What to Look for When Buying a Boat

A boat is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and entertain guests. Whether you’re buying a boat for personal pleasure or business use, it’s important to make sure that you get what you’re paying for. Here are some of the most important things to look for when buying a boat.

Check the Boat’s Condition

You can get a preliminary evaluation of a boat’s condition simply by walking around it and examining the exterior. Things to look for include rust, corrosion, hull blisters, peeling paint, visible signs of water damage or mold, dents, and missing parts. If any of these are present, consider the amount of money and work you’d be willing to put in to fix them. A boat’s condition at the time of purchase is going to dramatically impact how much you will have to spend fixing it if repairs are needed. Ideally, you want to look for a boat that does not need any repairs.

Ensure the Quality of all Equipment

After you have inspected the general condition of the boat, it is wise to check the equipment and parts on the boat to make sure that everything you need is there and in good working order. Check steering systems, winches, rigging on sailboats, galley equipment, lights, electronics, and any other equipment that is critical for proper operation of the vessel. The better this equipment is working, the better the boat is likely to perform for you after you purchase it.

You’ll also want to look for added features to suit your needs. If you plan to take the boat on many fishing trips, for example, check for a livewell, rod holders, outriggers, bracket mounts and more.

Examine the Engine

The engine is one of the most important things to look at when you are buying a boat. One of the best ways to check a boat’s engine is to take the boat for a test drive on the water. Many boat dealers and individual sellers will allow prospective buyers to take the boat for a test drive. If you’re not confident that you’ll notice any issues, take a friend along who does. Test drives can give you a lot of information about how well the engine is working and how the boat feels when in operation.

After test driving the boat, it should be much easier for you to understand the engine quality and the overall performance of the boat. A well performing engine is essential to ensure that you are getting a good quality boat and the best value for your money.

Get Protected with a Quality Boat Insurance Policy

After you’ve done all the work to find and purchase a great boat, it’s important to protect your investment with a high quality boat insurance policy. Maritime Insurance International has an excellent selection of boat insurance options for personal and commercial use.

Call our dedicated marine insurance agents today for more information or to request a quote.