In many ways, buying a boat is kind of like buying a house.
It’s an investment in your future – a high maintenance asset that requires ongoing love and care. Needless to say, it’s got to be perfect. The question is, where do you start? There are many different types of pleasure boat on the market. Which one is right for your lifestyle and sailing abilities?
Whether you’re browsing for multihulls or checking out motor yachts for sale, there are some important things to consider. For instance, what are your plans for the vessel? Are you going to stay close to shore or embark on epic ocean voyages? Shopping for a boat is about finding a vessel that aligns with your specific needs, so think carefully about your goals.
This article explores some of the things to consider when looking for your next sailing vessel.
Adoption or Splurge
The first decision is whether you want a brand new boat or a second hand one. While most would, ideally, prefer a new vessel, buying preloved is a great way to save cash. It’s a lot like buying a car because depreciation is highest during the first year of use.
This makes second-hand boats an economical choice. Just make sure the vessel is thoroughly inspected for faults and weaknesses. When buying used, repairs aren’t covered by a warranty. You don’t want to be surprised by a litany of problems that could have been easily avoided.
Finding the Right Size
Size can be a tricky issue because it affects many aspects of sailing. However, with clear goals in mind, it should be easy to pick a boat that offers plenty of power and space, without being too unwieldy. For instance, vessels between 20 and 40ft are perfect for rivers and lakes.
If you’re planning to head out onto the open ocean, it might be worth investing in something a little bigger. The important thing is to balance space and comfort with power and agility because your sailboat should always be fun to pilot.
This is also related to a few other aspects of boating, like getting the right boat anchors and docking equipment, depending on what kind of sailing you want to do.
Pondering the Quiet Life
You don’t have to buy a traditional sailboat to get out on the water. If you’d prefer something low maintenance, you should opt for a motor yacht. They’re easy to drive and great for high powered activities like jet skiing. They also move pretty fast and can cover a lot of ground.
On the other hand, if you’re keen to master the art of blue water cruising, pick a conventional sailboat. They’re a lot more complex and even stubborn at times, but learning how to captain these vessels is a highly-rewarding experience.
Giving It Plenty of Time
Before you commit to a purchase, ask yourself if you’ve got enough time for a boat. Even when they’re out of the water, sailing vessels need a lot of care and maintenance. Consequently, the best way to maximise their value is to use them on a regular basis.
If you know you’ll struggle to find the time, consider waiting until your lifestyle is less busy. Or, think about buying a boat that you can rent out when it’s not in use. Lots of people allow their vessels to be chartered because it brings in extra cash and keeps them in good condition.
Sorting Suitable Storage
You’ll need a place to store your boat in winter and during seasons when it’s not out on the water. This is something that should be considered as early as possible. Don’t make it an afterthought, because it will influence how much money and time you invest each year.
There are several different options. You can keep your boat in a trailer if you’re planning to travel between different waterways. This is probably the best route for those who prefer to stick to rivers and lakes. The most common option is docking at a home port marina.
Why Buying a Boat Might Just Change Your Life
The decision to buy a boat is a big one. Not only will it take up lots of time, but it’ll also find its way into your heart quicker than you might expect. The seafaring lifestyle is infectious and exhilarating.
Once you’ve got a taste of adventure out on the water, you’ll realise nothing else compares.
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