Buying a Narrow Boat is a commitment that you will be making for a considerable amount of time in the future. So make your decision wisely.
Since buying a Narrow Boat is a big undertaking, you need to think carefully and buy one that meets your preferences and lifestyle. There are different types of Narrow Boats to choose from as they come in various sizes. The engine and stern will be different as well. So you need to know these details before you buy a boat as you don’t want to get stuck with one that does not suit you. So read below to find out how you can buy the boat of your dream.
Rent a Narrow Boat First
Before you buy a Narrow Boat, you should rent one first to see how it feels like to live on one. There will be several factors to take care of as living in a Narrow Boat is a big commitment. You are going to be in new territories where you will have to take care of yourself and your boat. So try to rent out a Narrow Boat before you buy one, this will give you a good idea of how your experience is likely to be on a Narrow Boat.
You should rent it out for a considerable amount of time, at least for a few months so that you can get an idea of what to expect while living on a Narrow Boat for a longer period. Renting a Narrow Boat can cost you anywhere from 200 to 1000 pounds per week along with additional costs. Once you are sure of buying one, you can check out narrow boats for sale online to buy the perfect boat for you.
Pick The Size Of Your Boat
Obviously, you are buying the boat with a few objectives in mind. For instance, if you plan to stay on the boat full time then you need to buy a bigger size boat. 50 feet or more is a better choice. The space of the deck where the boat will be anchored also plays a vital role while deciding on the size of the boat to get. The stern area of the boat comes in different sizes, some wider than others. Consider these factors when choosing the size of your boat.
Should You Buy A New Or a Used Boat
When you are going to invest a considerable amount of money behind your purchase you need to ponder the age-old question of whether you should buy a new boat or a used one. Buying a brand new boat is going to make a lot of sense financially as the depreciation rate for a new boat is a lot lower if compared to a motor vehicle. A new boat also means lesser costs for routine maintenance and it will come with a warranty too, making it a more lucrative option.
However, you are also likely to get a good price for a used boat that was very well maintained and cared for by its owner. It’s not uncommon to find a good quality boat for sale by the owner that is in pristine condition. But be sure to thoroughly check up the boat to avoid any disappointments afterward.
Costs To Run The Boat
After you have made significant investments to buy the boat, keep in mind that there will be more costs involved to run the boat that cannot be avoided. So to get an idea of what your costs of running the boat might be every month, you can talk to fellow cruisers and get an idea from their experiences. You have fixed costs for fuel and maintenance and the mooring fees, license, and insurance will be added on top of that.
Check The Condition Of The Boat Well Before Purchase
You really won’t have much to worry about and will have more peace of mind if you are buying a brand new boat. But in case you are opting for a used boat, then there are some factors that you need to keep an eye on before buying. If the equipment on board is in good condition, the paintwork is well maintained, the engines run smoothly, you can feel good that the boat was cared for well.
While checking the engine you should also check the gearbox to see if there are any leaks from the stern gear. Check out the batteries as well to see if the boat has sufficient power. To make sure there are no faults with the mechanics or systems of the boat you can get the boat surveyed by a qualified marine surveyor. He will have the expertise to check everything out and give you advice on your final decision.
Ensuring The Safety of the Boat
Theft is a major concern all boat owners have to deal with. This is why it is necessary to invest in a good security system to keep your boat secure. Buying locks for the windows and the fuel tanks should top the list. You must also equip the doors with sturdy bolts. When you dock the boat at a moor, try to choose a mooring place that has gates, this will keep your boat more secure when you are stepping away.
You must also get a license for your boat from the very get-go. You will need to get insurance first before you get the license. Many mooring marinas will require to see a license first hand. The good news is that boat licenses are far more adjustable than other insurances, which means your preferences can be easily matched while getting a license for your boat.
Final Thoughts
Buying a Narrow Boat may feel like a very taxiing and overwhelming ordeal, but the benefits far outweigh the hassles. You will have a boat of your own to live in and travel the seas whenever and wherever you feel like. Just be sure to go over the tips we mentioned above to make the whole experience an easy and hassle-free purchase. Happy sailing to you.