There is a proverb about boat owners: ‘Happiest days in boat owners life is the day they buy it and the day they sell it ‘. This is not meant to discourage the future boat owners but to prepare them that having a boat is a serious commitment. Lots of people make mistakes thinking that purchasing a used boat means saving money. It is anything but that. And you will surely be happiest when you sell it or if you manage to keep it in such a shape.

Experienced boat owners say that you can not find an ideal boat at once and that you will probably be satisfied only with your third purchase. So if you feel like devoting yourself to something refreshingly new in your life, here are some pointers.

When deciding what boat to buy first you need to consider where you want to sail with it and for how long and how much are you willing to spend. This can give you an approximate size and speed of desired boat. Try not to be hooked by advertisement or brands – it will only confuse you and definitely drain your money.

A boat for family cruises or daylight sailing with one cabin for two or three people will cost you not more than a car or even a used one. You just need to carefully think what you really want out of that boat.

The important things you can check are:

• is the space for boarding wide enough

• does the engine makes cockpit too narrow

• enough room between the rudder and stem

Most importantly you need to be sure that the engine is proper – not bigger, not smaller but just right for the boat you want. To be sure when deciding it is most recommended to try out the boat by sailing. Only then you will be able to notice all qualities and flows – the speed, engine, use of fuel, details that are missing or are excess.

Better yet, if you have a friend with a Florida boat, you can spend some time with him to learn about everything that you will need to make the right choice. You should also consider the costs of maintenance – the equipment, parking space, etc.

Buying a boat is a conscience change of your life for the better and it requires a great deal of attention.