Newbie here

[2000silvers2k]

Just wanted to introduce myself.

I am a total newbie to boats. I used to go out on my uncles boat alot as a kid, and have been on boats a few times in my adult life. I love being on the water and to me boats are just pure enjoyment. Lately i have been contemplating selling my car (2000 S2000) now that its paid off and buying a used, in good condition 18-20' bow rider. something like this looks appealing to me and is in my budget:

http://nh.craigslist.org/boa/1724174504.html

I am thinking i could sell the car for around 10k, and use that money towards a boat. I don't want to spend more then that though. my goal is NO payment.

I am not sure if this is a good idea, as I am very unfamiliar with boats and I do not want to end up with a money pit. I know boats are high maintenance, but what are my yearly costs going to be with something like the boat above. It will be trailered with my Tundra so There would be no docking fee.

Also, does a boat need to be registered in every state it is used in? or is it like a car and only needs to be registered in its home state?

I look forward to learning alot about boating here to help make my decision and purchase alot more comforting.

-Chris

Goffstown NH

 

[DuckHunterJon]

Re: Newbie here

Couple of notes. First BOAT stands for "Break Out Another Thousand". Boating isn't cheap - but it doesn't have to be incredibly expensive either. Find a good used boat that has been taken care of. If you aren't sure what to look for, take an experienced friend, or take it to a mechanic to look it over. It will be well worth it.

Secondly, take a boaters course. Not sure if it's requried in NH or not, but just do it. You will learn many valuable things in the course, and it should give you a slight discount on insurance.

The boat and trailer only has to be registered in the state you have residence in.


For what it's worth, I think you are going about it right - asking the right questions, and thinking about the decision. Too many people fall in love with a boat and buy it not thinking about the details (I can only say that because that's how I bought my first boat!).

As for the boat you are looking at, it would make a nice first boat to learn on. Hope all that helps. Ask lots of questions, that's what this forum is all about!

 

[marcortez]

Re: Newbie here

Looks like a clean boat....galvanized trailer is good....so is a cover.

Do your due diligence on mechanical systems and take someone with you who is familiar with boating and the "moving" parts.

Annual costs can vary widely....oil/filter/lower unit oil changes, a belt here or there, spark plugs, fuel filters, copious amounts of grease where needed, trailer tires when needed, wax and cleaners and untold amounts of fuel.

The Tundra will pull it just fine.

Paid in full has a very nice ring to it.

If your fishing out of state with the boat, you may need a special stamp on your license, allowing you to angle in out of state waters.

Yes, boats and their equipment are maintenence intensive....not to mention more expensive than a car or truck.....it's just the way it is with "marine" items.
But.....look at the fun you and your family will have.....priceless!!!!!

 

[tschmidty]

Re: Newbie here

You are on the right track, I'd recommend leaving a couple thousand for maintenance and other things you will need to get for the boat. There is always something you want or need so give yourself that cushion when you are pricing boats out.

 

[BigBoatinOkie]

Re: Newbie here

Boating is awesome! I bought my first boat about a year ago on a whim. I wound up with a boat that I've had to do a full rest on, but I didn't ask questions before I jumped into it, and got burned. With a budget around 10K, you should be able to find a very nice used boat in like new condition if you have patience. As far as yearly expenses are concerned, you'll have some maintenance to take care of, but if you are willing to learn how to do things yourself, it doesn't need to be expensive. I know a lot of people spend a lot of money having mechanics do all their work, but most maintenance requirements are very easy once you familiarize yourself with with the procedures. Matter of fact, I'm astonished by the amount of people who pay someone to winterize their boats, it's easy. Anywho, just take your time and I'm confident you can find a boat that fits your budget and will give you years of trouble free fun.

 

[Lrider]

Re: Newbie here

Welcome, I hope you will find this as informative has I have

Read the attached thread, it was posted a while back but is a wealth of information

: http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=401161&highlight=3000

 

[dave11]

Re: Newbie here

A bow rider or dual consol boat is really versatile. A great choice. I would consider getting a four stroke outboard for your first boat.

 

[mlrman]

Re: Newbie here

dude, just do it! I recently bought my first boat for $3800 realizing it is a very clean boat but will need some maintenance. Shop around, do your research, and have a blast with your boat!