So You Want to Buy a Boat: A Beginner’s Guide
If you’re reading this, then chances are you are considering buying a boat — which is exciting! Owning a boat can be one of the most rewarding and enjoyable experiences you’ll ever have. Our team at Hanckel Marine is here to help you find the right boat for you, but before you dive into your search for the perfect match, here are a few questions to consider.
What type of boating will you do?
This question plays a huge role in determining what type of boat is the best fit for you. Typically, boats fall into three different activity categories: cruising, fishing and watersports. While there are some boats that can serve multiple purposes, it’s always best to consider which type of boating you’re interested in so you can find the boat that will best fit your needs. Be sure to share your boating wants and needs with your boat dealer during your search so they can provide their top recommendations (more on that later).
What’s your budget?
You should have a number in mind of what you are willing and able to spend before you start shopping around. While owning a boat does offer endless opportunities for adventure, priceless memories and the thrill of life on the water, it does cost a good chunk of change. From the up-front costs to seasonal maintenance and upkeep, as well as unknown future costs as your boat incurs the usual wear and tear over time, there’s a lot to take into consideration when establishing a budget. However, knowing what you’re investing in upfront helps you set realistic expectations and makes for a more transparent experience.
Who’s your boat dealer?
Aside from deciding to buy a boat, figuring out who you are going to buy your boat from is the most important step in the boat-buying process. You want to find a trustworthy dealer who is focused on what you want and isn’t just trying to make the sale — and that’s exactly what you’ll find at Hanckel Marine.
Our team takes your boat-buying process seriously and we are passionate about helping you find the right boat for you. From our transparency in pricing to our extensive line of Sportsman, Blackfin and Monterey models, our team ensures you are able to leave our facility with the ideal boat that fits your budget, needs and lifestyle.
As an added bonus, when you buy from Hanckel Marine, you’ll receive our extensive safety kit to get you started for life on the water, which includes: four life jackets, a throwable cushion, two polyballs, a whistle and an airhorn, two docking lines, an anchor with a chain and a rope, a fire extinguisher, hand-held flairs, trailer light adaptor and transom tie-down straps.
Where are you in the boat-buying process? Stop by Hanckel Marine today and speak to one of our team members — we’d love to help you find your right fit!