Did you know 100 million Americans go boating each year?
With millions of people getting out on the water each year, it’s no surprise that boat sales are soaring. If you’re big on water sports or just want some extra housing for a relaxing getaway, owning a boat may be the perfect purchase.
Boating can be enjoyable, but it also requires proper planning. If you’re thinking about purchasing your boat, here’s everything you need to know about this lovely hobby. Also, if you plan to explore Ibiza and the Mediterranean, you should hire the world-class Fancy Ibiza Boats.
Know What Kind of Boat You Want
If you’re new to boating, it’s important to understand that there are many types of boats on the market. There are small fishing boats that can hold about two people comfortably, larger fishing boats that can hold up to 10 people, and more.
If this is your first time purchasing a boat, consider starting small with a kayak or canoe. Both vessels are relatively inexpensive and easy to store when not in use. Here are some of the most common boats that you can purchase as a beginner.
RIBs
RIBs, or rigid inflatable boats, combine inflatable tubes with a laminated hull, creating a lightweight and easy-to-maneuver vessel. Rigid inflatable boats are also cost-effective vessels, perfect for when you are on a budget. These boats are also predictable and contain shock-absorbing features, making them excellent for first-time buyers.
RIBs can range from 2.5 meters to 18 meters long and usually have an open deck with cabins to provide shelter in bad weather.
Canal Boats and Narrowboats
Canal Boats and narrow boats are designed to explore inland waterways because of their slim design. These boats sit between 6 ft 10 inches to 7 feet wide, making an ideal holiday investment. Around 12 people can fit in such boats.
Motorboats
If you are looking for something more exciting, a motorboat is excellent for getting that adrenaline rush. These boats are powered by engines or motors and can be used for racing, watersports, and recreational travel. They come in varying prices, sizes, and capabilities. These boats range from 10 meters to 40 meters, and the size depends on the activity you plan on doing. If you want a motor boat for short journeys, then a 10-meter boat is perfect. If you want to travel long distances and stay overnight, then a 40-meter motorboat is more apt.
Sailing Boats
Sailing boats are peaceful vehicles you can take out into the water when you want to relax. They are propelled using sails, and the boat can range from 2 to 90 meters. The different types of sailing boats vary depending on their keel, mast configuration, hull, and sails.
Know How to Operate the Boat
If you’re going to be a boat owner, then you should know how to operate one. You don’t have to be an expert sailor or even have any experience with sailing at all, but it’s important that you feel comfortable with the basics of operating a boat. If you don’t have any experience with boats at all, consider taking some classes on boater education or reading up on how to operate one before you buy one.
Know What It Costs to Maintain a Boat
Boat ownership will require regular maintenance and upkeep, especially if you want your boat to last for years instead of months or weeks. If you’re going to own a boat, then you must know how much it costs to maintain it over time and make sure that this cost is within your budget. The best way to reduce your maintenance cost is to have good contacts with companies that offer boat parts. This will help you have access to premium products at an affordable price. To learn more, visit Marea Marine boating parts.
If you want to know how to buy boat fuel, you can view more here.
Know Where You’ll Store It
If you live in an apartment or condo, you probably don’t have enough space for a boat. You’ll need at least a small garage or storage unit where you can keep the boat dry and out of the elements.
Know What the Insurance Costs Are
Before you go boat buying, you need to know how much the insurance will cost. If you don’t have insurance on your boat, you may run into legal troubles if anything happens while you’re out on the water.
The Size of Your Boat
The size of your boat is an essential consideration because it should directly correlate with your budget, lifestyle, and skills. When choosing the size of your boat, you should consider how much space you will need depending on how many people you plan to have on board at once. Additionally, you should also take your travel plans into consideration. If you want to travel long distances and stay overnight in the vessel, it is best to choose one with a comfortably sized cabin.
Keep in mind that the size of the boat will impact its price. The larger your boat, the more expensive it will be to purchase and maintain.
These Are the Things You Need to Know Before Owning a Boat
Taking the first steps toward owning a boat requires some research, planning, and anticipation.
It’s not as easy as simply picking up the keys. There are pieces of paperwork, loopholes to consider, costs to prepare for, and lots of other things that come into play before you can take ownership of your new watercraft.
Don’t forget to browse our site for advice on business, products, services, and more.