There is tranquility in being out on the open water. Whether that water is a lake by your cottage, the bay near your work, or even just the closest water point doesn’t matter. You can fish, you can enjoy water sports, and you can even just enjoy romantic drive along the coast. There are so many ways to enjoy life with a boat, but first you need to follow this guide:
Know What You Are Looking For
For those of you who have never owned or operated a boat before you might be shocked by your options. Boats can range from a few hundred to several thousand – and that’s not taking into account houseboats like yachts or sailboats. You need to know what you are looking for and choose the right model based on your needs. A fishing boat could be nothing more than a decently sized rowboat with a motor attached to the back, but a pleasure boat or speed boat is better for family fun.
Financing Your Boat
Just as you can buy a vehicle brand new or second hand, so too can you buy a boat. A used boat can fetch you a great price, but you need to be aware of what to look for. Boats have the added issue of being submerged for long periods of time, and if you are near salt water this can speed up the deterioration before you know it.
Ideally you should be able to pay for your boat either entirely out of pocket, or through a small personal loan. Going into debt for something you can only use a portion of the year isn’t a smart move. You want to get the most value for your money, and choosing a great boat that is used and in full working order is often the best way to go.
Don’t Forget the Trailer
The trailer is key to getting your boat to and from storage every summer. Chosen right and maintained correctly, it could also last you a lifetime. Add extra safety features as well, like mudguards and wheel nut indicators, to make maintaining and inspecting your trailer easier than ever. From there, regular washes, rust removal, and of course lubrication will be needed to keep your trailer working perfectly for decades.
Maintenance for the Long-Term
As boats spend their time in the water, they have advanced maintenance requirements you need to look out for. Always put a tarp up over your boat, for example, to protect it from rainfall. Wash it every time you take it out of the water and check for rusted areas. Then it can be useful to know how to repair fiber glass, or how to properly maintain and even repair the motor. The repair steps you will be taking will depend entirely on the make and model of your boat.
Invested correctly and properly cared for, your boat can be a consistent joy in your life. Don’t let it rot or fall into disrepair, and your investment will last you a lifetime.
