Random But Important Things to Know Before Buying a Boat
Buying a boat is a big decision—it’s not just a purchase, it’s a lifestyle. While the dream of endless days on the water is tempting, there’s a lot more to owning a boat than just cruising into the sunset. From hidden costs and maintenance quirks to understanding boating etiquette and navigating waterways, there are plenty of things that first-time buyers often overlook. In this post, I’ll share a few random but crucial insights to help you navigate the waters of boat ownership before you make the plunge. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, being prepared will make all the difference.
· If you need a tow on the water, there is a company for that… TowBoatUS is a nationwide, on-water towing service for boaters. Like AAA for cars, TowBoatUS offers emergency towing and assistance to boaters who encounter issues on the water, such as mechanical breakdowns, running aground, or running out of fuel. They are available 24/7 and offer services such as:
• Towing: Transporting a disabled boat to a safe location or marina.
• Fuel Delivery: Bringing fuel to boaters who run out while on the water.
• Jump Starts: Recharging or starting a boat’s dead battery.
• Soft-Ungrounding: Helping boats that have run aground get back into deeper water.
• Salvage and Recovery: Providing services for more complicated situations like sunken boats or vessels in distress.
· Will I have power.? If you have a boat that requires power, yes. When you are docked at the marina, you will be connected to the shore power. You will have an electrical bill; most bills are monthly. If you are out on the water, you will have to use your generator for power.
· Property Tax…I am not sure if this is the case with all lakes, on the lake that we are docked we do have to pay property tax each year. Be sure to check with your property tax division before buying.
· Will I rock constantly when docked? It all depends where you are docked, and the amount of water traffic that will be near you. We are docked at the far end of the dock. I enjoy where we are docked because we have the perfect view, however in wanting to have the water views we get all the waves. This causes you to rock a lot.
· How many life jackets should I have? Be sure to have life jackets in a variety of sizes. Make sure when you have guests you have enough life jackets for everyone, even if you are docked. Children must always have on life jackets.
· Will I need Insurance? If you are docking at a marina it’s a must. You will have to have your policy with you in order to rent a slip. Each year, you will have to show proof of insurance. As with your home and car, your boat is a big investment, and you will want to protect it and yourself.
· What type of gas does boats use? Boats should use non-ethanol gas for several important reasons, particularly to preserve engine health and improve overall performance:
How much does marine gas cost? Most marinas have gas stations and shore stores that have your basic needs. Marine gas at the marinas are typically $1.00-$2.50 more per gallon. There are some fuel stations that are near the marina that will be cheaper than getting it from the marina. Keep a gas can and fill on your way to your boat is a cost-effective way of getting your gas.
· Is there a fee for docking at the marina? Yes, there is a fee. Some marinas are monthly, others could be quarterly. The price is based on the size of your boat and slip. It’s a good idea to inquire directly with the marinas you are considering to get a clear understanding of the cost and all other fees. This will help you budget for the total cost of owning and maintaining your boat.
