aluminum boats are much more forgiving of occurrences that inevitable happen on the water; banging into a dock, running up into shallows, hitting submerged rocks or stumps and so forth. The downside is that aluminum bass boats ride much rougher than fiberglass boats and are easily blown around by even the slightest wind. Again, the size of the body you plan to bass fish on is clearly a tremendously important component in the decision making. If you are intending to fish in a small lake, a 16-17 foot aluminum bass boat would likely be a good choice.

Fiberglass Boats:

Fiberglass bass boats are much more expensive than aluminum but clearly there are reasons for this. Fiberglass bass boats are capable of handling rougher and bigger bodies of water, they give the boater a much smoother ride and they can go much faster than aluminum bass boats. Experts suggest that if you are considering going with a fiberglass bass boat that you purchase one with a 4-stroke outboard engine as opposed to a 2-stroke engine.

The reasoning is that even though they cost a bit more, they cover much more water as far as fuel is concerned, they are much quieter and much cleaner than a 2-stroke. The reduced fuel cost is estimated to pay-off for the additional cost of the engine in the long run. To give you an idea of the cost of a fiberglass bass boat, they usually range from $20,000 to a $40,000 top of the line boat.

New vs. Used Bass Boats:

There are advantages of buying a used bass boat. Clearly they will be less expensive than a new one and historically, used bass boats hold their value much better than a new one. Also, as mentioned above, is this is your first bass boat purchase, buying a used boat will give you a better understanding of what you may or may not want if you ever decide down the road to purchase a new bass boat. There are also disadvantages of purchasing a used bass boat. In the simplest way to state it, you may be buying someone else’s headache.

Outboard engines, as are found on bass boats, are known to be short lived and it is difficult to determine this on a causal inspection of the boat. The best suggestion is to either buy from someone you trust or have a professional inspect the boat and engine before purchasing. Lastly, just as in purchasing a car, the seller needs to be willing to negotiate on price with a used bass boat sale.

Obviously, the biggest advantage to buying a new bass boat is warranties and the sheer joy of owning a brand new bass boat!

Boat Handling:

Whether you decide to purchase a new or used bass boat, learning to handling it is a process that takes time. Every boat has its own “personality” and handles differently in every way. From launching to retrieval to water handling, bass boats are all different. A few examples of these differences are the sounds your engine makes when it is trimming, the way it pulls out and into shallow water and the correct engine positioning and trim tab positioning to get it up on plane. Bass boats are all different. Realizing this and knowing that it will take time to learn your boat will encourage you to spend more time on the boat and enjoying the wonderful sport of bass fishing!

For more information on boats, try visiting http://www.boatassistance.com – a website that specializes in providing boat related tips, advice and resources to include information on bass boat.

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Hot Tips for Buying the Perfect Boat

July 15th, 2008

Whether you are a newbie to boating or a seasoned navigator, you will find that choosing a boat to buy can be quite a daunting task. There are so many different types and models of boats for you to choose from, and you have to take certain factors into consideration when you are looking for the perfect boat to buy.

On the one hand, you have to know what type of boat best suits your purposes. You should take into consideration things like what the boat will be used for, who will use the boat, and where the boat will be used. For example, if you are planning to use the boat for longer trips out at sea, then you should get a boat that has cabins, toilets and cooking facilities.

On the other hand, if you just need a boat for a day trip, for fishing or other activities, then a small and simple boat will suffice. If you have difficulty finding out which type of boat is most suitable for your purposes, you can refer to informative articles in boating websites and boat review magazines to find out the different types of boats that are available today. You can also ask your friends for their opinions and find out about their experiences with their own boats.

You should also consider the size of the boat that you are going to buy. Different sizes of boats are suitable for different purposes, and you do not want something that is too small or too spacious. If you are planning to get a boat to go sailing in the ocean with a large group of friends, a bigger boat will be ideal. On the other hand, if you plan to use the boat for fishing trips with one or two family members or friends, or even alone, then you should opt for a smaller boat.

However, you should bear in mind that a bigger boat will require more maintenance because it has more amenities, like cabins and toilets. Owners of big boats often have a hard time transporting their boats from sea to land because the boats tend to be too big to fit into a trailer. Also, a bigger boat will need more gas compared to a small one.

Once you have ascertained which boat size you need, you have to consider whether you want a new boat or a used one. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, which you have to evaluate carefully. With a new boat, you can be assured that it will not have any defects. A new boat also comes with a warranty that covers all repair expenses for a period of time, in case your boat gets damaged.

Most new boats can be customized to suit your personal preferences. If you do not have a big budget to buy a boat, then you may want to consider getting a used boat. Used boats are most suitable for beginner boaters or those who do not know exactly what they wish to do with their boats.

One disadvantage of getting a used boat is that you may not get the amenities, features, or design that you want, and if you want to customize it later, you will have to spend a lot of extra money. Before you buy a used boat, you should have it inspected through a marine survey. This is important because you can identify any structural or mechanical problems that need to be fixed, so that your safety can be ensured.

Whether you are going for a new or used boat, shopping around before making a purchase is still the best way to get the most appropriate boat for your sailing needs. When you buy a boat, you have to make sure that the dealer is reputable.

Before buying a boat from a dealer or seller, you have to ask for proof of ownership to make sure that the boat is not a stolen property. If you are not confident in your ability to choose the right boat, you can work with a yacht broker who can give you expert opinion on which boat to buy. A yacht broker can also negotiate and arrange financing options for you.

When you have chosen the perfect boat, you must take it out for a test drive. The test drive will enable you to ascertain the efficiency of the boat. Before going on a test drive, you must check if the engine is warmed-up.

A warmed-up engine can be an indication that the boat has start-up trouble. The owner may start the engine before you arrive so that he can hide the fact that the boat has trouble starting up. You should also check the bilge for any oil leaks before and after the test drive. The precision and performance of the gauges and instruments, as well as the oil pressure should also be checked.

During the test run, you must do some evaluative maneuvering to check the overall capability of the boat. Maneuvering wide and tight turns must be a part of the test run. Response time should also be checked by maneuvering the boat forward and backward.

You must also pay attention to the bow steering at low speeds and find out the time it takes to achieve high speeds. Take note of how well the boat handles waves because you do not want a bumpy ride out at sea. Make sure that the test drive is long enough, so that you can assess overheating problems.

After you test drive the boat and find that it is worth buying, make sure that you negotiate with the dealer for the best price. Once both of you agree on the selling price, you should get the owner to document the agreement, listing the terms of the purchase as well as other add-ons that need to be purchased. If you are planning to buy a brand new boat, it is advisable that you contact several dealers first to do some comparison shopping before you decide which boat to purchase.

This article was written by Jay Gaulard on behalf of BoatClassifieds.US , a popular boating website.

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Advice on Buying a New or Used Boat

July 11th, 2008

Buying a new boat:

Are you planning on purchasing a new boat? Whether you are a first time boat owner, or have been navigating the waters for decades, there are a few steps you should take. As exciting as it is; buying a new boat is not something that you should just jump into.

You need to decide which boat is right for you and your needs. Take into consideration what you will be using the boat for, who will be going with you, and where you will be taking your boat. You can find this information buy reading articles about different types of boats, researching boating websites, and looking through boat review magazines. Boat shows are an excellent way to learn about boat styles, sizes, engines and equipment. Reading opinions and experiences that other people have with boats may sway your decision or give you ideas.

What size should I get?

Deciding what size boat you need is important. You do not want to get a boat that is too small for the intended use, or one that is too big for just taking you fishing. Bigger boats will usually have more amenities such as cabins, toilets, and galleys. However, this means that there are more systems that need to be understood and maintained. Some boats are too big to be trailered, which leads to transportation issues. They will also take more gas to operate.

New or Used?

Decide whether you want a boat that has never hit the water or one that has had a little experience. Buying both new and used boats has its pros and cons, like anything else. Whether you are buying new or used; shop around before making your big purchase.

If you buy a new boat, you know that it does not already have problems or repairs that need to be made. If anything goes wrong with the boat once you own it, it is under warranty. Buying new also allows you to custom order according to your specific needs and wants. There are financing options when buying a new boat, which allows for better interest rates and deals. If you buy new, make sure that you address any problems that come up while the warranty is still in effect.

If it is a seasoned boat that you are looking for; than buying used is your best option. Used boats are good for boaters who are not sure what they want to do on the boat. If you are on a budget, buying used in less expensive than new. You may not find exactly what you want in a used boat, which leads to added expenses to customize later. Before buying your used boat, get a marine survey and have the boat inspected. This will check for structural damage or mechanical problems that the owner failed to mention, or may not have known about. They will also be able to detect whether the boat will need repair in the near future. With this information you can make an educated decision on whether buying used will really save you more money.

Make sure that the dealer you are buying your boat from is reputable. Checking around and asking advice will only help you in the long run. It is very important to check the dealer/seller for proof of ownership. You do not want to buy a boat that is stolen. If you feel as though you need help researching and purchasing your boat, you may want to hire a yacht broker. They will help you determine which boat is best for you, negotiate deals and arrange financing.

Test Drive:

Like a car, a boat should also be taken for a test drive. Once you think you have found the boat that you would like to purchase, it is a good idea to see how it handles on the water. Here you can see if you enjoy the way that it rides, and if it is right for you. There are certain tests that you should do while out on the water. Check to the engine to see if they are warm before turning on the ignition. If it is, the owner may have started it up prior to your arrival. This would be done to hide the fact that the boat may have trouble starting. The bilge should be checked at the beginning and end of the test drive for any oil leaks. While in the dock, maneuver the boat around in forward and reverse to check for response time. Check for bow steering while at slow speeds, and record how long it takes the boat to plane at high speeds. Take several turns; wide and tight at various speeds. If the bow of the boat bounces on straight runs, adjusting the trim should be able to fix the problem. Check to see how smoothly the boat handles waves and wakes. You do not want side to side rolling. You should also be observing how well the gauges and instruments are working, as well as the oil pressure. The engine should be run long enough to check for overheating.

Purchasing the boat:

Make sure to check around for prices and follow blue book pricing guides. This will help you negotiate the best price for your boat. Once you have the price you are satisfied with, have the owner put it in writing. This will eliminate any problems with price changes before the sale is complete. This agreement should also list terms, as well as the accessories that are included in the price. If you are buying a new boat, contact several lenders to get the best deal on financing.

A few more things after the purchase:

It is a good idea to take a boating safety course. Even if you are familiar with the water, and have been on numerous boats in the past; you should take the course. There are safely tips to follow to make sure that you have a fun and safe summer on your boat.

You are now the proud owner of a boat that is new to you. When insuring your boat, it is very important to include the survey and inspection if you have one.

Register your boat and apply for a new registration sticker. Title your boat in your own name; if it was previously owned it will need to be re-titled. Pay your sales taxes. Get your boat inspected by the local Coast Guard and display the sticker on the port side window.

Preparing yourself by setting a budget is important. Owning a boat can get expensive. Plan out what added expenses you feel are necessary for your boat, and don’t forget the cost of fuel. Following money saving tips will help you stick to your budget.

If you are not an experienced boater, your first trip on the water should be with one. They can show you helpful things like turns, docking and trailering. They will help you to feel more comfortable and confident enough to be on your own.

Make sure you are equipped with the necessities. Keep a tool kit, first aid kit, documentation, light bulbs, fuses and manuals on board.

Get out on the water and enjoy your new boat!

Kristy Bateman is the writer for Earl’s Blog on SellUrBoat.com.. These articles are unique and helpful to anyone interested in learning about boating and or fishing. Please visit SellUrBoat.com to view a variety of unique articles from Kristy. SellUrBoat.com is The Simplest Solution to Buying and Selling ‘Ur’ Boat.

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Guide to Buying a Boat

June 13th, 2008

You have always dreamed of owning a boat. You finally have the money you need to purchase it. Are you sure you are ready? Before you put up the large amount of money necessary to purchase a boat, make sure you are getting a good deal on a boat you can realistically use.

Features to Consider

When you buy a boat, you need to make sure it works well on the type of water you have nearby. If the water you will be boating on is small and fairly sheltered you do not need a lot of deadrise or freeboard on your boat. On the other hand, if the water is going to bring waves your way, you will need these features. If you are boating in a cool climate, look for a boat that will protect you from the elements if it gets cold or starts raining while you are on the water. On the other hand, if you are boating in a warm climate, you may want some shade from the sun, but other than that an open boat is just fine.

Should You Buy New or Used?

Just like car buyers, those who are shopping for a boat must decide whether they want a new or used boat, and the decision is not necessarily easy. New boats are less likely to need to be repaired right away. New boats often come with a warranty. On the other hand, used boats cost less and often have already received the upgrades that you might want. Used boats also do not depreciate as quickly as new boats, because their purchase price already reflects some depreciation.

If you choose to buy a new boat, visit boat shows or shop towards the end of the model year, which occurs in July. These are the best times to find a good deal on a new boat. If you decide to shop for a used boat, use online classifieds to find a variety of boats in your area. You can also shop at dealerships to see boats that they received as trade-ins. These are not as prevalent as they are in the used car world, but you can find them.

If you decide to buy a used boat, you have one important thing to consider. Boats are commonly stolen. Before you buy a used boat that has a great price, make sure that you see the owner’s proof of ownership, such as the title to the boat. If the owner does not have these, he may have stolen the boat. Find a different boat to buy.

Researching a Particular Boat

If you decide to shop for a used boat, which is the most economical option, you will want to do some research before you buy a boat that seems to fit your needs. You can call the U.S. Coast Guard to find out if the boat has had any manufacturer’s recalls. If it has, find out from the seller if the necessary parts have been repaired. If they haven’t, do not buy the boat unless the recall period is still in effect and you can get the problems fixed.

Inspecting the Engine

Never buy a boat unless you have thoroughly inspected the engine. If you do not know much about engines, have a mechanic or technician who is knowledgeable about boats do an inspection for you. Boat engines work much harder than car engines, so you need to look at the engine carefully. Keep in mind that boats that run in salt water are prone to more corrosion than those that run in fresh water.

Check all hoses, gaskets, and plugs for signs of leakage. Inspect hoses and belts for signs of cracking. If they are brittle, they have not been well cared for or are old. Check the bilge for oil, as this can be a sign of an oil leak. Inspect the sacrificial anodes for signs of wear and corrosion. Check the engine and gear case oil. If they are very dirty, the boat has not had the normal maintenance done to it. Boats that were run hot will have a white residue on the engine. You can inspect the spark plugs to see how well the engine has been serviced. Poorly serviced engines will have burnt or poorly gapped spark plugs. Be sure to inspect the propeller, rudder, and drive for signs of damage caused by hitting something that was submerged underwater. While this does not mean the owner was negligent, these are damages that could cost you significantly as the boat’s new owner.

Consider Hiring a Professional

A marine surveyor is someone who can do the necessary inspections on a boat you are considering buying. You will probably find that your insurance provider or your loan officer requires you to have a surveyor inspect the boat. If not, you should hire one to do an inspection before you buy the boat.

Besides inspecting the engine and body for normal problems, a marine surveyor knows all of the laws regarding boat safety and manufacturing. He will know if add-ons that the owner has put on the boat are safe or not. You can find independent marine surveyors using the classifieds or phone book. Be sure that you are present for the surveyors’ inspection, so you can ask questions about his findings.

Take It for a Test Run

Before you buy a boat, ask for a “sea trial.” Take the owner along with you and take the boat for a spin. Ask the owner to keep the engine cold before you arrive, so that you can make sure that the boat starts well with a cold engine. Maneuver the boat through a variety of tests, such as forward and reverse, turning, accelerating and slowing down. Be sure to take some waves at various angles. If the water is still, make some circles with the boat to create waves. These tests will help you know whether or not the boat handles well. If it does and it passed the inspections process, you have found the right boat for you!

Jay Gaulard writes for a wide selection of websites on various topics. He is a veteran of the internet and has come to be respected in his many areas of expertise. This article was written on behalf of BoatLeeg, a popular used boats for sale website.

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