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It can be daunting to enter the world of boating for the first time. That\u2019s why we\u2019ve put together this series of questions to guide you through your boat-buying, sea-faring process from start to finish.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n One of the main influences on boat choice is boat use. Will you be using your boat for leisure and beach trips with the family? Or are you looking for a fishing vessel?\u00a0 Consider whether you will be cruising overnight or sailing too, so you can find the right boat for you. Whatever the intended purpose, there is a boat best suited to that activity. Check out our blog on the different types of ocean boats for more guidance. <\/span><\/p>\r\n Another important factor to consider is the number of passengers you will be carrying. Whether you\u2019re flying solo or taking the in-laws out for the day, your boat needs to have the capacity to safely carry all your passengers.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n Depending on whether you\u2019re planning a river cruise or a deep-ocean fishing trip, your boat will need to be suited to your environment. It\u2019s important to do some research into the best boats for wild weather if you want to tackle the high seas, for example.<\/span><\/p>\r\n Think carefully about how many times per year you will feasibly take your boat out. If this time is scarce, you may want to look into keeping your boat somewhere safe and secure in the meantime to prevent damage or theft. Alternatively, perhaps renting a boat is the better option for you.<\/span><\/p>\r\n Boats aren\u2019t cheap. So, if you\u2019re willing to make the investment, you should make sure you\u2019ve covered all bases. Firstly, consider whether you\u2019d rather have a brand-new or pre-used boat. Secondly, whichever boat you buy should be certified. You should conduct a marine survey or a sea trial to check it is sea-worthy before paying, too. Lastly, assess your options in terms of boat financing to make sure you can cover the costs.<\/span><\/p>\r\n The boat itself isn\u2019t the only thing you\u2019ll be spending on; you\u2019ll also need to factor in costs for:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n While these costs differ depending on the size and type of boat, it\u2019s good to have a general outline of possible expenditures.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n Aside from the boat itself (and the anchor, of course), there is a long list of additional equipment and documents you will need to stay afloat.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n Boat Insurance Certificate\u00a0 A Nautical Almanac Charts\u00a01. What are you planning to use your boat for?<\/strong><\/h5>\r\n
2. Size: How many people will be using the boat?<\/strong><\/h5>\r\n
3. Location: Where will you be boating?<\/strong><\/h5>\r\n
4. Time: Where will you keep your boat when you\u2019re not using it?<\/strong><\/h5>\r\n
5. Price: How much are you willing to spend on a boat?<\/strong><\/h5>\r\n
6. Maintenance:\u00a0 Do you know the basic maintenance requirements to keep your boat afloat?<\/strong><\/h5>\r\n
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7. Fundamentals: Do you know what equipment you\u2019ll need on your boat?<\/strong><\/h5>\r\n
<\/strong>It\u2019s best to carry this document with you to minimise stress if an accident were to happen. In fact, some marinas may request your insurance certificate as a condition of entry.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n
<\/strong>Priced at around \u00a330, this document will provide you with safety advice and tidal information for the UK and Northern Europe.<\/p>\r\n
<\/strong>Available for the whole of the UK for under \u00a350, these electronic GPS systems are a necessity.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n8. Safety First: Do you know how to ensure your boat is safe?<\/strong><\/h5>\r\n