For any decision in life, there are procedures, are there not? One doesn’t pop the question on the first date (not always), and one certainly doesn’t just buy any boat without proper consideration and due diligence. Of course, this is supposed to be fun, but before we can have dessert, we must eat our vegetables. Or so it’s been said.
Following are a few top tips for picking the perfect boat.
You know your intentions. If you’re the type who regularly fantasizes about being master and commander and you want to name your vessel something like HMS Beagle and sail to the Galapagos, it could be that a sailboat is in your future.
But if you only ever wear board shorts, drive a lifted pickup, and own several custom wakeboards, a sailboat simply won’t do.
Once you know which type of boat is right for you, it’s time to figure out who your favorite manufacturer is. In your search for boats for sale, Grady-White could be a great option. Or maybe there’s another manufacturer out there that’s caught your eye. Your best favor to yourself is thorough research.
This is all terribly unexciting, yes, but in the real world, numbers matter. It’s all well and good to go around dreaming of the possibilities, but if those possibilities aren’t actually possible, Houston, we have a problem.
If you’ve ever had that conversation with a friend in which you tell them that BOAT stands for, “Bust out another thousand,” and you can’t help but allow a twinge of bitterness into your voice, you may be in over your head.
Boating is supposed to be fun, and the best way to make that happen is to boat within your means. Hard facts, but there they are.
Along those lines, you’ll want to secure financing if you’re using it, and you’ll also need to make arrangements as far as where the boat is going to be when you’re not using it. If that’s a slip, make sure it’s convenient to you, and if it’s covered storage, make sure you’re able to trailer it there and back again.
Once you’re sure about the boat you want to pursue, whether it’s new or used, you need to make arrangements for a test. This is not done casually, so if you’re just seeking a joy ride, bow out gracefully before it’s too late. It’s a big deal to accommodate this step for a buyer if the buyer turns out not to be serious.
You have one shot, so while you’re on the water, make sure your test is comprehensive. Run the vessel through its full operating range.
For instance, if it’s a wakeboard boat, ensure that all of the ballast tanks are fully functional. That will mean completely filling them, operating the boat, then pumping them dry. Test the bilge pump and the accessories (like lights, if applicable), and ensure the trailer works well.
This isn’t an opportunity to go fishing for free or anything like that, but you should make sure the vessel and all its equipment are fully seaworthy.
The only reason you should walk away after testing the vessel on the water is if something is catastrophically wrong and there is no possible remedy between buyer and seller. Usually, the test is the last step in the dance, and it’s almost a foregone conclusion that a purchase is going to happen.
Your local boat dealers in Palm Beach County are able to help at any stage of the process. It’s in the best interests of any boat dealer to get you what you want, and if you have any questions at all, they are a wealth of knowledge.
