If you’re dreaming of relaxing on the St. Lawrence or rubbing elbows out on one of lakes this summer, you’ll need a boat to do it. This is the time of year when boat enthusiasts start thinking about upgrading their watercraft, and first-timers start exploring their options. Whichever camp you fall in, be sure to make the jaunt to a local boat show, where you can explore all of the latest models, technology, and improvements for 2018. If a new boat is on your radar, continue reading to learn how you can choose the watercraft that is right for you.
Which Type of Boat Do You Need?
Choosing a boat is the hardest part of buying since there are so many different options. What do you want to use your boat to do? Freshwater fishing? Deep sea fishing? Ski? Sail? Perhaps just to entertain friends and family? The answer to that question will help you narrow down your options so that you can find the watercraft that is right for you.
There are many different types of boats, some of which are made strictly for inland use and others that can be used either inland or in coastal waters. Examples of popular boats include:
- Cabin cruisers
- Fishing boats
- Bass boats
- Deck boats
- Bowriders
- Ski boats
- Catamarans
- Sailboats
- Personal watercraft
- And many more
A bass boat, for example, may be right for you if you are looking to fish on local lakes. If you prefer saltwater fishing instead, you may need to look at bigger fishing boats made especially for coastal use.
Boat Size
Boats come in many different sizes depending on your needs. If you plan to captain your boat yourself, consider choosing a boat size based on the amount of seating you will need and your confidence piloting the vessel. Smaller boats are easier to navigate, transport, and store. Quite the opposite can be said of larger boats, which require greater skill and sometimes need specialty storage solutions.
New vs. Used
This is like asking if you want a new car or a used car. New boats come with warranties and tend to be more reliable overall. You also have the option of having a custom boat built just for you if you are planning to purchase new. On the other hand, a used boat may have hidden mechanical issues, cosmetic flaws, and other problems that could create a drain on your finances. You could easily spend all the money you saved on the used boat price by repairing and updating the watercraft to your standards.
Don’t Forget Boat Insurance
Lastly, don’t forget to add boat insurance to your coverage portfolio. You protect your income, assets, and the things that are most valuable to you. A boat is not only a major financial investment, but it also creates new risks of potential liability. If you fail to properly insure your watercraft, you could easily face tens of thousands of dollars in damages if you are ever sued for a boating-related accident.
Homeowners insurance does not provide adequate coverage for boats, and the coverage it does provide is usually limited to certain types of damages and loss events. To ensure you are adequately protected both on the water and off it, we recommend contacting our team here at Skeele Insurance Agency to get coverage for:
- Property damage and bodily injury liability
- Boat damages
- Personal property damages
- Equipment
- Towing
- Emergency assistance
- And more
For more information about New York boat insurance, contact our office today.