There are many factors to consider before buying a new or used boat. The most important is how will the boat be used and how many people may be on the boat with you. If you are going to fish then obviously a fishing boat is a good choice or possibly a pontoon boat. My father has fished successfully out of one for years and my kids love it.

Maybe you are going to ski, wake board, tube or any of the numerous new toys that can be pulled behind a boat, and fish. Then maybe a fish and ski or some boat models come in a ski and fish. If you are only going to ski there are many boats dedicated for this purpose to choose from.

Motor yachts and express cruisers are very similar. They both have the comforts of home: state rooms, kitchens, bathrooms, even televisions and DVD players. Motor yachts/Aft Cabins usually have more inside room than an express cruiser. Make sure to think carefully when deciding between the two. If you were going to stay on the boat for the weekend either of these boat types may be a good choice. If you like to go anchor for the day a motor yacht or express cruiser is nice to have, especially if you have small children like I do.

There are hundreds of models to choose from, so when deciding keep in mind what works for you and your family.

When looking at your purchase make sure to check the market pricing to verify you are investing at the appropriate price.  Majority of dealers use a black book or ABOS and should be willing to share this infomation freely.  If they push back you may want to reconsider your purchase.  You can also use the NADA link on the bottom of this page which includes consumer pricing for new and used boats.  One disclaimer:  the used boat market pricing varies substantially depending on hours of use, condition, ow well the boat is maintained and whether it has been in salt or fresh water.  For larger boats you will want to get a survey performed which will give you an appriasal value.  Depending on the boat this may also be required by your insurance company.  For more information regarding this and appraisals click here.

Once you find a boat that fits your needs and wants, it is best to take it out on the water for a test drive.  Do not purchase a boat without seeing how it performs in your location.  You can make any deal contingent on a sea trial.  We once had a deal signed on a boat we loved, but after the trial we discovered many issues.  As a result we did not purchase. 

Another factor to consider is the additional cost involved in maintaining a boat. Along with the monthly payments there maybe: registration fees, insurance, dock fees, maintenance and repairs, taxes, fuel and oil expenses and winter storage or winterization for boats that stay in the water. Please be aware that boating can be costly.

Choosing the right boat is important.  I hope visiting our site help you gain further information and if at first you don’t succeed try, try again!

Happy Boating