Your Guide to Buying the Perfect Boat

Boats are big-ticket investments, and buying one requires careful planning and research. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced boater, sometimes finding your dream vessel can be challenging. Don’t worry, though—we’re here to help you. New Jersey Outboards is your local boat dealership in Bayville, NJ, and we've created this guide to help you select your preferred boat at the right price!

Determine Your Needs

First, you’ll want to identify the boating activities you hope to enjoy with your boat so you can narrow your choices quickly at the dealership. Consider whether you intend to cruise, haul watersports enthusiasts, or plan fishing trips with your loved ones. This will help you determine the perfect boat size and features to invest in. Ideally, consider the number of passengers who’ll join your adventures, the cargo you hope to bring, and your boating experience.

Research Your Options

Next, you’ll want to research the market to see the different types of boats available. For example, you’ll want to peruse runabouts, pontoons, bowriders, and wakeboard boats to see what they offer. You’ll also want to research the boat's manufacturer, material, and amenities to ensure you get quality, safety, and performance.

Explore the Hull Shape

The shape of your boat’s hull can impact how well your vessel will handle the various water conditions. For example, a broad and flat hull design allows for navigating shallow waterways without getting stuck or damaged, while a V-shaped hull is ideal for traversing choppy waterways.

Plan a Realistic Budget

Another buying tip is to set a budget, considering your current financial situation. Essentially, think about the sticker price of your dream boat, operating costs, repairs and maintenance, storage, and insurance. You’ll also want to factor in fuel expenses and the cost of accessories, such as life jackets, dock lines, and anchors, before you make your final decision.

Secure Financing and Insurance

Owning a boat can be expensive, and you might want to secure financing and insurance to help manage the costs. Speak with different lenders to get the best interest rates and terms possible, and consider the type of insurance coverage you need, such as liability, collision, and theft insurance.

We hope you find these tips handy when purchasing a boat. If you have more questions or want to peruse a few models in person before making your final decision, visit New Jersey Outboards. We have an impressive collection of Parker® boats for sale, and we can help you select a model that fits your budget and marine lifestyle. We proudly serve Bayville, NJ, and Philadelphia, PA, so swing by today!