Entry level boat buyer?

Question

What is a good way to learn more about boating before I buy one. I have never owned a boat but have always wanted one. I live near the NJ coast.

Answer 1

First, you need to decide which interest you more, power or sail. If you are into fishing, then you are more inclined to go power. There are a number of locations around the state where you can rent small boats by the hour or day. If you want to go further offshore, then you can always find 35-45' offshore finsihing boats with captains that will take you out for the day.

If sailing is your thing, then you need to decide if you want to go into the more leasure route of cruising, or the more exciting exhilerating side of the sport, racing. There is actually a fair amount of racing on the coast of NJ, and racing sail boats are always looking for crew. If you want to crew, you get most of the benefits of owning a boat without the expenses and headaches of maintaining them. It is also a great way to expand you circle of friends with boating experience.

Try contacting the Raritan Yacht Club or Atlantic Highlands Yacht Club. Both will get you connected with racers. Atltantic Highlands actually has a free class with both on the water and classroom sessions each spring.

Answer 2

Beg, borrow and steal for rides from friends and/or family.

Answer 3

Buy books and magazines...join forums...talk to people at marinas...take the US power and Sail Squadron courses.

Answer 4

First off decide what your primary usage will be.  This will steer you in the right direction for the type of boat.  If you just want to cruise around maybe look at a pontoon boat, but if fishing is your plans maybe something different will work, and you will need more power if skiing and pulling different toys is what interests you.  If you have never been around boats before with the above knowledge I would visit several dealers and talk with as many sales reps as possible to get an idea of what might be suitable.

A very good idea would be to take some type of class on boats and boating, especially if you are new to the sport. Several groups give these types of classes, some free and others very little cost.  Find this info on the Internet.

Then the best bet would be to rent a boat of the type you think you are interested in.  Use it for a few hours or a day to see if it will fit your needs.

Once you have done the above and know what you want, time to go shopping.  Take your time, make sure you understand everything involved with your prospective boat before you commit.

A good boat that meets your needs will give you years of pleasure, a bad one or one that doesn't fit you will be a drain on your pocketbook and a pain in your rear.

Answer 5

Start by Reading about boating/yachting

You can find them in book stores and Places like West Marine here is the link to stores in N.J.

http://www.westmarine.com/webapp/wcs/sto...

Also seriously consider taking a class from the Coast Guard Auxiliry

Link to Classes in N.J.

http://www.5nr.org/courses.php

Coast Guard Aux. Home Page

http://nws.cgaux.org/index.html