How to choose the perfect boat

How to choose the perfect Boat

Buying a boat is a very big purchase decision, whether it is a small or large vessel. For many people it is the fulfillment of a dream and a lifestyle that the whole family can enjoy. Watson’s Marine have a full understanding of that feeling, as for many years they have experienced that boating lifestyle within many boats on the water, from small tinnies to ski boats, fishing boats large and small, including a variety of cruisers.

Being life-time boating lovers, we are more than happy to pass on our knowledge, helping you to purchase the right vessel for you needs. Watson’s Marine has three generations in the trade and over 50 years of experience in the marine trade.

That’s what you call a boating family!

Questions to ask before purchasing a boating rig for you & your family

1. Size of boat you need to accommodate people you wish to take boating?
2. Are you looking for a purpose-built boat or maybe an all-rounder?
3. Where would you like to use your boat, offshore or only in protected waters?
4. Will you be looking to go out for the day or are you interested in weekend trips or longer trips?
5. Are you looking for Glass or Aluminium?
6. Which boat has the best interior designs to suits you and your family?
7. Collect brochures & literature on boats, Motors & Trailers from your local marine dealer.                 
8. Would you prefer a new, boat motor & trailer or a used rig.
9. Picking the right rig to suit your budget can be hard.
10. Looking to purchase a used vessel. Best advise have it checked out by an authorized Marine Dealer.
11. Another important tip is to make sure you have the right hp engine to suit the vessel!
12. Over-powered vessels can become a real problem in the event of an accident on the water.
13. Under-powered vessels can also get you into trouble during bad weather.
14. When purchasing a boat for outside fishing, look for the following:
15. Handling characteristics in various sea conditions.
16. Crew comfort and safety – internal height of gun whale – available deck space.
17. Four stroke engine, when travelling long distances is cheaper on fuel.
18. A good trailer to get you to those far away fishing spots.
19. Good electronics to help find the fish.
20. Fuel capacity – to reach your favourite outside fishing grounds and enough to return.
21. Good safe storage for rod, reels and fishing tackle.
22. Lots of good shelving space to keep the vessel free of gear.
23. Performance – perfectly matched engines and the correct propeller.
24. Good set of trim tabs help when returning those long distances in bad weather.
25. Auto Pilots if fitted correctly can drive the boat better than the skipper in most cases.
26. Be sure all the safety gear in current and in good condition.

Check out the retailer making sure they are there for you.

It is best to deal with a retailer that runs their business by the BIA Marine Code of Ethics

1. Act honestly and fairly in the business dealings with their clients.
2. Maintain professional courtesy and integrity at all times in their dealings.
3. Ensure all advertising and representations are truthful and accurate.
4. At all times act in an environmentally responsible manner.
5. Do all that is possible to promote safe boating and education practices.
6. Render accurate, truthful & expert advice to their clients.
7. Strive for excellence in quality of service and products to their customers.

There’s a lot to thinks when choosing the right rig, but with a bit of thought and the right advice, you and the family will be out enjoying boating for many years to come.

For any boating advice, don’t hesitate to chat with the staff at Watson’s Marine Gympie.