First of all, should you?
- Do you think that you have the time? Well most people think they do, but the truth is only about 10% at the most have time to use and maintain the boats. It’s easy to use a boat, but how about the hassle of washing it down, hauling it around, checking up on it, working on all the equipment that is constantly in need of repairs.
- Do you think you can afford it? No not just buying it, that’s the cheap part. How about insurance, moorage, divers, trailer repairs, engine and outdrive repairs, transmission repairs, towing bills or insurance policies, zinc, bottom paint, deteriorating canvas, corroded rail fittings, dead batteries, corroded trailer lighting, deteriorating carpeting, weathering cushions, updating flare gun kits, buying new equipment, new fenders, ropes, hoses for washdown, teak oil, wax, fishing equipment, new VHF radios, fish finders, gps, radar, etc.
- O.K. Now that you know you have the time and the money to own a boat. What kind do you want? What do you want VS. what does your wife or girlfriend or kids want? What are you going to use it for? How long do you want it for? What are you going to do with it in the winter months? What are you going to tow it with? Where are you going to store it? Who is going to wash and wax it after using it? Who is going to go with you? Who is going to repair it?
- What do you need? Everybody thinks that they are going to take long trips a few times a year and it would be nice to have a big cabin and all the best comforts, T.V., microwave, shower etc.
- If you can, try to go out to sea with some people to see, what you really would like VS. what you can afford, ask questions.
- Most times, boats can be purchased to suit individual preferences, there are so many layouts available, shop around. It’s a big investment.