NOOB has questions about starter boat

[hunter0527]

Ok, so I am completely new to boats. I have never owned a boat nor have really known a lot of people with boats. I live literally within walking distance to a great river with lots of boaters. I know people who have boats but not well enough to ask them to take me out. I am planning on talking to them about this topic but I havent seen them in a while.

Anyway... I am looking for a family boat... I was thinking of an open bow inboard, one that we can ski/tube from but also have some friends on the boat. I would be pulling it with a Nissan Xterra. I have read some posts on here and did some searching but haven't seen where anyone has asked this question.

I dont know if i should buy a used boat or a new boat? I know financing is different from cars as well. I also dont have a lot of cash sitting around in case problems occur so I want a very low maintenance boat (might be hard to find a used one, thats why i was thinking new?). Do used boats have the same options of financing as new boats (in terms of loan length)? I have seen people write that the best days of an owners life is the day they buy and the day they sell. I am sure that is not true among many owners but makes me a little nervous being that I have never had one.

I did read the guide for beginers at the top of the forum but that was more of dos and donts... not really about what boats will suit me better. If anyone has any input it is greatly appreciated. I dont anticipate buying until sometime next year. Is there a better time to buy? Thanks to everyone in advance.

 

[QC]

Re: NOOB has questions about starter boat

Well welcome hunter, you have come to the right place!! My advice is to keep reading here and learn as much as you can. Also, your xterra may make some of this decision for you as I don't believe it has a very high tow rating. How big is your family?

Yes, you can get long loans for used boats too. However, I usually recommend that new boaters start small and used. You really don't know what you need until you have some experience and you will make some mistakes. Better to make that on a boat that is not too perfect or pricey . . . We'll help you choose and keep her running in the meantime.

BTW, I almost cried when my last boat sold and I saw her on another man's truck. Will be the same for my current mistress . . .

 

[amynbill]

Re: NOOB has questions about starter boat

Personally, I would never buy a used car, boat or even lawnmower. Never have and never will. I would rather pay extra to get a full warranty and be the first person to maintain something mechanical.

On this website alone there are a few threads going about used boats having problems.

Just my .02

 

[thrasher]

Re: NOOB has questions about starter boat

I would recomend starting with a used boat. As you start playing on the lakes, you will make alot of mistakes (drive up the ramp with the outdrive down, hit shallow areas of the lake, etc) and you will be in tears if you do this to a new boat, a used boat makes the mistakes less painfull.
A used boat will also force you to learn basic mechanics to keep the boat running and in good order, this is invaluable when later on you have a problem, you can often fix it yourself on the lake rather than pay for an expensive tow-in..
Yes there is a more risk buying used, so see if you can find an experienced boater to come with you when you want to test/buy a boat.
But I would strongly recomend to start with a smallish used boat, learn from it and then in a years time when you clearly know what you want and what you feel comfortable (and you have made your mistakes) buy a new boat that exactly meets your needs.
Do check what your car can tow, remember what the manufacturer claims it can tow and what it will tow are too different things. As a guide I would recomend not towing anything that weighs more than 60% of your vehicles maximum rated towing capacity, otherwise the car can become very scary to drive and stop!! Again if you start with a smallish boat you can get use to how your car handles with the extra weight and then decide when you buy a newer boat a year later if you feel comfortable towing more weight or not.
Don't forget that a used boat depreciates very little so after a year you can probably sell your boat for what you bought it for, Unless one of your mistakes destroyed it!! So this can be a cheap way to learn, it's just very important to buy a good used boat and that means you need someone with boat experience to go with you when you buy the boat..

Gary

 

[hunter0527]

Re: NOOB has questions about starter boat

Well thanks for the quick replies! I will have the wife and 2 young kids with most of the time. I just looked online and the v6 Xterra was rated for 5000 lbs towing capacity so I dont think that will limit the size (wasnt thinking of a huge boat, def. less than 20ft)?I was thinking that a used boat would be better but it seems you hear more horror stories about used boats and what they have been through more than the used boats that are great buys and thought a new one with a warranty would be better?! So some questions I now have are... What is a good boat (brand) to buy used? I have read volvo engines are better than merc (maybe a personal preference, but read they are cheaper to maintain)? What size boat would you recommended? What kind of price would I be looking at for a good used boat? Again, Thanks for all the quick responses!!!!

 

[Jack Daniels]

Re: NOOB has questions about starter boat

I boat a used 83 bayliner from friends of mine. She was in mint condition and the outboard was in great shape. I just took it into the mechanic today to fix a "mistake" and was told its in fantastic shape. The boat i bought was 16 ft and very light, approximately 1500 lbs fully loaded. I enjoy it and its a perfect starter for me. Keep in mind that your going to have to store it so depending on where you are storing it the size is important. I wanted somethign smaller so i can store in my garage so dont have to pay the storage fees. Just a thought. Good luck and keep us informed on how it goes.

 

[hunter0527]

Re: NOOB has questions about starter boat

Again, I am not looking to buy right now. Boating season is over here. I am looking for next season but I am trying to get a jump on learning so I am not diving into cloudy water next season. I was just doing some looking to find something that I think is what I want at a price that doesnt seem bad, but again, being a noob I dont know what is pricey, what is good, and what is bad...

I just came across this one http://www.boats.com/listing/boat_d...20&clk_srcrvs_nav&srh_prev=true&srh_next=true), and it looks nice, but just want some thoughts.

This one is nice too but is it too big? Is it a good price for the boat?
http://www.iboats.com/cgi-bin/marine_classifieds/adv-search.cgi?id=295184


I just want to get an idea of what brand to look for and a size. Once I figure this out (hopefully with your help) shopping will get easier. I have a car port that will have to suffice for storing unless something else comes up. Anyway, what are some other costs I may incur with maintenance, winterizing, and what are simple things that I can do. I am not that mechanically inclined but can do some simple things.

One last thing... I plan on getting insurance, but is it required? How many of you have taken boating classes? Do you recommend buying used from a dealer to have a relationship or from the guy down the street then trying to find a good dealer for service?

 

[mudmagnet63]

Re: NOOB has questions about starter boat

Although you may not want to buy right now there are a lot of good deals this time of year up until christmas. Boat season is winding down holidays comming up Keep your eyes open new or used it can pay off

 

[Ezrider_92356]

Re: NOOB has questions about starter boat

i agree now is the time to buy boats are going cheep in the spring your be lucky to find a jon boat with an 5hp motor that runs for under $1000

 

[KCook]

Re: NOOB has questions about starter boat

You have a LOT of options. Here are links to some more threads on small boat selection -

http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=107914

http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=189419

Kelly Cook

 

[PondTunes]

Re: NOOB has questions about starter boat

Boat insurance is dirt cheap from what I've seen, and if you, or one of the family happens to run over someones dock or otherwise damage someone else's property you'll be covered. Mine on my 26' pontoon boat costs about $12.00/month

As far as general expenses you'll run across you've got to buy gasoline for the boat, your tow vehicle will also burn more gas than normal pulling it. If you have a 2 stroke outboard you'll need outboard oil thats about 20.00/gallon. Mine burns up a gallon or so every 4-5 weekends (depending on use) You'll probably have a cooler full of drinks, snacks, maybe lunch. The kids will eventually want a tube or other water toy, this incurs more accessories

We spend (family of 3) at least $100.00 on a 2 day weekend, if you spend the entire time near WOT you'll probably use more.

A boating course will help educate you on proper procedures and the basic do's and dont's. I would recommend taking a course even if you have someone experienced to teach you.

 

[roozterdvx]

Re: NOOB has questions about starter boat

As others have stated, now is a buyers market for boats. The season is ending in most locales and most people who have decided to sell, don't want to wait until spring and deall with winterizing and storage. Spring and summer prices are always higher and most people who make the decision to buy get anxious and usually spend their money too quickly, (yes I've been there, done that), only to find a better deal weeks later.

I recommend a used boat. What you may think you want now, may not suit you as you thought, and you will take less of a hit on resale. My first boat was brand new, and I traded it in a year later on something completely different. I didn't take too bad of a hit only because the manufacturer raised their price dramatically for that year and my trade-in value was only $800 lees than my purchase price. The dealer actually resold the boat about 2 weeks later for more than my original price!

Again, I am not looking to buy right now. Boating season is over here. I am looking for next season but I am trying to get a jump on learning so I am not diving into cloudy water next season. I was just doing some looking to find something that I think is what I want at a price that doesnt seem bad, but again, being a noob I dont know what is pricey, what is good, and what is bad...

I just came across this one http://www.boats.com/listing/boat_d...20&clk_srcrvs_nav&srh_prev=true&srh_next=true), and it looks nice, but just want some thoughts.

This one is nice too but is it too big? Is it a good price for the boat?
http://www.iboats.com/cgi-bin/marine_classifieds/adv-search.cgi?id=295184


I just want to get an idea of what brand to look for and a size. Once I figure this out (hopefully with your help) shopping will get easier. I have a car port that will have to suffice for storing unless something else comes up. Anyway, what are some other costs I may incur with maintenance, winterizing, and what are simple things that I can do. I am not that mechanically inclined but can do some simple things.

One last thing... I plan on getting insurance, but is it required? How many of you have taken boating classes? Do you recommend buying used from a dealer to have a relationship or from the guy down the street then trying to find a good dealer for service?

 

[hunter0527]

Re: NOOB has questions about starter boat

Thanks for all the replies. I think that a used boat will better fit me. I wish I had the money to buy now but dont. Once my car is paid off, early spring I will be in the market. Hopefully something will come along at that time. Until then I will be doing the research to find out what is best to suit me and the family.

I was just looking at bayliner and glastrons websites and notice that a 18.5' bow rider are right around $17k brand new. I didnt think that was too bad a price for a new boat. In the used market how do these boats hold up. Are there specific used boats that are better than others? Will a 135HP inboard be enough power for me? Obviously if a 190HP comes along at the right price I would rather that but if not I just want to make sure that 135 is sufficient.
How many of you have a 135hp boat and feel that it is sufficient for your needs.

I really have learned a lot about boat brands, and such over the past few days. I appreciated everyone taking the time to help me figure out what is best for me. Thanks!!!

 

[mrfixitman40]

Re: NOOB has questions about starter boat

another thing you want to consider is where you will be launching or docking. I know there are places where i can launch my brothers 16' but can't launch my 18' due to the space and water depth . I am new to boating this year and never really wanted one until the deal i got came along . I was just gonna get it fixed up and sell it for a little extra cash now every weekend we are out . the kids love it the wife enjoys it. where are you from? Maybe someone here is close enough to help you look at used boats and show from their experiance what to look for .

 

[RWilson2526]

Re: NOOB has questions about starter boat

Thanks for all the replies. I think that a used boat will better fit me. I wish I had the money to buy now but dont. Once my car is paid off, early spring I will be in the market. Hopefully something will come along at that time. Until then I will be doing the research to find out what is best to suit me and the family.

I was just looking at bayliner and glastrons websites and notice that a 18.5' bow rider are right around $17k brand new. I didnt think that was too bad a price for a new boat. In the used market how do these boats hold up. Are there specific used boats that are better than others? Will a 135HP inboard be enough power for me? Obviously if a 190HP comes along at the right price I would rather that but if not I just want to make sure that 135 is sufficient.
How many of you have a 135hp boat and feel that it is sufficient for your needs.

I have a 20 year old 18' bow rider with 3.0 135 hp mercruiser. For me it works just fine. Top speed hits close to 40 mph. pulls a tube just fine. Only tried to get a water skier up one time and it was a little hard for him although there were 3 adults and 3 small kids in the boat at the time. Where I live there is always boat traffic wether I'm at the lake or in the bay so I find I can never run WOT much anyway. At 40 mph in an 18' boat unless it is like glass (which it never is) your wife is going to be telling you to slow down anyway. This is my first boat too...had it for just this past season. Hitting the boat shows this year ready to move up after next season to something newer and bigger. As everyone has suggested it has been a great starter boat. Have learned alot and made my mistakes.

 

[luckyinkentucky]

Re: NOOB has questions about starter boat

BUY NEW! Especially if this is your first boat. You don't want to have your boating 'experience' ruined by having to fix the various problems that arise with a used boat. I paid a decent price for a '95 Skeeter Fish n' Ski not too long ago, and it was in excellent condition. I bought the boat well below book value, and the previous owner was the first and only owner. He had only put around 300 hours on the boat in 13 years.

It was an excellent deal, but I've run across things that have been waiting to surface for 13 years, and sitting is the worse thing you can do to an engine. I've spent close to $5000 on what looks like, to most, to be a boat that was perfectly fine. I've got her from running 52 to 55 when I bought her to running in the mid 60's now. But it has been rough.

In other words, you don't want to buy a boat without a warranty for your first, because you will be fixing things instead of out enjoying your purchase. Buy a new boat, and , believe me, the benefits will far outweigh the price. You save your time, sanity, and frustration when you buy new.

I finally have my boat where it needs to be, and it took $5000 and 3 months to get it there. If I had bought a 2007 Nitro Fish n' Ski I would have saved myself a lot of time and headache with learning how to fix things I had no idea about. Hind sight is always 20/20, and sometimes if you listen to those around you then you save yourself from learning the hard way.

Also, from previously being in boat sales myself, always pay the little extra and have the engine warrantied beyond it's basic time frame. The benefits will far outweigh the price in this area as well. I think most engines can be warrantied up to a total of 7 years now if I'm not mistaken. Almost any engine will have something go wrong right out of the basic warranty period, and this will save you the trouble later on.


By the way ... what river do you live on?

 

[hunter0527]

Re: NOOB has questions about starter boat

I am from central PA, about an hr directly north of harrisburg. I live within walking distance to the Susquehanna river and home to I think one of the largest inflatable dams. I have lived here all my life and have never taken advantage of the river but cant wait! Now I am back to thinking new or used?! I see both sides of the fence. Used, you make mistakes and its a used boat. New has warranties to go along with it, plus HOPEFULLY no problems, if so its in warranty. I think the 135 hp engine will be fine because it will just be the wife and 2 kids mostly. Im sure we will have a friend or 2 join now and then. Im not sure if im comparing apples to apples or not but my friend had an outboard 65hp on a aluminum fishing boat (sea nymph?) that would pull skiers with 3 or so people in the boat no problem. Anyway.... just feeling the waters to see what everyone suggests!

 

[2broke4this]

Re: NOOB has questions about starter boat

I had my first boat for all of 6 months until I found something else that does more of the things I want in a boat. However, there have been plenty of times when I've wished that I could have the old one back... The first boat was a 1987 19.5' Bayliner Capri cuddy with a 3.0L I/O (130-140 hp). It didn't quite have the power I was looking for (mostly for watersports with a decent load of people in the boat) but it was in near perfect condition. The big problem was that if I had a few friends in the boat (almost always) it struggled to stay on plane in turns and I had to have someone dive into the cuddy to get it up and going again. Having to run the boat at WOT all the time probably isn't the best thing for a boat's longevity.

My "new" boat is a 1986 Ebko (I hadn't heard of it either) Biarritz 210ss (just over 20 feet). This one is an open bow (more seating), has a deeper Vee (bigger wake for the wakeboarding friends), and a 260hp Mercruiser. I paid less for it than I paid to buy the first boat, but I've dumped quite a bit of time and money into it... and it's usable now, but nowhere near done. I am by no means a mechanical wizard, but with some help I've pulled and replaced the floor, reinforced the stringers where they needed it (didn't have to completely rip them out), resurrected the rumbling V-8, and gotten it into running order. Now I've got all the finish work to do!

My girlfriend sometimes thinks I love the boat more than I love her, but when we are on the water she really enjoys it. I was (still am not) in any position to buy a new boat, but my exploits in used boating have taught me a ton and have gotten me on the water without having to donate body parts to pay for it.

As far as the tow vehicle goes... I ended up buying something a little stronger after a few miserable long distance tows. Make sure your brakes are functioning perfectly (replaced everything on the van before I ever hooked up the boat) and be sure your trailer has working brakes. I had a scare going through Atlanta traffic with my BIL's truck (2000 F-150) and my boat... a few stops and I was terrified!

The moral of the story is... if you buy used, I can almost guarantee that you'll be spending some time sorting out a few issues, but there are a ton of people on this site who will be more than willing to help you along the way... AND... you won't have a loan hanging over your head for the next 15 years!

One more thing... this is just my humble opinion... hang around here long enough and you'll start to see whose opinions carry a little more weight than others (mine really isn't one of those!). Good luck with whatever you decide!

-Carl

 

[QC]

Re: NOOB has questions about starter boat

135 bhp I/O performs like a 85 hp OB on a light boat.

I bought new for my first boat and we kept it for 11 years . . . so I didn't folllow my own advice. Only had one warranty claim and I ended up having to redo their repair myself a year or so later. They lag bolted the motor mounts and it just woudn't hold . . . All other work I have ever done on all four of my boats was self inflicted and/or self repaired. We bought that first boat in '84, so that's 23 years of boating across four different boats (2nd one was new also and had it for 9 years) and one warranty claim that wasn't done right anyway I guess the point is that warranty should not be the entire reason to buy new. Maybe a small part of the decision, but I am not sure it should be the whole reason. New boats are great just like new cars etc., but it may be more about excitement than any tangible reason. Nothing wrong with that, but a well cared for boat (or a POS that is restored by somebody competent) can be trouble free for 30+ years.

 

[QC]

Re: NOOB has questions about starter boat

My girlfriend sometimes thinks I love the boat more than I love her

And what the honkin' heck is wrong with that?