Boat Purchase Guide: 8 Tips to Buy a New Boat
Our 8 tips to buy a new boat
Have you decided to buy a new boat and take the plunge into the world of boating? This excellent family leisure will allow you to live unique moments with family and friends in addition to making you discover new horizons.
However, deciding to buy a new boat is much more complex than buying a new car. It is not easy to find your way through this maze of models and, above all, to choose the boat that suits you best. There are various factors to consider which, depending on your tastes and needs, maybe more or less important in choosing a boat.
Here is a short guide to help you in your approach.
1) Talk with owners
2) Identify the type of boats that suits you.
3) The size is important
4) New or used?
5) Do not succumb to the first model visited
6) Imagine yourself living on board
7) Choose quality and a reputable brand
8) Give it a try
1) Talk with owners
Talk with people who have a boat, mainly those who do the same activities you plan to do. You can learn from their experiences and, especially, do not make the same mistakes. A friend can advise you on how to buy a new boat and help you guide your choice.
2) Identify the type of boats that suits you.
This is not obvious. Remember that your tastes will evolve over the years and that the type of activities you like now may be different in a few years. The small boat intended for water sports could no longer suit when you want to follow friends for a weekend on the water. When you want to buy a new boat, plan long term, you will save.
3) The size is important
Once you have chosen the ideal type of boat you want to buy, you need to look at the dimensions. It is crucial to select a boat according to the bodies of water on which you will sail most often. A small boat may be convenient to store or transport, but it becomes less enjoyable on larger, rougher waters. A larger boat will be more comfortable and more pleasant on the water, requiring a larger budget. Be aware that operating costs are generally associated with the size of the boat (storage, gas, insurance, marina). It’s better to have a smaller boat and enjoy it to the fullest than to have a larger boat and have to leave it at the quay. Human nature dictates that we often want a boat that is larger than we can afford. You have to find the right balance.
4) New or used?
As with cars, to buy a new boat or to purchase a used boat has its share of advantages and disadvantages. Just see what you are most comfortable with.
New: It will be more expensive to buy a new boat, and you will have to absorb quite a bit of depreciation in the first few years, hence the importance of choosing the right boat. On the other hand, you will have a boat that you are delighted with since you will have the possibility to select the various equipment and options. Also, you will be able to enjoy a new boat, with all the fun that comes with it, without any hassle because of the manufacturer’s warranty.
Used: Buying a used model allows you to make significant savings. You can get a boat for less money or take advantage of it to buy a larger boat that would often be inaccessible to you when it is new. On the downside, buying a used model is a bit riskier. You may have to make unexpected repairs or end up with someone else’s problems. That’s why it’s crucial to have a used model adequately evaluated before you buy it. You will also have to live with the boat and its imperfections.
5) Do not succumb to the first model visited
Visit several boats during your purchasing process and avoid deciding on the first model that comes along. To buy a new boat is a very emotional process and, too often, we get carried away by the first model we see. Take your time and make the pleasure last. Be aware that each boat has its own particularities, and even with the same dimensions, one model may attract you a little more because of its ergonomics or particularities. Do not hesitate to go around comparable models to make an informed decision and not regret your purchase afterwards.
6) Imagine yourself living on board
When you visit a boat, don’t hesitate to imagine what life will be like on board: try out all the seats, check the cockpit’s ergonomics, imagine your passengers seated and move around. Validate the size and number of storage spaces, and if the boat has a cabin, don’t hesitate to try out the bathroom and berths to check their comfort and size. Different configurations may or may not appeal to you.
7) Choose quality and a reputable brand
Some lesser-known brands may be attractive because of their more competitive price. However, you should know that the price to pay for this “saving” is inevitably lower quality and durability. In addition, these boats will have a higher depreciation and, above all, a lower resale value, which will penalize you at the time of resale or exchange. You will ultimately lose the savings you initially made on buy a new boat. Always buy the best quality possible.
8) Give it a try
Even if it is a little more complicated, ask to test the boat. You can always sign a contract, conditional on a subsequent trial. You will be able to check its behaviour on the water and, above all, make sure that the chosen motorization is adequate. An underpowered boat is anything but pleasant… To help you, know that more and more boat lounges afloat allow you to test various models and compare several boats in the same place.
In short, you must imagine life with your boat and the lifestyle you want to adopt. This will significantly assist you in determining the type of boat to purchase and the ideal size. Then target a few brands and models and visit several comparable boats. Also, be aware that relationship and trust with your dealer are essential elements in the equation.
If you want to buy a new boat from Turkey, please visit our Turkish boat manufacturers category here or here.
