Buying your first boat should be exciting, not confusing. This guide walks through the five decisions that matter most, from setting a budget to the day your boat is delivered to the ramp.
1. Set your budget
Start with the monthly number you are comfortable with, not the sticker price. Most of our customers finance over 10 to 15 years, which keeps a well-equipped pontoon or bowrider in the same range as a car payment. Leave room for the trailer, a safety kit and the first season of fuel and slip fees.
- Get pre-approved before you shop so you know your range
- Ask for the out-the-door price, including rigging and freight
- Have your trade-in valued early, it changes the math
2. Pick the right type
Be honest about how you will use the boat on a normal Saturday, not the one big trip you are imagining. Families who mostly cruise and swim are happiest on a pontoon. Skiers and surfers want a dedicated wake boat. Anglers want a deep V hull with a trolling motor and plenty of rod storage.
We bought our first pontoon here in 2009 and our third one last spring. Same people, same honest advice, same service bay.
Karen and Mike, Lake Winnipesaukee
3. The sea trial
A sea trial is the best hour you will spend before buying a boat. Bring the people who will use it most and plan on trying everything you would do on a normal day on the lake.
- Walkthrough at the dock with your sales advisor
- Thirty minutes on the water with a technician aboard
- Trade-in valuation and financing options back at the showroom
4. Ownership costs
Beyond the payment, plan for an annual service, winter storage and insurance. Here is what a typical season looks like for an outboard boat up to 24 feet.
| Item | When | Includes | Typical cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100 hour service | Mid season | Oil, filters, gear lube, inspection | $389 |
| Winterization | October | Fogging, antifreeze, battery storage | $249 |
| Shrink wrap | October | Vented cover, door optional | From $18 per ft |
| Spring commissioning | April | De-winterize, systems check, wash | $299 |
5. Paperwork and delivery
We handle registration, title and warranty setup for you. On delivery day a technician walks you through the boat, launches it with you and stays until you are comfortable at the helm. Questions after that go straight to the same service desk, phone (407) 555-0100.
Ready to find your next boat?
Browse new and pre-owned boats across our Orlando, Kissimmee and Sanford yards, book a sea trial, or talk to our team about financing, trade-ins and service.
