How to buy a boat? Everything you need to know

01.12.2020

So, you're in the market for a boat but don't know where to start and how this process even works? Then this is the perfect article for you! In the following few paragraphs, you will learn all the most important things you need to be aware of when buying a boat, and we'll take a look at specific boat types, too. There's something for everyone out there.

A couple of minutes is all you need for this text, and this will certainly be time well spent. Let's go!

Buying a boat – still a great decision 

If you love sailing, buying a boat will immediately strike you as a great decision. The freedom you feel when you're out there, the sun's rays, and the sound of the waves crashing against your hull, that's what it's all about.

However, sailing in your own boat is a particularly safe way to travel these days – you don't get in contact with many people and are thus less exposed to the ongoing pandemic. As a matter of fact, this is one of the main reasons why nautical tourism remained fairly popular last summer.

In addition to that, you can easily rent out a boat when you're not using it because many people are looking for something they can rent out as a one-time deal. This way, your boat works for you even when you're not using it, and what you can earn this way is often more than enough to cover at least the necessary maintenance.

Financially, renting your boat out, especially if you can do that in peak season, is a great move to make.

Types of boats – choose the right one! 

Boats come in all shapes and sizes, and the purpose for which they were built can vary greatly. For example, suppose you're looking for something that will make your vacation more memorable. In that case, you could go for a fast motorboat or a more luxurious catamaran, and even the catamaran has many different subcategories.

The point is that there is a lot to consider before you find the perfect boat for you, but some categories do stand out as more popular than others.

Fishing boats

If you fancy a fishing trip with your buddies, or if you'd just like some quality time for yourself while trying to get them to bite, a fishing boat is a perfect answer. These guys are tough and durable and can take quite a punishment at sea, which makes them ideal for most weather conditions you could encounter.

A special sub-class of fishing boats are boats for big-game fishing. Most commonly, these are rented out to passionate fishermen who are looking to fish for all sorts of tuna and to have some great fun along the way.

They range from less than 10 meters to more than 30 and beyond, but their powerful engine makes sure you can easily reach the best spots.

Front bow, trolling motors, and outboard power are all pretty much standard features of this type of boat.

Sailboats

Sailboats are a common choice among people who like to take long trips and explore coasts for days, if not weeks on end.

But there is actually quite a lot of sailboats for sale, and they can be divided according to several criteria: hull (monohulls, catamarans, multi-hulls), keel (full-length, bulb, bilge, etc.), mast (sloop, ketch).

In addition, you should consider their size, the number of cabins, and the type of sails they have, as well as many other elements. You'd do well to ask for a test drive before you make your final decision, just to be on the safe side.

Obviously, there's also the question of the engine and where you want it if you want it at all.

Do note, however, that this can be an incredibly satisfying and relaxing way to sail, especially if you can harness the wind's power. These days, you can find sailboats with fantastic interiors and plenty of room for an enjoyable cruise.

And always consider how many people might be aboard - the chances are you're not buying this for yourself alone.

Yachts 

When you hear the word "yacht", you probably immediately think of luxury. For a very good reason, because these boats are tailor-made for relaxing and enjoyment.

Your standard motor yacht will be at least 12 meters in length and meticulously equipped with various luxury features that make you feel right at home when staying here.

Again, yachts can be broken down into smaller categories, such as sailing yachts, mega yachts, and others.

The slick modern design will make sure you make your presence known wherever you come, but you can easily spend days at a time at sea in these boats just enjoying a good swim.

Speedboats 

Speedboats are meant to be used for quick day trips to a nearby island or beach. Not just that, they make the ride to your destination so much more exciting. The power and the roar of their engines will make you forget about all your problems.

These come in a variety of different shapes and sizes. Still, if you're looking for something for leisurely activities, you'll be happy to know that you can find models that easily fit two families aboard.

The hull is usually V-shaped and made of fibreglass, which helps boost the boat's performance. Usually, you will not get a cabin here, but that's OK because this allows you to enjoy the speed to the fullest.

New or used boat? 

Just as is the case with cars, a prospective buyer has a choice between new and used vessels. And since buying a boat is a big decision for most people, the idea of a used boat can seem quite attractive. But is that so?

Buying a new boat certainly has many advantages. First and foremost, they are covered by a warranty, and you can expect the latest technology to be used on them, be that in their systems or in some of the nifty gadgets in their interior.

A big deal is that you can also order a boat made precisely to your specification, and the financing part can be a whole lot easier because it's much easier to get a loan.

On the other hand, used boats are much more affordable, and their value doesn't drop as quickly.

A new boat will lose at least 25% of its value as soon as it's purchased, but that is not the case here.

Moreover, you will have quite a lot of models to choose from because many used boats are traded in, plus there's always room for negotiation to hammer out a deal that fits you best.

Conclusion 

Ultimately, though, the decision of buying a boat is entirely up to you. However, you now see that there are quite a few options at your disposal – fishing boats, yachts, sailboats, new boats, pre-owned boats, there's a lot to consider.

A boat is something that can provide incredible experiences for you and your loved ones and can even be an excellent investment if you decide to rent it out.

Be realistic about your needs and resources and, with Euronautic's help, you will find the perfect one for you!

 

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