Here are several things that you should be aware of, that will help you make a much more informed decision.

* A new boat is very expensive

Once you start the shopping process, you’ll quickly see prices ranging from $25,000 for an entry level pontoon boat, all the way up to $60,000 for an entry level sport boat. These are entry prices that can get much more expensive as you start adding options.

* You have to store it somewhere

The two main options are the driveway or the marina. Many people have their shiny new toy sitting in their driveway 90% of the year. Are you sure that’s a good idea? Maybe you have a very big driveway or storage area. Either way, this is an important decision and there are many pros and cons to consider – Click here for more on this topic.

* You have to take care of your new boat

Do you wash and wax your own car and keep it detailed at all times? Owning a boat is something that requires a lot of maintenance. We find that the type of person who ENJOYS doing all of their own auto maintenance makes the best boat owner. If this is not your style – then you’ll have to consider marina storage and possibly hiring others to keep your boat clean and maintained.

* Do you have time to justify owning a new boat

Buying golf clubs and having them end up as a place to hang stuff on is bad enough – buying a new boat and having it sit unused is a very expensive mistake. Think about how much free time you actually have, and how much of that time you can dedicate to getting out on the water.

If you have the time, money, place and passion, then go for it! We hope you and your family will get the most out of the boating lifestyle. If you’re starting to second-guess the idea, then we might have saved you from a $60,000 mistake.

Here are a couple of other options for you

You could rent a boat. The main thing to consider about renting is liability. When you rent a boat, you generally assume ALL liability to the boat, and to any property damage or personal injuries.

A great option is joining a boat club. A boat club is much like a country club – you pay a set amount of money each month – you have access to an entire fleet of boats, rather than only the boat you purchased. Boat club members reserve their time on the boat and are the perfect option for those who simply don’t have the time to maintain a boat and want access to different boats. You simply show up and take the boat out, park it when you are done and go home. The club handles all of the hassles and keep you covered as far as insurance and liability.

Best of luck with your decision! The boating lifestyle is one of the most rewarding choices you can make for you and your family, and the memories you make on the water will last a lifetime. We hope to see you on the water!