About Used Boats

Buying used boats is a great way to get a little more boat for the money. Sometimes you can buy really good used boats for much less than they cost new. There are drawbacks however, and you need to be very conscious of which used boats you buy. There could be problems with some of them and there is a lot to consider.

Considerations

If you are buying a used boat the first thing to consider is if there is a warranty on the motors. Both inboard and outboard motors can be extremely expensive to repair if they break down. A repair bill on an outboard or an inboard motor can run into the thousands very quickly, and in some cases they will cost more to repair than they would to buy new.

Types

There are many types of used boats, but the best kinds to buy include small center consoles. These boats typically have less mileage on them, since recreational users do not use their boats as much as others. Used commercial fishing boats, though built to withstand a lot of usage, will almost always have problems and need repairs. Larger used boats like yachts and cruisers often have similar problems with the engine and steering. This is due to owner negligence, failure to make regular repairs and to maintain or store the boat in the right ways.

Warning

A used boat can save you money but only if you buy smart. Check the condition of the boat hull and look for scratches or waves in the fiberglass. This indicates damage or possible collisions have occurred. Also make sure there are few hours on the engine. This reduces the chance of problems with vital parts that include the injectors, throttle system and oil system.

Where to Find Them

Used boats can be found at boat dealerships, marinas and in the classifieds. Some people will store their used boats at a marina, while they try and sell them. There are also many online used boat classifieds as well including the Boats website. You can find boats by make, model or type of boat.

Expert Insight

The best used boats will list all the features of the boat, as well as a detailed description about the boat's condition. You should ask a lot of questions of the owner if you can talk to them him how many times he has serviced the engine. Many people soon find that a boat is expensive to maintain. The best questions to ask include, where the boat was stored (outdoor storage or dry dock storage in cold weather can damage a hull), how many hours are on the engine, and how many months remain on the warranty.

Resources

• Used boats for sale