Buying Your First Power Boat

The unrivaled sensation of being on the open ocean, feeling of freedom and lifestyle that parallels it, allows boaters to understand the return of such a large investment of owning a boat. If you are lucky enough to have recognized that pleasure and are thinking about buying a boat of your own, there are a few specifications you want to look for in your first boat. A center console, 16 to 24 feet with outboard motors are ideal for your first boat.

Center consoles are perfect for day trips, fishing, water sports, diving and above all, maneuverability and accessibility. They have plenty of space for bait tanks, ice lockers, holding gear and seating. They are easy to handle with the ability to access everything that is going on around you, including docking and launching. The V-shaped design allows for tighter turns, more speed and fuel efficiency. They are perfect for fishing but also to take the family out for a spin.

It is important that your first boat can easily be captained by just you. You may not always have assistance out on the water. The bigger the boat means more features and more things that can go wrong or break. If you purchase a boat bigger than 25 feet, in most cases, you will not be able to trailer it yourself. However, it should have enough room for your ideal crew. You most likely will have to pay for a slip or at the very least dry stack storage.

Outboard motors, compared to inboard and inboard/outboard, are the best fit for first time boat owners. They are easier to maintain with the ability to access the engine and lift the propeller out of the water when not in use. They are easier to handle with the clear direction and the turn of the motor. Most importantly, the outboard motor is positioned on the back of the boat, rather than the engine positioned in the hull, to give you more valuable space out of your boat.

Boating can be a lot of work, so knowing what kind of boat is best for you, will save a lot of headaches and leave you feeling good about your new investment. You want your first boat to be easy to launch, easy to handle on the water and easy to get out of the water when you're done playing. If these things happen, you'll be more apt to enjoy your time on the water. Enjoy chasing the feeling of freedom of cruising on the open ocean in your new power boat!

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