How do you know what is a good name brand and type of boat to buy? I don't want to buy a high maintance boat.

Question

WHat is a good name brand of boat to buy. How is Sea Ray boats?

Answer 1

I would say buy a reputable boat that is manufactured in the country you live in.

Having purchased a US manufactured boat in the UK through the approved importer, all I can say is that it is a nightmare. Trying to get parts takes weeks, and after sales service is no where near as good as with native manufacturers.

If you're in the US, Sea Ray are good boats, with a quality finish. I would steer clear of Maxum and Bayliner.

Answer 2

Sea Ray is a great boat.  But it may not meet your wants or needs, and they make many models from smaller runabouts to nice cruisers.  

First decided what type of boat you want, not brand.  Then study up on that type of boats by reading boat mags, local fishing / cruising publications and asking around at the local marinas, boat stores, and sport shops.   Ask alot of questions, people like to talk about their boats. Then go shopping for what you want and what you will be happy with.

And if you are just starting out at boating, take a boating safety course.

Answer 3

Sea Ray is a good boat, but depending on how much you plan on using it.  It might prove to much to start.  All, and I do mean All , boats cost money to maintain, just like a car.  The more expensive boats and those less expensive tend to have the same engines and drives.  It's the sub-systems that make the difference, like water systems or bulge pumps.  better to pick something you like at the price you can afford.

Answer 4

There are some low-maintenance boats out there, but they have no engines and no electronics.

Answer 5

Sea Ray is a good boat but on the high $$$ side. Chaparral has equal quality at a better price. You should update your question though and let us know what size boat you're thinking of buying or what you want to use it for since this can make a difference in the responses you get.

The key though is that every boat is going to have to be maintained and you have to expect to pay annually to keep from having to really pay down the road. Preventative maintenance is a necessary evil. You can save on some of the cost by doing some of the work yourself such as changing the oil (engines and generators), winterizing the water system if equipped, changing impellars, etc.

As an FYI I referenced Chaparral as we have owned two over the last 25 years. The first was an 89 2550SX w/ a 454 Merc that looked new when sold in 2005 and now are in an 04 330 Signature w/ twin Volvos and V-drives. The quality on these boats has been nothing but excellent and definitely carry a high recommendation from this boater.