Wet storage at a marina gives you easy access to your boat all year round but tends to be more expensive than dry storage. It’s hard to put a figure on these things, so take note of what you’ll need and how much it’ll cost when doing your research. Think electronics, water toys, accessories, and safety equipment. You’ll need to make sure your boat is fully equipped before taking it out. Or perhaps you want a model more suited for water sports, such as water-skiing or wakeboarding. If you’re looking to stay on the water for extended periods or overnight, then you’ll need something built for comfort. Do you want to go day-boating or take it fishing? Then a model with a centre console might be right for you. You need to ask yourself what you want to use the boat for and buy accordingly. While private sellers are often the most motivated. Brokers have reduced costs and can source vessels far and wide. Dealers who sell preowned boats have higher overheads but a reputation to maintain. However, if a reputable manufacturer has released a boat that appears to give nothing but trouble, then this should become apparent during your online search and talking to those in the industry. Customer reviewsĪlways choose a trusted brand. While a maritime authority or police check in your State or Territory can provide information regarding the boat’s stolen status. A Personal Property Securities Register check will establish if there are any outstanding loans on the boat. In saying that, you should consider getting a marine surveyor to inspect the boat’s hull and electrical components and an engine surveyor to perform tests to establish the engine’s condition. With a second-hand boat, any initial faults or problems would've hopefully been picked up during the warranty period. Used boats are in high demand, so if you manage to get a good one and look after it, it may hold its value reasonably well. By letting someone else own the boat first, you avoid these depreciation costs. You also won’t need to do a Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR) check to find out if there are any outstanding loans on the boat, or a police or maritime authority check to determine whether its stolen.īoats can depreciate significantly in the first couple of years of ownership. Not having to get a marine surveyor or a mechanical surveyor to inspect the boat will save you time and money. What’s more, because of the exceptional build quality of today’s modern vessels, many manufacturers now offer lengthy warranties. Having a manufacturer’s warranty that you can rely on if something goes wrong is major plus. New boats are often more fuel-efficient and easier to maintain too. You can rest assured that your new boat will be equipped with the latest electronics, features and safety technology. You can confidently put it in the water and go. You don’t need to worry about how the boat has been used, or more importantly, misused, or whether it’s been adequately waterised and commissioned.

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