Home sweet boat! How to choose a boat that fits your lifestyle

In between your busy working schedule, you need to unwind every once in a while with hobbies. Having a hobby can help relieve stress levels and and take your mind off things; for most people, it can be a source of happiness.

As a boat lover, you understand how great it feels to have time away from everything, to do something that you enjoy without any work or life-related pressure. 

But when buying new or used boats for sale, you need to ensure you choose one that fits well with your lifestyle. Because each person is different and has their responsibilities, it's essential to understand what your boat needs to fulfill in your life. That way, you can get as much joy and use from your boat as you can. 

When choosing a boat, there are many things you need to consider. For example, you need to find a boat that fits your budget. As we know, boats are a luxury expense and require a plan before purchasing. So, before you go off to purchase your boat, here's how to choose a boat that fits your needs, budget, and lifestyle.

Think about what type of boat you're interested in

Knowing what kind of boat you're interested in before getting funding can help make your life much easier. It can help you pin down what your budget might be and any other additional costs. So, read the different types of boats below: 

Pontoon boats

Pontoon boats are an all-time favorite; you can go skiing, fishing, or simply cruise around while relaxing to the sound of water surrounding you. These boats are loved by many because they are family-friendly and have plenty of room to move around comfortably. 

These boats are safe for young and elderly family members, as they are stable and have a flat surface where they can walk around freely. Not only is the pontoon boat safe and comfortable, but it is also effortlessly easy to maintain. 

One reason is that pontoon boats are high up on their trailers, so they're less likely to get any water damage. The material used to produce these boats is also sturdy, easy to maintain, and clean, as they don't need to be dried after every use.

Bass boat

Bass boats are ideal for fishing. Although they're smaller than a pontoon boat, you can still invite a few friends or family members over for a fishing adventure. 

Bass boats usually have two to three seats and features such as live wells for your fish, storage bins, and swivel chairs. Bass boats are perfect for fishing in and out of service Lake Geneva Water and are most commonly known for catching bass. So, if you're interested in getting a boat specifically for fishing, this is ideal. 

Canoe

If you're looking for an uncomplicated boat, a canoe is the right fit. A canoe can transport a maximum of three people and can be used for racing, touring, camping, and whitewater canoeing. Although small, their sizes vary depending on the buyer's needs.

Wake boats

A wake boat is designed to help wakeboarders jump and launch quickly. It is a V-drive boat with two drive shafts, a gearbox, and a propeller. This boat is ideal for individuals who enjoy skiing, wakeboarding, and wake surfing.

Cabin cruiser boat

If you're looking for a home away from home, the cabin cruiser is definitely for you. They are great for relaxing and big enough to invite family and friends. Modern cruisers have air conditioners, heaters, and power generators, so it's guaranteed to bring you and your family memorable experiences. 

Think about your financing options.

It is no secret that boats are expensive luxury items. But fortunately, you can get finance for your boat. Leisure finance includes the financing of expensive recreational activities, such as boat ownership. Because of the expense, lenders will lend you money to pay off your boat while you have manageable repayment terms. 

A boat loan can help you get the boat of your dreams, and it allows you peace of mind, knowing you haven't left a dent in your budget or life savings. If you want to know how much your monthly payment will be before going to a lender, you can use a boat finance calculator. Although it won't give you exact amounts, it will help you get an idea of how much it will be so that you can plan accordingly.

Additional costs

The cost of boat ownership doesn't end with boat finance; you also have to consider the cost of fuel, storage, and boat insurance. All these aspects play a vital role in determining which boat fits your lifestyle. For example, if you have no space to keep your boat at home, you might want to reconsider the size of your boat. If you have a big boat, you will have to store it at the docks, which can be expensive.

A better solution would be to purchase a trailer. Although it is expensive, it's a better alternative as it's a once-off purchase. Another additional expense would be boat insurance. This is especially important if you're applying for a boat loan, as it is a requirement. 

Yes, it may be an expense, but it will help you should there be any damage. You can have peace of mind that your boat is protected in any emergency, and you won't need to deal with the financial burden alone. The insurance costs will all depend on the quality, size, age, and price of the boat, so when choosing a boat, always add these costs to your budget. 

Pre-loved or brand new

When it comes to money, you need to find ways to save. If you're on a tight budget, there is nothing stopping you from opting for a pre-loved boat. They cost far less than a brand-new one, so you can save some money. Like cars, boats depreciate within the first year. 

So, if you're trying to be frugal, instead purchase a second hand as the previous owner would have covered the depreciation money, helping you save in the long run. However, buying brand new is recommended if you plan on having the same boat for quite some time and aren't interested in upgrading. That way, you won't have to come across any problems while using it. 

Final thoughts

Purchasing a leisure item is a big decision, and you need to be certain before making any commitment. You need to find an ideal boat for yourself and consider financing. Your hobby shouldn't leave you in debt. 

So make sure you do your research, calculate the additional costs and plan your budget accordingly. That way, you can have the boat of your dreams with no worries dampening your experience.