First Used Boat? What should I get?

[bluejason15]

Hi Boaters, <br />I'm new to the area in Beaufort, South Carolina and there's water everywhere and boats everywhere. I'm looking to buy my first used boat with the intention of just cruising around, a bit of fishing, shrimping, wake boarding (?) and just being on the water. My latest conclusion is to spend approx. $5,000 on a used boat. I've most recently seen a boston whaler, 1982 or '84 for sale for about $4999 and a 1996 Regal Rush XP asking $3600 or so. While they are both different, I just want something that runs and puts me on the water. Any advice for a newbie? <br />Thank you.<br />Jason

 

[KCook]

Re: First Used Boat? What should I get?

Welcome to iboats Jason. There are several different types for small boats. In the end the selection usually comes down to personal preference. But here are some more threads to give you some ideas -<br /><br /> Best starter boat for the Chesapeake? <br /><br /> Out/In Board vs. Jet <br /><br /> The I/O vs. Outboard Thread <br /><br />Best bet is to lean on somebody you know in your area for help.<br /><br />Kelly Cook

 

[pine island fred]

Re: First Used Boat? What should I get?

My opinion, the best all around boat is a center consol, at least 18 ft. Buy a hull and hang a new motor on it. That way you are not buying someones neglect or abuse. fred

 

[craze1cars]

Re: First Used Boat? What should I get?

In that low of a price range, just remember that brand and type of boat take a back seat to the most important thing....look for condition, condition, condition.<br /><br />Whatever you do, the most important thing is to PAY someone knowledgeable...marine surveyor or marina mechanic...to carefully inspect any boat you are considering. At under $5K you run an extremely high risk of buying some very expensive and hidden problems on a boat. Structural rot is the number one enemy, closely followed by drivetrain problems and improper maintenance. These problems plague a large percentage of the most beautiful shiny boats out there in the used market. Contrary to what many believe, this is NOT like buying a car. Much more can go wrong, and when it does it is much more dangerous, AND it costs much more to fix.

 

[DeliveryCaptain]

Re: First Used Boat? What should I get?

THere are some OPTIONS when buying a Used Boat,,BUT starting PRice is VERY Important-Craze1Cars wrote: "Under 5K run extreme risk of Buying some Very Expensive and Hidden Problems On a Boat" HE could not Be MORE Exact on this ONE..It is always better to Spend a few more Thousand,,Maybe 7500-8000. It will be MONEY well spent/ In fact Just saw a 2003 18' STingRay come in recently>>asking 7900. THERE are some Descent Bargains out there,,CHECK the DECK> SOft, or Flexes alot,, ALSO transom, PULL on it,(for O.B.) and Write Down Serial #'s On Motor and Check Computer for Warranty or Service!! THESE are Just a few that A Marine Surveyor would do during SEATRIAL> Must Run boat for At least 30-40min.. Will tell you Much; There are Some sites to Go to for Furhter INFO< BoatWatchUS.com Has List of Surveyors Here in S.E. US hope you do well in your search! Bill D. Ft. Myers, FL

 

[KCook]

Re: First Used Boat? What should I get?

I didn't want to rain on Jason's parade. But I do agree with Bill D. Bumping the purse up to near $8k should result in a boat that is more enjoyment, less headache.<br /><br />Kelly

 

[ae708]

Re: First Used Boat? What should I get?

bluejason15 if you'll email me I have some info for you. aeadie@sc.rr.com

 

[one more cast]

Re: First Used Boat? What should I get?

welcome aboard bluejason, If what you can afford to spend is $5000 then don't go over that amount or you may not be able to afford to use your new boat. Just make sure you have the $5000 boat checked over by someone that knows about boats and be sure and try it out ON THE WATER. If the seller won't let you test drive it then pass.Thats the way I see it anyway.

 

[fishnfiend]

Re: First Used Boat? What should I get?

Jason, I disagree that $5000 won't buy you a fine boat. It just buys the maintenance needs that comes with. As long as the needs are known (and professionally identified), and you go in with eyes open, you can get a helluva nice boat for $5000, especially in the fall when folks are looking to dump them off.<br /><br />One more thing to consider: I've read (and experienced) that people get a little crazy when buying boats, especially your first. Too tempting to fall in love with the fist boat you see. Look at lots of boats, pay for a survey of the one or two that look best (at least have the motor checked out).<br /><br />Some of us would rather fix someone elses neglect and save $2000-$4000. I just bought an '86 Searay. Drivetrain is excellent, hull and transom are perfect, interior is crap and floor is mush. Price was right. Will be replacing floor and anything else that needs replaced this winter. Gives me a project, you know, keeps me out of trouble!!<br /><br />Good luck and have fun!!

 

[bluejason15]

Re: First Used Boat? What should I get?

Hi and thanks for all the good info.<br />I'm most recently looking at a 15' 1984 boston whaler with a 1990 yamaha 70hp. Asking $5000. I wouldn't mind 17'... <br />It seems very important to make sure to do the following, and I will do so thanks to all your advice...<br />1. test ride <br />2. get it checked out by someone who knows<br />Thanks for all the thoughts. And I'll welcome more of them if they're out there!<br />J