If you’re ready to buy a power boat, you need to make sure you find the watercraft that’s right for you. A boat is a major financial investment, and it’s important to shop carefully so you end up with the most for your money and a vessel that will bring you joy on the water for many years to come.
Consider Size
Power boats come in a range of sizes, so think about how many people you plan to have with you while you’re on the lake, river, or ocean, as well as what you will do while you’re out there. If you’re a slalom skier, consider a 20- to 22-foot with a center-mount pylon. This direct drive will hold five to nine passengers. If you are a wakeboarder, you could opt for up to a 25-foot inboard, although smaller boats can produce larger waves and wakes.
Ponder Accessory Possibilities
When shopping for your speedboat, also take a look at the accessories that are available for your craft. You can add a universal wakeboarding tower, board racks, a marine-worthy sound system, and a Bimini to really enhance your boating experience. Towers give wakeboarders the elevated tow point they need to perform tricks. Board racks can help you keep your craft organized, and having music while you’re zooming around can liven up your ride. Biminis enhance your boat’s profile, and they also provide much needed protection from the sun. A Super Shadow Bimini is one option to consider because it fits over your tower, has been speed tested for durability, and is easy to install. It’s also a good idea to know a boat’s measurements as aftermarket towers vary in fit, and finish; a size chart is available here.
Test Drive
Once you’ve narrowed your search down to a few choice power boats, be sure to test drive them. You want to see your potential craft in action, so run it through the paces of all you plan to use it for. Be on the look out for any potential problems, such as excessive vibrations, lack of control, or other red flags of misalignments. Make sure the boat you buy lives up to your expectations.
Check on Warranties
Before you sign on the dotted line for your new power boat, be sure to look into warranties. Ask what’s covered and for how long. The more bells and whistles you have on your boat, the more extensive your warranty should be. Not only do you have more parts to cover with a fully outfitted watercraft, but larger, fancier boats tend to have features with glitches.
When you’ve found the right power boat to suit your personal preferences, make sure you learn how to trailer it, dock it, and use all the accessories. Congratulations! You’ve bought yourself a boat!
