From establishing relationships with others who own boats and participating in boating classes such as navigation, VHF, STCW, and SOLAS to selecting a group of friends to act as the crew of your boat. Let's take a look at some random boat ownership advice.
Get Your Hands Dirty and Stock Up
It is true that adopting a mindset of “do it yourself,” keeping the right replacement parts on-hand, and engaging in preventative maintenance can lead to cost savings in a number of different ways.
Lifestyle and Financial Changes
Because purchasing a boat can include some big life and financial changes, you should make sure that you have discussed this topic with your family and/or significant other before taking the plunge. Financially speaking, you are going to willfully spend extra money on your boat, maybe not in big one-time purchases, but over-time. Listen, if you've elected to pay cash to be on water, this is something that is going to come with the territory, and 10 to 20 percent upkeep per year is just an average. Lowering costs can be accomplished in a variety of ways by having a DIY attitude, keeping the appropriate replacement parts on-hand, and staying on top of your own preventative maintenance.
New Vs. Old Boats
A new boat will cost you more money up front, but it will save you money on maintenance and repair costs in the long run, whereas a used boat will save you money in the short term but cost you in the long run.
Boat Ownership Is Your “Own” Passion
Do not waste your time trying to explain to other people WHY you truly want a boat since they will not comprehend your reasoning. Your passion is your passion.
New Friends and Acquaintances
You should get ready to make a lot of pals because people who like to boat tend to be really good buddies. It is typical for individuals at docks to insist on helping you secure your boat. Overall you will learn that folks who own boats share their own friendly club and honor system.
Take Time To Learn
It would be in your best interest to take all of the boating classes that have been suggested to you. Navigation, VHF, STCW, and SOLAS will be your allies in this adventure. Even if you only have a small boat, it's still a good idea to get these certifications because while being on the water is fun, you never know when they might come in handy.
Deck Hands
You should begin the process of selecting buddies to crew your boat by selecting best friend types rather than outliers who have suddenly shown interest in participating. Your crew should ALWAYS be willing to put forth some effort to improve their skills alongside you.
Be Mindful Of Your Wake
Observe proper boater etiquette, remember that no wake zones really are no wake zones, ease up on the throttle, and take in the scenery.
Safety First
Flotation vests for everyone in your boat in addition to a comprehensive safety kit. You can never be sure when you'll require anything like this.
Share Your Advice…
What advice would you share to a new boat owner that you have learned from experience?
