Questions to Ask Your Boat Dealer Before Making a Purchase

Buying a boat can be a significant financial investment, and you’ll want to select the perfect model for your family and marine lifestyle. Otherwise, you might overpay for a vessel that doesn’t match your needs. To avoid this, partner with a reliable boat dealer who can help you find the perfect boat for your endeavors. Here are a few key questions you should ask your dealer before purchasing a boat!

What’s the Total Cost of Owning a Boat?

First, understand the cost of owning a boat since this extends far beyond the sticker price. Being familiar with the ownership cost can help you avoid unpleasant surprises and make your ownership journey fun and memorable.

Ask your dealer to help you understand the expenses of owning a boat, including fuel, maintenance, insurance, taxes, registrations, and more. You can also ask them about any hidden costs when buying a boat.

What Type of Boat Best Suits My Needs?

You’ll want to select the perfect boat for your needs. That’s why you should let your dealer know your goals and expectations and ask them to recommend models that best fit your requirements.

You should discuss your planned activities, boating experience, and the intended frequency of use, and let your dealer suggest brands and models that match your expectations.

Can I Test Drive the Boat?

Finally, ask your dealer if you can test drive the boat to ensure it handles well on the water. A test drive lets you observe the vessel's performance, weight handling capacity, and how comfortably you can operate it. So, don't hesitate to ask your dealer to arrange a test drive, regardless of whether you’re buying a new or a used vessel.

We hope you find these tips handy when buying a boat. If you need more information or help to select the perfect vessel for your marine adventures, contact Thayer’s Marine. We are in Norwich, CT, and are proud to serve those from Springfield, MA, and New Jersey!