So, you’ve made the exciting decision to buy a boat. Let’s address the main factors you should be considering when finally purchasing a new or used boat. No matter the reason you’re getting one, these boat buying tips will help guide you through your purchase.
Buying a new boat
Buying your own new boat gives you access to the latest developments in boating technology and design and gives you more customization options (although each of these extras is an added cost). It also means you get the honour of taking it on its first voyage, with no uncertainty over its history. And powered by a new motor, your initial maintenance costs won’t be as high.
Buying a used boat
Not everyone’s after the perks of a new boat. Sometimes the affordable option to buy used boats gets people exactly what they need – at a lower cost. Although the initial price may be lower, you can experience other costs you may not have been expecting (especially if the boat has had an extensive history). Just make sure you go through a trusted dealer or reliable seller who you can rely on for transparency.
After having considered your needs and budget, narrowed down your choice of boat and made sure it’s within your budget, then we suggest that you take a close look at a number of boats before you make your final choice. As far as this is concerned, there are three things you need to do: a walkthrough, a sea trial and a survey.
First walk around the boat and take a close look at its condition, then get on board the boat and do the same. Let the dealer take you for a sea trial – a quick trip out for you to get an idea of how your boat will move and handle on the water – and whether it’s really the one you want. Finally, you will need to have a survey of the boat done if you are not already provided with the various certificates you will need for insurance purposes. These include a certificate of fitness (COF) and a buoyancy certificate. The dealer will help you acquire all of this paperwork too.
Boating really is one of the very best ways to relax and unwind in nature. And with South Africa’s mild climate, we get to use our boats almost all year round. Properly cared for and maintained, there’s no reason why your boat shouldn’t provide you with years of fun, as well as maintain its resale value – making it a worthwhile investment!