Did you know that boating sales have risen by 34% in the past year? Sales have skyrocketed and show no signs of slowing down. And it’s no wonder since boating is one of the most popular and pleasurable activities out there.
Have you been thinking about buying a boat? Before you make a boat purchase, there are some things that you need to consider to help you make the right decision. Check out this guide to help walk you through the important things you need to know about boat ownership.
1. What Type of Boat Do You Need?
The first thing to determine when buying a boat is the type. Are you interested in going sailing, and need a sailboat, or will your boat be for entertaining or fishing? Or maybe you want a houseboat to live on occasionally, or a yacht for long pleasure cruises–but no matter what you desire, there’s a boat type out there for you.
2. What Is Your Budget?
It’s no secret that buying a boat can be expensive. But it’s important to factor in not just the cost of the boat, but also boat storage and boat maintenance, fuel, insurance, and other supplies. Make sure you can afford the monthly costs and upkeep before making the investment.
3. Have You Considered Your Location For Boating?
The next thing to consider is your geographic location. What kind of body of water are you near, and what type of boat is appropriate for that? Also, think about how long the potential boating season is in terms of weather and temperature.
4. Are You Prepared for Your Boat Purchase With Insurance?
Before you can skip ahead to the fun part where you are on the water with your boat, you need to make sure it is insured first. You should have it insured against any accidents or potential claims. There are many different kinds of insurance so be sure to research damage to your boat, other vessels, collision injuries, loss of property on board, and reimbursement for towing and other emergency services.
5. Do You Need a Boat License?
Finally, you’ll want to find out if you need a boating license where you live. Regulations vary from state to state, so be sure to do your research. Some states require that you take a safety program before you can get on board and take your boat out on the water.
Ready To Buy a Boat?
Now that you have learned about the top things to consider before making a boat purchase, you can make an informed decision. Buying a boat is a significant investment that requires a budget for maintenance, storage, fuel, and more. And don’t forget to look into insurance and licenses in your area before you take it out on the open water.
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