Five things to consider when buying your first boat
If you’re a beginner wanting to get into boating, getting your head around what’s what can seem daunting at first. Perhaps the most important thing is to do as much research as you can before you buy. This can help you avoid any unnecessary hassles, expense and problems. From deciding on the right first boat, to learning about boating safety, there is plenty to take on board.
We’ve put together a list of five things you should consider when starting out to help ensure a safe and enjoyable boating experience.
1. Budget
When you are thinking about buying a boat, the first thing to consider is your budget – both for the initial outlay and for ongoing costs. Remember that the boat’s price tag is just the beginning of the expenses. Maintaining, operating and insuring the boat are some of the recurring costs that come hand in hand with owning a boat. Find out as much as you can about how much running your new boat will cost so you can make an informed decision as to whether a particular model is in your price range.
2. Size
Generally, the price of a boat is related to its size. This means that your budget will generally dictate the type of boat you can get. It is not recommended to purchase a large boat if you are just starting out on the water. These kinds of vessels will need an experienced handler. The size of the boat you need will also depend on your intended purpose for the vessel. If you are planning family days out, obviously you will need a boat that can accommodate a few people and their belongings comfortably. If you’re more of a lone ranger, a smaller boat will probably be more apt.
3. Activities
Consider what activities you will be using the boat for. First, think about where you want to use it. You may want to use the boat for inland lake fishing, coastal fishing, runabouts, water-skiing or leisure sailing. This will dictate the type of boat that is most suitable for you.
4. Drive System
The system that powers your boat can come in different forms. What you need from your first boat will influence the type of drive system you choose. You will need to decide if an inboard (motor system contained in boat), outboard (external engine – most common), or sterndrive (a combination of the two) engine would be appropriate.
5. Owning Your Boat
Once you have purchased your boat, you will need to get to know it and your equipment properly. As well as this, you should know your local area and its boating regulations to ensure you are using your boat safely and legally. You will also have to insure the boat and store it properly. Can you afford to keep the boat at the local marina, or do you have the space at home to keep it?
Boating for beginners also requires you to think about navigation and weather. Knowing about weather and sea conditions before you set off is vital. You should always check the shipping forecast beforehand, in case of dangerous sailing conditions.
designed and built in Britain. The Shetland 4 p...
£18,500
St. Neots
US gallons per hour. 19mm ID hose....
£105.99
on our river system, the Sheerline 950 has eve...
£59,950
St. Neots
extended dry running. Self primes up to 2m...
£139.99
smock features latex neck and wrist seals and...
£249.99
example of this popular inland waterways 4 ber...
£8,500
St. Neots
cover. Easily installed in line. Protects p...
£10.99
the key to any successful layering system. Our Fa...
£64.99
for your phone or GPS. Mobile Phone Holder:...
£26.99
on sailing yachts and motor cruisers.Not suitab...
£72.82