{"id":2122,"date":"2018-05-09T09:15:04","date_gmt":"2018-05-09T16:15:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.storewithneighbor.com\/storage-blog\/?p=2122"},"modified":"2024-01-29T18:03:39","modified_gmt":"2024-01-30T01:03:39","slug":"boat-buying-guide-2023","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/boat-buying-guide-2023\/","title":{"rendered":"Boat Buying Guide 2023: Tips to Buying a Boat For First-Time Boat Buyers"},"content":{"rendered":"<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC \"-\/\/W3C\/\/DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional\/\/EN\" \"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/TR\/REC-html40\/loose.dtd\">\n<html><body><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Thinking about buying your first boat?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Buying a boat is more complex than buying a car, but the same considerations come into play: <em>Should I buy <a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/buying-a-used-boat\/\">new or used?<\/a> What features do I want on my boat? Do I have enough money to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/boat-maintenance-guide\/\">properly maintain it<\/a>?<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If this is your first time buying a boat, beginning the process may be the hardest step of all. Fortunately, this boat-buying guide will be in your life raft when treading unfamiliar waters. With this guide at the ready, you&rsquo;ll be able to make a selection in terms of <em><strong>boat brand, length, options, registration, and costs.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ready to find your perfect boat? Anchor&rsquo;s up &mdash; let&rsquo;s go!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-should-i-look-for-when-buying-my-first-boat\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Should I Look for When Buying My First Boat?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are <strong>three main boat categories<\/strong> &mdash; sailboats, motorboats, and unpowered craft. <strong>Boat size can <\/strong>range from a canoe to a mega yacht &mdash; and everything in between. Some common vessels include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li> <strong style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Yacht:<\/strong><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">&nbsp;Any boat over 30 feet.<\/span> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <strong style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Fishing Boat: <\/strong><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Anglers and their boats line up in the freshwater and saltwater camps.<\/span> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <strong style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Waterskiing Boat:<\/strong><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">&nbsp;Ski boats have strong engines, space for the whole family, storage, and great towing capabilities. Characterized by sleek designs and a large wakeboard tower. These boats dominate the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tripadvisor.com\/AttractionProductReview-g34352-d11448562-Central_Florida_Everglades_Airboat_Tour_from_Orlando-Kissimmee_Florida.html\" target=\"_blank\">Orlando, Florida Everglades<\/a>, which are known as The &ldquo;North Shore&rdquo; of waterskiing.<\/span> <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The vessels above not only vary by size but also by <strong>total horsepower. <\/strong>(Note: A boat&rsquo;s total engine power is measured in <strong>horsepower<\/strong>). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because your boating experience will, largely, be shaped by the vessel you choose, you&rsquo;ll want to take this decision seriously. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-are-the-types-of-boats\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Are the Types of Boats?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img  decoding=\"async\"  src=\"data:image\/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAEAAAABAQMAAAAl21bKAAAAA1BMVEUAAP+KeNJXAAAAAXRSTlMAQObYZgAAAAlwSFlzAAAOxAAADsQBlSsOGwAAAApJREFUCNdjYAAAAAIAAeIhvDMAAAAASUVORK5CYII=\"  alt=\"Source:  Pixabay\"  class=\" pk-lazyload\"  data-pk-sizes=\"auto\"  data-pk-src=\"https:\/\/images.surferseo.art\/83a8221b-cfbc-43df-b7e9-a163f7103505.jpeg\" ><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Neighbor<\/a>&lsquo;s got you covered with lots of useful articles about boat types:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li> <a style=\"font-size: revert; font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\" href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/15-different-types-of-boats-complete-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">15 Different Types of Boats<\/a> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <a style=\"font-size: revert; font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\" href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/different-types-of-small-boats\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Different Types of Small Boats<\/a> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p><a href=\"\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/types-of-sailboats-everything-you-need-to-know\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Types of Sailboat<\/a><\/p><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <a style=\"font-size: revert; font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\" href=\"\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/ultimate-guide-for-types-of-fishing-boats\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Types of Fishing Boats<\/a> <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<html><body><div id=\"in_post\">\n    <div class=\"variant\">\r\n\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/boat-storage-near-me\" onclick=\"rudderanalytics.track('press editorial cta button', {location: 'first in post', version: '2.2'}, () =&gt; { console.log('track call'); });\">\r\n\t\t  <div class=\"first-in-post-cta\">\r\n\t\t    <header>\r\n\t\t      <h2 id=\"how-neighbor-is-changing-boat-storage\">How Neighbor is changing boat storage<\/h2>\r\n\t\t    <\/header>\r\n\t\t    <section>\r\n\t\t      <div class=\"service-option\">\r\n\t\t        <div class=\"service-option-icon\">\r\n\t\t          <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"60\" height=\"60\" viewbox=\"0 0 60 60\" fill=\"none\">\r\n\t\t            <path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M13.125 9.375C11.0539 9.375 9.375 11.0539 9.375 13.125V46.875C9.375 48.9461 11.0539 50.625 13.125 50.625H46.875C48.9461 50.625 50.625 48.9461 50.625 46.875V13.125C50.625 11.0539 48.9461 9.375 46.875 9.375H13.125ZM28.125 16.875C28.125 15.8395 28.9645 15 30 15C31.0355 15 31.875 15.8395 31.875 16.875V20.625H35.625C36.6605 20.625 37.5 21.4645 37.5 22.5C37.5 23.5355 36.6605 24.375 35.625 24.375H26.25C25.2145 24.375 24.375 25.2145 24.375 26.25C24.375 27.2855 25.2145 28.125 26.25 28.125H33.75C36.8566 28.125 39.375 30.6434 39.375 33.75C39.375 36.8566 36.8566 39.375 33.75 39.375H31.875V43.125C31.875 44.1605 31.0355 45 30 45C28.9645 45 28.125 44.1605 28.125 43.125V39.375H22.5C21.4645 39.375 20.625 38.5355 20.625 37.5C20.625 36.4645 21.4645 35.625 22.5 35.625H33.75C34.7855 35.625 35.625 34.7855 35.625 33.75C35.625 32.7145 34.7855 31.875 33.75 31.875H26.25C23.1434 31.875 20.625 29.3566 20.625 26.25C20.625 23.1434 23.1434 20.625 26.25 20.625H28.125V16.875Z\" fill=\"#005EB8\"><\/path>\r\n\t\t          <\/svg>\r\n\t\t        <\/div>\r\n\t\t        <h3 id=\"transparent-monthly-savings\">Transparent monthly savings<\/h3>\r\n\t\t        <p>Renters save 30-50% on boat storage, on average. No rate hikes.<\/p>\r\n\t\t      <\/div>\r\n\t\t      <div class=\"service-option\">\r\n\t\t        <div class=\"service-option-icon\">\r\n\t\t          <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"76\" height=\"60\" viewbox=\"0 0 76 60\" fill=\"none\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M37.55 14.4843C39.5632 13.3249 42.1354 14.2561 42.9397 16.4356L46.0933 24.9814L61.7664 24.5065C65.0406 24.4072 66.8592 28.2589 64.7021 30.7241L60.9809 34.977L60.968 34.9917L57.1326 39.375L66.1251 39.375V37.5C66.1251 36.4645 66.9646 35.625 68.0001 35.625C69.0357 35.625 69.8751 36.4645 69.8751 37.5V39.375H71.7501C72.7857 39.375 73.6251 40.2145 73.6251 41.25C73.6251 42.2856 72.7857 43.125 71.7501 43.125H69.8751V45.9375C69.8751 46.9731 69.0357 47.8125 68.0001 47.8125C66.9646 47.8125 66.1251 46.9731 66.1251 45.9375V43.125L39.8751 43.125C39.6698 43.125 39.4722 43.092 39.2873 43.031C38.2539 45.2987 35.9673 46.875 33.3126 46.875C30.6948 46.875 28.4349 45.3422 27.3817 43.125H24.2436C23.1903 45.3422 20.9305 46.875 18.3126 46.875C15.6579 46.875 13.3714 45.2987 12.3379 43.031C12.153 43.092 11.9554 43.125 11.7501 43.125H6.12512C5.08959 43.125 4.25012 42.2856 4.25012 41.25C4.25012 40.4184 4.7915 39.7133 5.54104 39.4678L3.10927 30.9566C2.43776 28.6063 4.15819 26.2522 6.6014 26.1781L17.9522 25.8342C18.0593 25.7316 18.1804 25.6402 18.3147 25.5628L37.55 14.4843ZM24.8087 39.375H26.8166C27.2715 36.1948 30.0066 33.75 33.3126 33.75C36.6191 33.75 39.3544 36.1953 39.8088 39.3762C39.8308 39.3754 39.8529 39.375 39.8751 39.375L52.1497 39.375L55.4308 35.6252H43.6253C42.5898 35.6252 41.7503 34.7858 41.7503 33.7502C41.7503 32.7147 42.5898 31.8752 43.6253 31.8752H58.712L61.88 28.2547L6.71499 29.9264L9.4146 39.375H11.7501C11.7723 39.375 11.7944 39.3754 11.8164 39.3762C12.2708 36.1953 15.0062 33.75 18.3126 33.75C21.6187 33.75 24.3538 36.1948 24.8087 39.375ZM25.7685 25.5973L42.1404 25.1012L39.4216 17.7339L25.7685 25.5973ZM15.5001 40.3125C15.5001 41.8658 16.7593 43.125 18.3126 43.125C19.8659 43.125 21.1251 41.8658 21.1251 40.3125C21.1251 38.7592 19.8659 37.5 18.3126 37.5C16.7593 37.5 15.5001 38.7592 15.5001 40.3125ZM30.5001 40.3125C30.5001 41.8658 31.7593 43.125 33.3126 43.125C34.8659 43.125 36.1251 41.8658 36.1251 40.3125C36.1251 38.7592 34.8659 37.5 33.3126 37.5C31.7593 37.5 30.5001 38.7592 30.5001 40.3125Z\" fill=\"#005EB8\"><\/path>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\r\n\t\t        <\/div>\r\n\t\t        <h3 id=\"keep-your-boat-nearby\">Keep your boat nearby<\/h3>\r\n\t\t        <p>With locations in every state, the perfect boat spot is already near you.<\/p>\r\n\t\t      <\/div>\r\n\t\t      <div class=\"service-option\">\r\n\t\t        <div class=\"service-option-icon\">\r\n\t\t          <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"60\" height=\"60\" viewbox=\"0 0 60 60\" fill=\"none\">\r\n\t\t            <path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M30 7.5C25.5499 7.5 21.1998 8.8196 17.4997 11.2919C13.7996 13.7643 10.9157 17.2783 9.21272 21.3896C7.50975 25.501 7.06417 30.025 7.93234 34.3895C8.80051 38.7541 10.9434 42.7632 14.0901 45.9099C17.2368 49.0566 21.2459 51.1995 25.6105 52.0677C29.975 52.9358 34.4991 52.4903 38.6104 50.7873C42.7217 49.0843 46.2357 46.2004 48.7081 42.5003C51.1804 38.8002 52.5 34.4501 52.5 30C52.5 24.0326 50.1295 18.3097 45.9099 14.0901C41.6903 9.87053 35.9674 7.5 30 7.5ZM41.5295 26.7545C42.7193 25.5646 42.7193 23.6354 41.5295 22.4455C40.3396 21.2556 38.4104 21.2556 37.2205 22.4455L26.7061 32.96L22.7795 29.0334C21.5896 27.8435 19.6604 27.8435 18.4705 29.0334C17.2807 30.2232 17.2807 32.1524 18.4705 33.3423L24.5516 39.4234C25.123 39.9948 25.898 40.3158 26.7061 40.3158C27.5142 40.3158 28.2891 39.9948 28.8605 39.4234L41.5295 26.7545Z\" fill=\"#005EB8\"><\/path>\r\n\t\t          <\/svg>\r\n\t\t        <\/div>\r\n\t\t        <h3 id=\"storage-made-simple\">Storage made simple<\/h3>\r\n\t\t        <p>Don't settle for stone age tech and long contracts. Neighbor makes it easy.<\/p>\r\n\t\t      <\/div>\r\n\t\t    <\/section>\r\n\t\t    <footer>\r\n\t\t      <button>Search nearby boat storage <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"25\" height=\"24\" viewbox=\"0 0 25 24\" fill=\"none\">\r\n\t\t          <path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M11 2.90625C9.4981 2.90625 8.02993 3.35162 6.78114 4.18603C5.53236 5.02044 4.55905 6.20642 3.98429 7.594C3.40954 8.98157 3.25916 10.5084 3.55217 11.9815C3.84517 13.4545 4.56841 14.8076 5.63041 15.8696C6.69242 16.9316 8.04549 17.6548 9.51854 17.9478C10.9916 18.2408 12.5184 18.0905 13.906 17.5157C14.4508 17.29 14.9646 17.0029 15.4382 16.6618L19.5132 20.7368C19.9892 21.2127 20.7608 21.2127 21.2368 20.7368C21.7127 20.2608 21.7127 19.4892 21.2368 19.0132L17.1618 14.9382C17.2137 14.8661 17.2645 14.793 17.314 14.7189C18.1484 13.4701 18.5938 12.0019 18.5938 10.5C18.5938 8.48601 17.7937 6.55451 16.3696 5.13041C14.9455 3.7063 13.014 2.90625 11 2.90625ZM14.7493 14.0398C14.9463 13.8311 15.1264 13.6054 15.2873 13.3647C15.8538 12.5167 16.1562 11.5198 16.1562 10.5C16.1562 9.13248 15.613 7.82096 14.646 6.85398C13.679 5.887 12.3675 5.34375 11 5.34375C9.98019 5.34375 8.98328 5.64616 8.13534 6.21273C7.2874 6.77931 6.62651 7.58461 6.23625 8.52679C5.84599 9.46897 5.74387 10.5057 5.94283 11.5059C6.14178 12.5061 6.63287 13.4249 7.35398 14.146C8.0751 14.8671 8.99385 15.3582 9.99407 15.5572C10.9943 15.7561 12.031 15.654 12.9732 15.2638C13.5557 15.0225 14.086 14.6777 14.5398 14.2493C14.5699 14.2108 14.6028 14.1737 14.6382 14.1382C14.6737 14.1028 14.7108 14.0699 14.7493 14.0398Z\" fill=\"#EFF5F8\"><\/path>\r\n\t\t        <\/svg>\r\n\t\t      <\/button>\r\n\t\t    <\/footer>\r\n\t\t  <\/div>\r\n\t\t<\/a>\r\n\t<\/div>\n  <\/div><\/body><\/html><h2 id=\"when-should-you-buy-a-boat-and-where\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">When Should You Buy a Boat? And Where?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li> <span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Boat Shows<\/span> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Online Listings<\/span> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Boat Dealers<\/span> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Boattraders<\/span> <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you&rsquo;ve decided what the right boat is for you, it&rsquo;s time to go searching. There are many different ways to go about the boat-buying process, but here are a few tried and tested methods:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You&rsquo;ll also want to take the boat for a <strong>sea trial <\/strong>(test drive) before purchase. If you&rsquo;re going to take a test drive, you&rsquo;ll need to buy a boat during the warmer seasons &mdash; not when the lake is frozen!) <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Check out this video: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=3ZwV-8rypUQ\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">How to Drive a Boat for Beginners.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"buying-a-used-boat-follow-this-quick-boat-inspection-checklist\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Buying a Used Boat? Follow This Quick Boat Inspection Checklist<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img  decoding=\"async\"  src=\"data:image\/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAEAAAABAQMAAAAl21bKAAAAA1BMVEUAAP+KeNJXAAAAAXRSTlMAQObYZgAAAAlwSFlzAAAOxAAADsQBlSsOGwAAAApJREFUCNdjYAAAAAIAAeIhvDMAAAAASUVORK5CYII=\"  alt=\"Source:  Tom Ekman (author)\"  class=\" pk-lazyload\"  data-pk-sizes=\"auto\"  data-pk-src=\"https:\/\/images.surferseo.art\/9805b28f-71d8-4f51-8271-552e5416c34d.jpeg\" ><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&rsquo;ve decided to purchase a used vessel, we recommend paying an expert to perform a <strong>thorough inspection<\/strong>. Wear and tear on boats can be invisible to those without the requisite nautical know-how.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are&nbsp;some starting points for inspection. (You can find a more <a href=\"https:\/\/boatingmag.com\/boats\/boat-inspection-checklist\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">comprehensive list here<\/a>.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li> <span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Run your hands down the hull, looking for abnormalities like <\/span><strong style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">pressure dings <\/strong><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">(a dent in the metal or fiberglass) or shoddy repairs. The <\/span><strong style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">hull, keel, and rudder<\/strong><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\"> should be <\/span><strong style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">barnacle-free.<\/strong> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Check for leaks or <\/span><strong style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">corrosion<\/strong><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\"> (rust is like cancer to boats &mdash; you want to stop it before it starts)<\/span> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Check the <strong>fuel and oil.<\/strong><\/span> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Fire up the electronics.<\/span> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Test the responsiveness of the <\/span><strong style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">tiller<\/strong><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\"> or the <\/span><strong style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">helm <\/strong><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">(the big &ldquo;steering wheel&rdquo; on larger boats).<\/span> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">With sailboats, <strong>inspect each sail for tears,<\/strong> <\/span><strong><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">look for sticky <\/span>Harken blocks<\/strong><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">, and <strong>ensure the keel isn&rsquo;t damaged <\/strong><\/span><em><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">(you might need a snorkel for this one!).<\/span> <\/em><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p>Bilge pump: Be sure it&rsquo;s working, or your boat can become a floating bathtub.<\/p><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Though not an inspection item, you should <strong>inquire about the boat&rsquo;s<\/strong><\/span><strong><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\"> <\/span>warranty<span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">.<\/span><\/strong> <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While quick DIY inspection can help you scope out early signs of trouble, you&rsquo;ll still want to hire <span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">a <\/span>marine surveyor<span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\"> to evaluate the condition of any pre-owned boat. It&rsquo;s 100% worth the investment of money now to save you from big problems later. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But why exactly is it worth it to hire professionals to inspect a used boat? In the case of a boat&rsquo;s engine, a <span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">visual inspection may not reveal the true lifespan of the engine <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">(Note: <\/span><strong style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Engine life<\/strong><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\"> is defined by <\/span><strong style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">hours of use<\/strong><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">, not the age of the boat<\/span>). <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">An<\/span><strong style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\"> inboard engine<\/strong><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\"> is also more difficult to inspect than an <\/span><strong style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">outboard engine<\/strong><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">. If you want to feel confident that you are getting an honest assessment of engine life, you should work with a <\/span><strong style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">reputable broker<\/strong><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">.<\/span> <span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">They can provide a fair assessment of the boat&rsquo;s value.<\/span> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"do-you-need-a-license-for-a-boat-and-how-do-you-obtain-one\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do You Need a License for a Boat, and How Do You Obtain One?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Boating License requirements for all states can be found on DMV.com&rsquo;s&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/dmv.com\/boating-license\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><u>Boating License page<\/u><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img  decoding=\"async\"  src=\"data:image\/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAEAAAABAQMAAAAl21bKAAAAA1BMVEUAAP+KeNJXAAAAAXRSTlMAQObYZgAAAAlwSFlzAAAOxAAADsQBlSsOGwAAAApJREFUCNdjYAAAAAIAAeIhvDMAAAAASUVORK5CYII=\"  alt=\"Source:  extant article\"  class=\" pk-lazyload\"  data-pk-sizes=\"auto\"  data-pk-src=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/Boat-buying-2-300x200.jpg\" ><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"do-i-have-to-register-my-boat\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do I Have to Register My Boat?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Much like automobiles, most watercraft require registration. If your boat type is included in the list below (and therefore requires registering, you can begin the registration process at your local DMV office. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"boats-that-require-registration\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Boats That Require Registration:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li> <span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Any powerboat.<\/span> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Any sailboat.<\/span> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Motorized vessels like jet skis.<\/span> <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"boats-that-do-no-require-registration\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Boats that Do No Require Registration:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li> <span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Any boat that is propelled only by oars or paddles.<\/span> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Surfboards or sailboards.<\/span> <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img  decoding=\"async\"  src=\"data:image\/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAEAAAABAQMAAAAl21bKAAAAA1BMVEUAAP+KeNJXAAAAAXRSTlMAQObYZgAAAAlwSFlzAAAOxAAADsQBlSsOGwAAAApJREFUCNdjYAAAAAIAAeIhvDMAAAAASUVORK5CYII=\"  alt=\"source: Pixabay\"  class=\" pk-lazyload\"  data-pk-sizes=\"auto\"  data-pk-src=\"https:\/\/images.surferseo.art\/5e9467f2-f95b-4bcb-a5eb-6cab2bed8206.jpeg\" ><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<html><body><div id=\"2_in_post\">\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/search?can_store_vehicle=true&amp;min_length=16&amp;min_width=10&amp;overrideTitle=Boat%20Storage&amp;storing=Boat&amp;types%5B%5D=Carport&amp;types%5B%5D=Driveway&amp;types%5B%5D=Garage&amp;types%5B%5D=Parking%20Lot&amp;types%5B%5D=Unpaved%20Lot&amp;types%5B%5D=Street%20Parking&amp;types%5B%5D=Warehouse&amp;types%5B%5D=Other\" onclick=\"rudderanalytics.track('press editorial cta button', {location: 'second in post', version: '2.0'}, () =&gt; { console.log('track call'); });\">\r\n  <div class=\"second-in-post-cta\">\r\n    <section>\r\n      <div class=\"service-option\">\r\n        <h2 id=\"save-up-to-1200-year-on-boat-storage\">Save up to $1,200\/year on boat storage<\/h2>\r\n        <button>Search in your area\r\n          <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"25\" height=\"24\" viewbox=\"0 0 25 24\" fill=\"none\">\r\n            <path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M11 2.90625C9.4981 2.90625 8.02993 3.35162 6.78114 4.18603C5.53236 5.02044 4.55905 6.20642 3.98429 7.594C3.40954 8.98157 3.25916 10.5084 3.55217 11.9815C3.84517 13.4545 4.56841 14.8076 5.63041 15.8696C6.69242 16.9316 8.04549 17.6548 9.51854 17.9478C10.9916 18.2408 12.5184 18.0905 13.906 17.5157C14.4508 17.29 14.9646 17.0029 15.4382 16.6618L19.5132 20.7368C19.9892 21.2127 20.7608 21.2127 21.2368 20.7368C21.7127 20.2608 21.7127 19.4892 21.2368 19.0132L17.1618 14.9382C17.2137 14.8661 17.2645 14.793 17.314 14.7189C18.1484 13.4701 18.5938 12.0019 18.5938 10.5C18.5938 8.48601 17.7937 6.55451 16.3696 5.13041C14.9455 3.7063 13.014 2.90625 11 2.90625ZM14.7493 14.0398C14.9463 13.8311 15.1264 13.6054 15.2873 13.3647C15.8538 12.5167 16.1562 11.5198 16.1562 10.5C16.1562 9.13248 15.613 7.82096 14.646 6.85398C13.679 5.887 12.3675 5.34375 11 5.34375C9.98019 5.34375 8.98328 5.64616 8.13534 6.21273C7.2874 6.77931 6.62651 7.58461 6.23625 8.52679C5.84599 9.46897 5.74387 10.5057 5.94283 11.5059C6.14178 12.5061 6.63287 13.4249 7.35398 14.146C8.0751 14.8671 8.99385 15.3582 9.99407 15.5572C10.9943 15.7561 12.031 15.654 12.9732 15.2638C13.5557 15.0225 14.086 14.6777 14.5398 14.2493C14.5699 14.2108 14.6028 14.1737 14.6382 14.1382C14.6737 14.1028 14.7108 14.0699 14.7493 14.0398Z\" fill=\"#EFF5F8\"><\/path>\r\n          <\/svg>\r\n        <\/button>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/section>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n<\/a>\n  <\/div><\/body><\/html><h2 id=\"is-insurance-required-to-buy-a-boat\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is Insurance Required to Buy a Boat?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Insurance requirements vary by state<\/strong>. Refer to your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscgboating.org\/regulations\/state-boating-laws.php\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">state&rsquo;s boating laws<\/a> for more information. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">All major insurance companies have plans for boat owners, so you shouldn&rsquo;t have a problem finding coverage for your vessel. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"how-much-does-it-cost-to-buy-a-boat\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Much Does It Cost to Buy a Boat?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The first question is: Do you want to buy a <strong>new or used<\/strong> boat? And what kind of boat is right for you?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The following table gives a general idea of how much a boat will cost, accounting for factors like the length of the boat (which is a good rule of thumb to go by when boat buying). In other words, the length of the boat will usually correlate with the price point: <em>the longer the boat, the higher the price point. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img  decoding=\"async\"  src=\"data:image\/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAEAAAABAQMAAAAl21bKAAAAA1BMVEUAAP+KeNJXAAAAAXRSTlMAQObYZgAAAAlwSFlzAAAOxAAADsQBlSsOGwAAAApJREFUCNdjYAAAAAIAAeIhvDMAAAAASUVORK5CYII=\"  alt=\"Source:  Extant article\"  class=\" pk-lazyload\"  data-pk-sizes=\"auto\"  data-pk-src=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/Boat-buying-4-172x300.jpg\" ><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you&rsquo;ve honed in a target boat length, you can start spinning the dials on different boat options with a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.usbank.com\/vehicle-loans\/boat-loans\/boat-payment-calculator.html\" target=\"_blank\">price calculator.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&rsquo;re looking at a specific used boat, you should perform a search by <a href=\"https:\/\/boathistoryreport.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Hull Identification Number (HIN)<\/a>, which is like a VIN on a car. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When buying used, you can usually <strong>negotiate<\/strong> the boat&rsquo;s purchase price down from the asking price. The best way to prepare for a used boat sale is to educate yourself as much as <strong>possible about the market value of the boat<\/strong> and its bells and whistles. You&rsquo;ll also want to brush up on common <a href=\"https:\/\/www.discoverboating.com\/glossary-items\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">boating terms<\/a>, so you don&rsquo;t find yourself drowning in jargon (and exorbitant costs). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em><strong>Keep in mind that prices can vary considerably by location.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you&rsquo;ve settled the used vs. new debate, you&rsquo;ll need to decide whether you plan to pay upfront or take out a <strong>loan.<\/strong> Check out the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/advisor\/personal-loans\/best-boat-loans\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Forbes list of Best Boat Loans 2023<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"how-much-does-it-cost-to-maintain-a-boat\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Much Does It Cost to Maintain a Boat?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Being a boat owner involves many ongoing costs that all potential boat buyers should be aware of. Boats do have a reputation as a money pit, and while this is exaggerated, good boat maintenance is certainly an investment, both time and money-wise. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because maintenance requirements vary by boat type, boat age, and how many hours of use the vessel has logged, it&rsquo;s difficult to estimate how much you will spend on maintenance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you are buying used to buy a cheaper boat, don&rsquo;t forget that <strong>maintenance demands only increase when upkeeping a used boat<\/strong> (compared to a new boat). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li> <span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Fuel<\/span> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> I<span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">nsurance<\/span> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Maintenance<\/span> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Docking\/Marina fees<\/span> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Storage:&nbsp;<\/span><a style=\"font-size: revert; font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\" href=\"https:\/\/neighbor.com\/boat-storage?utm_source=blog\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><u>Convenient and fairly-priced storage spaces<\/u><\/a><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">&nbsp;near you.<\/span> <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, the maintenance costs are significant. But as a new boat owner, you&rsquo;ll want to savor the joys of the <strong>boating lifestyle<\/strong>: namely, the freedom to leave your troubles on shore and go wherever you please. You&rsquo;ll also have the opportunity to bond with a whole new community when you start boating. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For most boat owners, this sense of comradery in the boating community makes the price of admission more than worth it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"top-10-reasons-you-should-buy-a-boat\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Top 10 Reasons You Should Buy a Boat<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As we mentioned, the boating lifestyle can make all of the costs worth it. Here are 10 reasons why you&rsquo;ll love being a boat owner:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"captaincy\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Captaincy <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Once you&rsquo;ve bought your boat and put it on water, you can now refer to yourself as &ldquo;captain&rdquo;, &ldquo;skipper&rdquo;, or &ldquo;boat pilot.&rdquo; How cool is that?<\/span> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"time-with-friends-and-family\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Time with Friends and Family  <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Whether it&rsquo;s your spouse and children, two dogs, or grandma, the boat will bring you closer together.<\/span> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p><p>As a community, boaters are thick as thieves. Most marinas have a bar where salty characters spin endless yarns. This is a great place to meet experienced captains who can share invaluable knowledge with you about local boating conditions. You can also pick up extra <strong>crew<\/strong> around the marina.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"gets-you-outside\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Gets You Outside <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p><p>Instead of watching Parks and Recreation for the fifth time, you can immerse yourself in wind, waves, and sun.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"its-more-affordable-than-you-think\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">It&rsquo;s More Affordable Than You Think <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">We hope this article doesn&rsquo;t intimidate would-be boat buyers. <\/span>Whether you have no budget or a tight budget, there&rsquo;s a boat for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">If all you have is $1000, check out <\/span><a style=\"font-size: revert; font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/c\/inflatable-kayaks\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">inflatable kayaks<\/a><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\"> &ndash; a new category of boat that allows you to store your boat in a backpack!<\/span> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"stress-relief\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Stress Relief  <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p><p>Being on the water brings out some elemental side of us. Noaters find renewal and serenity by leaving their troubles on shore. (Cue &ldquo;Sailing&rdquo; by Christopher Cross.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"instills-self-reliance\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Instills Self-Reliance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">When you&rsquo;re out on your boat, you are responsible for the safety of every passenger on board. The rigor of boating &mdash; <em>from rigging up a sailboat to knowing how to troubleshoot a stalled outboard engine<\/em> &mdash; builds character.<\/span> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before hitting the water, you&rsquo;ll need to l<span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">earn a few things with your new boat. Some of these things will have to do with the boat itself, but some may have to do with fishing, water sports, or navigation. Remember, knowledge is power.<\/span> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p><p>If boating is uncharted territory, there are plenty of resources to help you get out on the water, ranging fro<a href=\"http:\/\/classes.Fun\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">m in-person<\/a> to online courses and classes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\"><\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img  decoding=\"async\"  src=\"data:image\/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAEAAAABAQMAAAAl21bKAAAAA1BMVEUAAP+KeNJXAAAAAXRSTlMAQObYZgAAAAlwSFlzAAAOxAAADsQBlSsOGwAAAApJREFUCNdjYAAAAAIAAeIhvDMAAAAASUVORK5CYII=\"  alt=\"Source:  Tom Ekman (author)\"  class=\" pk-lazyload\"  data-pk-sizes=\"auto\"  data-pk-src=\"https:\/\/images.surferseo.art\/a00498d9-0506-4d53-ba96-9e506a6fef47.jpeg\" ><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-are-the-best-well-known-boat-brands\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Are the Best Well-Known Boat Brands?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">According to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ranker.com\/list\/best-boat-brands\/werner-brandes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Ranker.com<\/a>, here are 10 of the best boat manufacturers. Picking an established manufacturer can make it easier to decide. Any of these could be the right boat for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li> <strong style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Sea Ray.&nbsp;<\/strong><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Ranging from their smaller boat SPX series to their huge Sports and L-Class Yachts, these boats are meant <\/span>for boaters with a need for speed. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <strong style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Chaparral.&nbsp;<\/strong><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Water sports fans rejoice because you&rsquo;ll find exactly what you need with a Chaparral.<\/span> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <strong style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Boston Whaler.&nbsp;<\/strong><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">A household name for over 60 years, you&rsquo;ll find some Skiffs and plenty of Cuddy Cabins and Center Consoles in this fleet.<\/span> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <strong style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Grady-White.&nbsp;<\/strong><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">From the 18&prime; Fisherman 180 to the 30&prime; Marlin 300, your fishing needs are covered with a Grady-White.<\/span> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <strong style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Pursuit.&nbsp;<\/strong><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Boasting a wide range of Center and Dual Console models, Pursuit Boats also offers some great Sports variety, pleasing both fishermen and families.<\/span> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <strong style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">MasterCraft.&nbsp;<\/strong><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Masters of ski and wakeboard boats, their models are bright, stylish, and well-known.<\/span> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <strong style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Formula.&nbsp;<\/strong><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">With a name like that you expect some speed, and that&rsquo;s exactly what you can find here. Formula boats are sleekly designed and meant to cut and speed through the water.<\/span> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <strong style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Yamaha.&nbsp;<\/strong><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Known for many things, including their marine machines. The majority of their selections are meant for water sports and cruising over the water, but their center console options will keep the fishermen happy.<\/span> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <strong style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Bertram.&nbsp;<\/strong><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">They build yachts. They&rsquo;re big and luxurious.<\/span> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <strong style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">Wellcraft.&nbsp;<\/strong><span style=\"font-size: revert; color: var(--cs-color-primary); font-family: var(--cs-font-base-family), sans-serif; font-style: var(--cs-font-base-style); font-weight: var(--cs-font-base-weight); letter-spacing: var(--cs-font-base-letter-spacing);\">You wouldn&rsquo;t feel out of place teaching your kids how to fish on a Wellcraft. A great family boat.<\/span> <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-type-of-boat-trailer-should-i-buy\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Type of Boat Trailer Should I Buy?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When embarking on a boating excursion, you&rsquo;ll need to haul your boat to and from your go-to boating destination&mdash;which means getting a trailer is a necessity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are two main types of trailers:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"bunk-trailers\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Bunk Trailers <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p><p>Bunk Trailers are generally simpler and more affordable than roller trailers. They typically consist of two long boards covered in a felt-like material that run along the metal frame of the trailer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"roller-trailers\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Roller Trailers <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p><p>Roller Trailers consist of a metal frame with a series of rollers attached. These rollers guide your boat onto the trailer and into a safe transport-friendly position. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p><p>There are more parts on a roller trailer compared to a bunk trailer. Though safer for your boat, this type of trailer is more expensive to buy and maintain).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"how-much-does-it-cost-to-store-a-boat\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Much Does It Cost to Store a Boat?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You found the perfect boat. Now, how to store it?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Winter storage is an important consideration, as many boat owners <a href=\"https:\/\/www.boatingmag.com\/how-to\/cheat-sheet-winterizing\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>winterize<\/strong><\/a> their boat and store it for six months or longer in the cold season. A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/the-different-types-of-boat-covers-how-to-choose-the-right-type\/\">boat cover<\/a> is essential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The cheapest option for storing your vessel is your garage. If this isn&rsquo;t an option, marinas are the most expensive option, followed by commercial storage facilities. Thankfully, you can find some great deals close to home using peer-to-peer storage marketplaces like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/boat-storage-near-me\">Neighbor.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n<\/body><\/html>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Thinking about buying your first boat? Buying a boat is more complex than buying a car, but the&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":39,"featured_media":2125,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"csco_singular_sidebar":"","csco_page_header_type":"","csco_appearance_grid":"","csco_page_load_nextpost":"","csco_post_video_location":[],"csco_post_video_location_hash":"","csco_post_video_url":"","csco_post_video_bg_start_time":0,"csco_post_video_bg_end_time":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[190],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2122","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-boat-buying","cs-entry","cs-video-wrap"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v21.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Boat Buying Guide 2023: Tips to Buying a Boat For First Time<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"So you&#039;re ready to buy a boat but don&#039;t know where to start? This boat buying guide will help you find the best boat for your needs.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/boat-buying-guide-2023\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Boat Buying Guide 2023: Tips to Buying a Boat For First Time\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"So you&#039;re ready to buy a boat but don&#039;t know where to start? This boat buying guide will help you find the best boat for your needs.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/boat-buying-guide-2023\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Neighbor Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2018-05-09T16:15:04+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2024-01-30T01:03:39+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/Boat-buying-feature-scaled.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"2560\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1695\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Tom Ekman\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Tom Ekman\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"11 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/boat-buying-guide-2023\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/boat-buying-guide-2023\/\",\"name\":\"Boat Buying Guide 2023: Tips to Buying a Boat For First Time\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/#website\"},\"datePublished\":\"2018-05-09T16:15:04+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-01-30T01:03:39+00:00\",\"author\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/#\/schema\/person\/fc2f6ff5df12e9e7a08e6c4027bdeba2\"},\"description\":\"So you're ready to buy a boat but don't know where to start? 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