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So, you've decided to buy your first boat! Congrats! Now where do you start?
Firstly, decide whether you want a new or used boat. How do you decide that? Well, each has its pros and cons. A new boat will obviously come straight from a dealer or manufacturer in what should be perfect working condition (although there are always little glitches). New boat, new engines, no dings or scratches, and a warranty. These things are all great, but they come at a price, a much higher price than a used boat. Used boats have been tried and proven. They have dings and scratches, but they may also have been upgraded with the latest and greatest extra equipment at a cheaper price than buying it new for a new boat. It's a matter of weighing your options and figuring out what will work best for you. Keep in mind that a boat is not something that is normally used on a daily basis, many used boats are only ran a few times a month and the hours on them will probably be low, as will the price of that used boat compared to a new boat.
Now that you've decided between new and used boats, you have to decide on what style of boating you will do. Are you going to be a leisurely cruiser, or someone who fishes all day? Will it be just you on the boat or will you be bringing along your family and friends? These are the questions that really need to be decided on before you write that check for your first boat. You don't want to end up with a center console fishing boat with no seats, when all you really use your boat for is cruising with the family on Sundays, or a flats boat when your intention is to take weekend trips. Really research the type of boat that will suit you, and talk with others who have similar boats. Most boaters are more than willing to talk about their boats and experiences. Even consider renting the type of boats you are interested in before hand. This will ensure that you can handle that particular type of boat and it will accommodate you and your needs.
Used boats will typically come with life jackets, vhf, dock lines, and needed safety equipment. Having said that, one should still expect to shell out somewhere around a thousand dollars (depending on the size of the boat) for issues that were not brought to light at the time of purchase. Be smart, talk with the owner of the boat if possible and see if they kept up with the maintenance of the boat and its engines. If you don't feel confident taking their word for it, hire a licensed marine surveyor. This may be a little on the pricey side, but it will give you peace of mind about the investment you are making. Most importantly: Never buy a boat without a sea trail. If you haven't been on the boat while it is running, how can you possibly know what you are getting yourself into? Warranties on new boats and engines are great, but don't think that just because you bought new everything will run smooth. There will always be kinks to work out.
New boats will not come with all the things that many used boats arrive with. Dock lines, life jackets, and sometimes even electronics will need to be purchased. If you are someone who will probably keep the same boat for a very long period of time, this may be the best option for you, being that everything will be brand new it will last longer. Used boats are better buys for people who intend to upgrade after a few years.
Now that you've decided on the important things, such as: new or used, and style of boat you need, become a smart boater. Look into a boater's safety course. It will make you feel more confident as well as give your passengers a sense of comfort. Get used to your new boat by taking a few short trips without any passengers to distract you. Play with the handling of the boat and how to dock, so that when it comes time to invite everyone out on your new boat you don't look like a boating novice. Most importantly, be safe and have fun!
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