Home Asian Countries The Nautical Naïve – A Beginner’s Guide To Boat Buying

The Nautical Naïve – A Beginner’s Guide To Boat Buying

Everyone has that fantasy of sailing over the water while feeling the wind course over our skin and the smell and taste of salt and sea hanging thick in the air, as we soak up the warm sunshine. For many of us, this image that repeats in our psyche is but a dream, but for you, it is about to become a reality.

Once you have the funds to purchase this long-awaited dream, you need a little know-how to ensure that you secure the right boat. Talking to others who own boats can help but the only way to know what is out there is to visit showrooms, look in the classifieds and tour the local boatyards. Shopping for catamarans for sale New Zealand allows buyers the opportunity to browse a wide range of enticing options.

Let’s take a look at some of the more important considerations buyers should make when looking for your next boat.

Budget Realistically

Just as with a car or a home, you are not just paying a monthly payment. There are other costs associated with purchasing a boat. In addition to the monthly payment, shoppers can expect to pay registration costs, mooring or docking fees, gas, storage, trailer costs, taxes, and insurance. These are just some of the costs associated with maintaining the boat but there are other costs involved in keeping the boat in good condition. It is also important to keep in mind that going overboard with the number of accessories you buy can drive the price of the boat up quickly.

Building Your Dream

Knowing the size of your boat is important as well. Remember, you will ultimately have to manoeuvre it in open water, so you have to be comfortable with its size. Boats come in a range of sizes from very small dinghies to super-yachts. Modern boats also come with a range of features, including attachments for jet skis, sleeping quarters, and motorised and non-motorised options. With so many options to choose from, there really is something for everyone, so take some time to figure out what your dream boat looks like.

But First, Know Your Needs

While it might seem obvious that your personal needs are a huge factor in choosing a boat, knowing how you plan to use the boat is important as well. If you are going to sail in large bodies of water, a small boat might not suffice. However, a yacht might be able to handle these conditions and allow you to enjoy your sailing confident in the abilities of your vessel. If it’s speed you are looking for, more than sport, then a motorised boat is a more appropriate choice. On the other hand, those who want to enjoy days of leisure on the water might find something with more stability like a catamaran to be a better option.

Visually Inspect The Boat

Similar to when buying a home or a car, it’s important that you take the time to inspect the boat for mildew, moulding, and damage that might interfere with the workings on the boat. Other damages you might want to look out for are things such as leaks, wobbling propellers, dents, and scratches. While finding damage does not have to be the end of the deal, you should take this into consideration when bargaining and negotiate a price that both parties are happy with. A thorough inspection will give you an idea of how much money you will have to spend on any repairs in the future and allow you to make a more informed decision.

Buying Your Perfect Boat

Whether choosing a new or used vessel, spending some time boat shopping quickly gives you an idea of pricing and lets you see what’s currently on the market in your price bracket. Buying a boat is all about fulfilling those dreams of having the freedom and control to chart the oceans in your perfect boat. Finding a boat that fits well and is easy to manoeuvre can be the difference between a great and good experience and ensures that you are comfortable and safe out on the water. Be sure to spend some time researching your options and consider what you are going to use your boat for. With this information, you’ll be able to find the boat of your dreams and set sail with confidence.

Inflatable vs non inflatable boats

If you’re in the market for a boat you can consider a lot of different types of boats. On difference to consider is to buy an inflatable boat or non inflatable. The great thing about inflatable boats is that they don’t use that much space. You can quickly inflate and deflate the boats. They usually have more than 1 air chamber. So if one is punctured, you can still get to shore without sinking.

Non inflatable boats are more durable. They can take a hit before really getting damaged. They are more sturdy and less susceptible to turbulence. The on inflatable versions are usually a bit more expansive. But mounting an engine is a lot easier and more safe. Inflatable boats usually have you peddle your way to where you want to go.