There is no better feeling than taking your very own boat out for the weekend. You load up with drinks and snacks before sailing out into the vast blue ocean. You can take a trip down the coast, making stops at your favourite spots. Perhaps you can do a little fishing from the side of the boat or take a snorkeling trip on the reefs. Maybe you’re a watersports enthusiast and you can hitch up your wakeboard behind the boat. Whatever you do with your boat, it will give you freedom to play and explore.
Of course, the first thing you need to do is buy your boat! It’s not as easy as it might seem at first. There are hundreds of options out there, and each suited to the lifestyle of the buyer. Everything from budget to passengers to mooring should be considered before signing on the dotted line. Your experience with boats is key too. Some require some real skill to tame, while other cruisers are simple and easy.
Mooring your own boat is the perfect way to add to your ocean life. If you are lucky enough to live by the sea, you’ll stare with envy at your neighbors as they take their yacht out. Trust us, a boat will bring joy and freedom to your life. If you’ve got children, it’s even better! Have we convinced you? If so, here’s how you choose that all-important boat or yacht.
Budget
Your first job is to set a realistic budget. A boat is a big expense and there are lots of factors to consider when it comes to buying one. First of all, if you’re upgrading to a new boat, you’ll need to sell your current yacht or donate your boat. Raising that money will help contribute to your new model. Make sure you do plenty of research on what’s out there and fully understand the average cost of buying. Set yourself a limit and stick to it! Next, make a note of the costs involved with running your yacht. There will be charges for mooring, maintenance, and fuel. Factor these into your monthly budget.
Activities
Most boats are built for specific activities and purposes. Consider how you’ll use your new yacht on a weekly basis. If you’re a keen fisherman, you’ll need a boat that is designed and built with fishing in mind. If you’re a water sports fanatic, you’re looking for a boat that will suit your lifestyle. It will be fast and have plenty of pulling power to suit your windsurfing or wakeboarding. If you’re looking for a more casual cruiser, consider whether you’ll use it overnight or just during the day. Each of these considerations will help determine which is the best model for you.
Passengers
You’ll need to make sure your boat is appropriate for you and your family. Boats can often be cramped and space is tight. When browsing a new boat, take the whole family with you. Let everyone get on board and fill the space as you would on the ocean. Is everyone comfortable on board? If you’re looking for a single-manned boat, you can opt for something a little smaller.
Experience
Your personal level of experience is important when thinking about your next boat. Sailing, for example, takes a lot of skill and precise movements to perfect. If you’re an experienced seafarer, you’re more likely to handle the difficult sailing boats. If you’re new to boating, however, you’ll need something a little easier. Cruising boats and yachts are much easier to handle.
Location and Mooring
Your location is very important when it comes to choosing the right boat. Where will you moor the yacht and what are the restrictions? Are you on a river or part of an ocean port community? Every location is different and there are varying rules to abide by. If you’re looking for a superyacht, make sure there is space for it! Ensure you fully understand the costs and restrictions with mooring in your area.
Size, Propulsion, and Transportation
Finally, you ought to consider the logistics and practicalities of your new yacht. There are various types of boat propulsion, each suited to the location and lifestyle of the captain. You can choose between an outboard or inboard engine for starters. There are also jet propulsion models, sail power, and manpower! Each have varying degrees of power and speed, so choose wisely. Lastly, choose a boat that you can transport. Some are fitted with trailerable fittings so you can hitch it up and move it. Others are water-bound only. Again, choose carefully here.
Now that you’re loaded up with knowledge and information, it’s time to choose your next boat! Good luck and enjoy your new-found freedom.
Image Credits: Photo courtesy of New England Boat Show.