Buying your first boat does not have to be a challenge when you apply the following tips before you male that commitment. Boating is an exciting experience, and this lifestyle welcomes you with open arms right out of the gate. Don’t rob yourself of amazing experiences with your family and friends, be sure to consider these beginner boat trader tips today.
1. Learn the Lifestyle – Don’t just assume that boating is for you, get out there first and see for yourself. Ask friends or rent a charter, and get out there every weekend to see what all the excitement is about. Make sure you are 100% on board before you reach for your checkbook.
2. Used vs New – Never assume that you are going to get the best deal buying a new boat (like a Sea Ray). There are thousands of beginner boaters who want out of the deal only months after they boat a new boat, and these folks want to make deals. There are used boats being sold at a fraction of the cost, and the best part, you get to buy all these upgrades and accessories they bought soon after getting their boat.
3. Safety First – When you own the boat, you are in charge of the safety for every man, woman, and child you take out on the water each trip. Take the time to invest in a safety training class so that if trouble happens out on the water, you are prepared to quickly take action and protect those you love.
4. Too Big a Boat – That large boat looks amazing, and it would easily handle you and a few friends partying this weekend. The trouble is you buy too big a boat and you regret it soon after. The additional costs for a larger boat add up quickly, so make sire you recognize the right size boat for your needs before you make any commitment.
5. Test Drive – Don’t assume because the boat is the right size and the right price, that it is perfect for you. Get that boat in the water and take a test drive. Make sure you are comfortable behind the wheel and can easily navigate and handle the boat at different speeds.
Follow along with these boat buying tips and you will have more fun on the water than you ever imagined. A little bit of work up front will ensure that you are not getting in over your head out of the gate.