Are you an avid water enthusiast on a lookout for a new vessel? I am sure a thousand questions may be bombarding your mind before you venture to purchase your pride. Which boat is best to buy new or pre-owned? Where to buy a boat from? Where to store a boat? It is indeed a difficult task to figure out the nuances considering the investment involved.
Let/’s look into the things to consider before buying a new or used boat that must be clear in your mind before you step out to make a deal.
1) Shortlist the perfect boat that caters to all your needs.
Like cars, there is no dearth in the varieties of boats available for sale. Sailboats, speedboats, cruiser, pontoon boats, fishing boats; the list is endless. With the innumerable options to choose from you need to first ensure the purpose for which you would be using your boat. Would you use a sports car to commute on off-roads? Similarly, boats that are designed for lakes are different from the ones that can be used for oceans.
In addition to the purchase cost, you will have to shell out every month for storing your boat. Monthly storage costs will apply if you choose to store it at the marina. This cost varies on the size of the boat. Needs for winter storage must be confirmed in advance from the dealer or marina manager. Even if you have a personal docking space, constraints shall surely exist for space. Thus, the vehicle size and costs that it may incur are significant when choosing your boat
2) Make up your mind if you want to opt for a used boat or invest in a brand new one.
The primary consideration for determining which boat to buy relies on your budget. Before your decision, we will scrutinize the tips to choose right boat: new or pre-owned
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Pre-owned boats
They are available in abundance at much lower rates than the brand new version. Even though the initial investment may be lesser, there are several hidden costs that you may have to be prepared to incur in the future. Any second-hand purchase requires a thorough investigation to check the overall functioning of the equipment. Boats require microscopic checking of the systems, compartments, and accessories to give a clue of the overall maintenance.
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Let’s delve deep into what you need to verify in used boats.
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Test the Engine First
The heart and soul of your carrier need to be in full working condition. On startup, you first need to check the noise level of the engine. If there is excessive noise, smoke, or vibration on ignition then you need to ponder for a moment. This may be due to old gas or too much oil, which can be overcome when you use the boat for the first time. But if it is due to low compression in cylinders it would be a costly affair. The other warning signal you need to vary about are plugs covered with carbon deposits. Trouble can arise due to signs of engine overheating like melted insulation on wires or peeled labels.
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Check the engine oil
When feeling the engine oil, if it feels gritty it means that the engine is worn out. The grit is the metal filings that get mixed with the engine oil. Another confirmatory test would be to ensure that the engine oil is not milky. If it is, it signifies that water is entering the engine. There may be many underlying reasons for this, but if it is due to a cracked engine block then start looking for a new dealer.
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Ensure the functioning of electrical systems
Check all electronic devices including lights one at a time. Although replacing light bulbs or batteries is no big deal, any fault in the wiring could give a pain in the neck. It is not all that easy to change the wiring of boats that run underneath the decks or into closed compartments. Check the fuse box and the general style of wiring to draw a brief conclusion. If the wiring is too-entangled or messy then fault-finding will be a big headache in the future.
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Inspect for damage in the body
Small cracks due to spider webs are no biggie, but fixing them on a priority basis is quintessential to avoid further damage. A crack must not be above 2 inches in length or it might entail extensive repairs.
The hull to deck joint is very pivotal and needs to be checked by identifying any faults in the rub rail. Use a torch or flashlight to detect any potential damage or separation on the stringers. If the stringers break or separate from the hull serious problems can be caused. Any structural failure is a clear indication of a bad deal.
Wobbly seat bolts are not a cause of concern as it may be due to some strain exerted. Bad upholstery can be washed or replaced, but molds spread rapidly which should flag a warning bell. You must check if the rot has not penetrated the floor. If at all there is any rotting, molding, cracking, or moisture in the areas of the hull, transom or floor look for a better deal.
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General tips
Proper working of the bilge pump is of great concern which must be ensured. The alternator and power-steering belts must be replaced every 100 hours. So if they are in a dilapidated condition you know what to do. Check the additional accessories like life jackets, lines, and fenders too. Each small cost can add up in the long run.
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Go for a sea trial and marine survey
Do not venture into buying a boat without a sea trial and a marine survey. If you lack expertise then consult a professional or a friend. A trial can help find out any hidden flaws and save you from any unwanted worries. Do not sign on the dotted line unless you have confirmed for yourself if the boat has all the features you are looking out for.
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New boats
The fun begins when you start looking for your coveted asset. The touch and feel of a new boat cannot be described in words. This is the most enthralling factor when purchasing a new boat as compared to a pre-owned one. Whether you decide to search online, go for boat shows 2020, or choose a local dealer, don/’t be afraid to ask questions.
Find the right boat dealer who can offer the best prices. Check for warranty and services as they are valuable. Ascertain which parts would be covered under warranty and what after-sales services would be provided.
Click pictures, make comparisons, and roam from one dealer to another. Would you buy a house or a car without a proper survey? Be well informed of the market and check the boat values and pricing to negotiate the best prices. You can apply for a boat loan to manage your finances.
3) Lastly, it’s time for celebration. Finalize the deal and look into the legalities of insurance, taxes, and registration.
Any potential hidden costs such as insurance and registration cost, after-sales maintenance, delivery, and accessories costs must be identified before striking the final deal. Do you want to be shocked seeing the difference in the sticker and final pricing? Try to bargain till your last breath to procure any additional accessories like safety kits or adventure activity kits. Understand the delivery and maintenance procedures clearly. To gain confidence, schedule a trial to master the functioning of the boat or enroll for a boater education course.
Conclusion
Whether you decide to buy a new or pre-owned boat is your choice. With our boat buying tips your job will now be easier. But base your decision on trust. No other dealer shall offer you the trust and services as Premier Watersports.
In our pre-owned boat category, we have two choices for you. The first one is a 2012 G3 1756 Aluminium Fishing, 17-inch length boat with a 70hp Yamaha Four Stroke engine. The other one is a 24 inch 5 centimeter 2017 Supra SE 450 model which has a 6.2 Indmar 440 Raptor engine. From our tips mentioned above, you very well know what/’s best for you.
Our new boat category has an 8 seater 2021 Yamaha AR 195 that is about to hit the stands. It has a supercharged 1.8 250 HP engine in two classy colors (black and sapphire). Yamaha AR 190 in suede grey color has the same configuration besides the engine HP which is 180. Take a look at the chic 22 inches 10 centimeters 2021 Blue Special Purchase Sylvan with a Yamaha Four-stroke engine.