What to Consider When Buying Your First Boat

Boat shows are a wonderful way to begin your new boat journey.

At this time of year, most boats are wrapped up for the winter, fishing gear is stored away, and those warm days of boating have given way to cold days of skiing or huddling under a blanket on your couch watching movies.

It might not seem like it, but this is actually one of the most exciting times of the year for boaters.

Attendees enjoying the feel of this boat at the New England Boat Show. Photo/NEBS

That’s because it’s boat show season, when boaters get to tour a wide selection of gorgeous new boats.

If you’ve never owned a boat before, but are eyeing this year’s boat shows because you’re thinking of buying one, the season is even more exciting for you. You’re considering making a purchase that could in many ways change your life, providing you with long days spent fishing, weekends spent cruising, and evenings spent on the water socializing with friends.

But there’s a lot to think about when buying your first boat. Here’s a few things to consider to help you on your journey.

How will you use your boat?

With so many styles of boats available, you should consider how you will use your boat and then pick out a vessel to match your needs. Do you plan to use it for fishing, cruising, or for watersports with the family? Such considerations will help determine the size, layout, and amenities you need.

Shot of the floor at the New England Boat Show. Photo/NEBS

Where will you keep your boat?

One of the biggest considerations for new boaters is where they will keep their vessel. Will you keep your boat in a slip at a marina or on a mooring? Or are you planning to keep it at home and trailer it? You also need to consider if come winter you’ll store it on your property or if you’ll pay for storage at a facility.

What certification do you need?

Most states require boaters to have some type of boating education certification, so check on what your state requires. If you plan to boat in neighboring states, check if they accept your state’s certification or if you need one specific to that state.

Handling the walk-through and sea trial.

A boat for sale might look nice, but give it a thorough inspection to be sure it’s in good shape. Inspect everything on it, from the deck and fittings to the engine and machinery. If you’re satisfied, try it out to see how it handles. Consider how fast it goes and how responsive it is. If you’re still interested, and the boat is in the water, have it hauled out to give it a more thorough inspection and make sure there are no problems below the waterline.

Closing the deal.

Don’t end up paying more than you should. Try not to be emotional when negotiating the price. Determine the boat’s value to you and try to stay close to it. Also, if you’re buying a used boat from a boatyard, check that there are no outstanding bills or liens on the boat.