By way of a brief introduction, I’m a marina rat, past marine magazine editor and current sales manager for a mid-size dealership in the Northeast. My last ride was a 27-foot semi-custom center console mostly used for fishing. Since my time on the water has dwindled, I decided to replace the center-console with a little more creature comforts. So I recently purchased a used 31-foot express-style, diesel-powered fishing boat.

Our dealership sells new fishing and cruising yachts and maintains an extensive list of brokerage vessels. I’m sad to say our used boat list is oozing with neglected boats of all makes, models and years. They’re not necessarily abused, just left like a dog tied to a parking meter waiting for its master.

Where Have All the Boaters Gone?
“I can’t find the time to boat, play golf and run my company,” is spoken in my shop more than I care to hear. And the oldest segment of the market, the snowbird set, may now think twice about north/south boating and some abbreviate their seasons. Smaller, more easily maneuvered and maintained boats appeal to older boaters and some choose to leave one boat in each venue—a good thing. Some get out all together—bad, very bad. It’s also sad because it’s such a great sport.

Time to Buy
For the past decade used boat prices have held firm, keeping the spread between late models and new models from becoming overwhelming. Both markets remained strong. Now new prices have crept up with the increased cost of petroleum based products, such as resin.
The very cheap money from low interest rates has also started to shrink. In fact, the marine finance lenders are tending to an influx of owners who years back purchased boats on low-rate adjustable home equity loans. They are now opting for fixed-rate boat loans, as rates creep north.
In my opinion, it’s a perfect market for the savvy buyer to purchase—new or old. Private sellers and dealers wanting to move product have become aggressive with their pricing. Keep in mind though, if what you want is in high demand and inventories are low, a bargain will be hard to find. So what might be right for you, new or used, big or small, gas or diesel, express or sedan?

Grab a pen and pad and make an honest list of what you expect out of your boat and your boating season. Here’s a list of things to consider. My boating needs have changed drastically, and for the same bucks I had in my old boat, I now have a better match for my lifestyle. We can do the same for you.

Ask Yourself These Key Questions Before Buying Your Next Boat?

• Who will be boating with you 85 percent of the time?
• What will you being doing during that time?
• What will you be doing the other 15 percent?
• Realistically where will you be taking your boat?
• Realistically where would you like to take your boat?
• Where will you dock in the summer and winter?
• Who are the local mechanics, what brands do they service?
• What is your and your crew’s experience on the water?
• Are there any special considerations/ handicaps?
• What’s your budget?
• What is your time frame to purchase a new boat?
• How long do you expect to keep this boat?
• What would happen if you had to sell immediately?
• Are you mechanically inclined?