![\"A](\"http:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/06\/Copy-of-Boatsmart_1503.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nStep One: Know What You\u2019re Looking For<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nThe first step to buying a family boat is knowing what you\u2019re looking for, so there are several things to consider. First off, answer these questions along with your family:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- How many people does the boat need to fit?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Is this boat just for cruising, or are you also wanting to jet ski, tube, and practice other watersports?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Where will you be using the boat? (river, lake, etc).<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Do you want to dock the boat or tow and launch it<\/a>?<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
Once you\u2019ve determined what kinds of things you\u2019ll do on your boat, you can narrow down the category of boat you\u2019re buying. From speed boats to fishing boats, there are tons of options on the market. This way, you\u2019ll go into the process of knowing what category of boat you want to buy.<\/p>\n\n\n
\n![\"Father](\"http:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2015\/05\/Boating-and-Children.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nBOATsmart!\u2019s Top Choices for Great Family Boats<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWhere should you start your search for a great family boat? Here are a few of our top choices. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Cabin cruisers<\/strong><\/a>: If you\u2019re looking for a boat that comfortably fits your family to sleep in and enjoy themselves, a cabin cruiser is a great choice! They\u2019re bigger than the usual boat \u2014 and can be pricey \u2014 but they\u2019re a great investment if it\u2019s something you will use. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Bowriders<\/strong><\/a>: You can go large or small with bowriders, which are fun and great for families looking to enjoy life out on the water. They\u2019re customizable and buildable depending on what you\u2019re looking for, and they\u2019re versatile for a number of uses. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Sailboats<\/strong><\/a>: Everyone loves a classic sailboat, and sailboats are a great pick for a family boat if teamwork is your favorite part of being out on the water. These boats encourage family members to all participate in the boating process, which is a great learning opportunity as well as a bonding activity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Pontoon boats<\/strong><\/a>: Pontoon boats are definitely one of the best picks for families who like to relax on the water, whether you\u2019re looking for a laid-back experience or an engine with a little more punch. They can be smaller or on the bigger side, and they hold both the capability to lay back and the capability to have fun. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Walkarounds<\/strong><\/a>: Walkaround boats are good picks for those families who want the capability to move around freely and occasionally pull overnighters on the boats while also having a boat built for fun. With an enclosed section, they\u2019re a versatile option for families, friends, and those with children.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Jet boats<\/strong><\/a>: Jet boats are an option for families that like to have fun with watersports and fishing on the water. Jet boats don\u2019t have propellers; instead, they move the boat with a jet of water, which also increases safety. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Fish-and-ski boats<\/strong><\/a>: If you\u2019re looking for a boat that you can take out on family fishing expeditions as well as fun trips for waterskiing and other watersports, a fish-and-ski boat is your absolute best option. They offer both opportunities for your family, making them a good pick for the ultimate fun family boat. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
As you can see, there are plenty of options to choose from when buying a boat for the first time \u2014 but don’t get overwhelmed by the options. Just have fun and move on to Step 2. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Step Two: Browse, Browse, Browse<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nOnce you\u2019ve decided on the type of boat that fits your lifestyle, it\u2019s time to start looking. There are many benefits to buying a used boat (lower price, can be traded in later, lower commitment) and benefits to buying a new boat (it\u2019s only yours, it hasn\u2019t had issues, you\u2019re starting from zero). Whether you want to buy used or new, start combing sites and local dealers for the best deal on a boat you like. Just like when buying a car, do your research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Compare photos, look for details in listings, and keep an eye on things you may need to replace later. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then, go see the boat in person to get a feel for it. Just like you wouldn\u2019t buy a car sight unseen, you shouldn\u2019t buy a boat either. Inspect the boat from all sides, take it for a test ride, and consider having an expert take a look as well. Boats are significant purchases, so make sure you\u2019re happy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
We\u2019d also recommend taking the family along for the ride \u2014 it\u2019s a family boat, after all!<\/p>\n\n\n
\n![\"Water](\"http:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2019\/02\/simon-goetz-295601-unsplash-scaled-683x1024.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nStep Three: The Nitty-Gritty<\/strong> of Buying a Boat for the First Time<\/h2>\n\n\n\nAfter you\u2019ve found a boat that you like, it\u2019s finally time to buy it! Just make sure you pay attention to the details so you\u2019re not ending up with any bad surprises. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
First, purchase only from a reputable dealer or private seller who can provide proof of ownership and a title. You\u2019ll want to verify that there are no liens on the boat, and you\u2019ll want to make sure you have every piece of paperwork that you\u2019ll need to change over the title. Laws and guidelines vary depending on state and province<\/a>, but you\u2019ll need to alert the authorities responsible for a change in ownership for your new boat. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBefore taking the boat out on the water, verify that you and any family members planning to operate the boat are trained and licensed to do so. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Requirements to operate a boat vary depending on where you are, but BOATsmart! will be your partner in boating safety education with courses and certifications for everyone involved. <\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Smiling](\"http:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2012\/07\/KE_Boat_FL_2024-133-crop-1024x684.jpeg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nStep Four: Have Fun!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nYou\u2019ve done it! You\u2019re officially a first-time boat owner, and it\u2019ll be one of the best things that\u2019s happened to you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
After buying a boat for the first time, go out on the water, have fun, and stay safe. At BOATsmart!, we\u2019re here to ensure that you\u2019re properly licensed and to answer any questions you have about life on the water with your first family boat. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you’re buying a boat in Canada, take our Canada-approved course<\/a> and get your license. For boating with your family in the U.S., choose the course for your state<\/a> and start learning. <\/p>\n\n\n\nThen, happy boating!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Originally published August 4, 2020. Content most recently reviewed and updated August 9, 2024. <\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"From your water activities to your cruising specialties, here is a list of things you should consider when buying your first family boat.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10,"featured_media":126345,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[701],"tags":[921,753,754,923,922],"yoast_head":"\n
Our Guide to Buying a Boat for the First Time | BOATsmart! Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Are you buying a boat for the first time? Read BOATsmart!\u2019s guide to help you on your first-time search for a family boat and more fun on the water.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow\" \/>\n<meta name=\"googlebot\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<meta name=\"bingbot\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Our Guide to Buying a Boat for the First Time | BOATsmart! Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Are you buying a boat for the first time? Read BOATsmart!\u2019s guide to help you on your first-time search for a family boat and more fun on the water.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"BOATsmart! Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2023-07-14T18:24:00+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2024-08-09T19:19:46+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/06\/229A8666.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1500\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1000\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/\",\"name\":\"BOATsmart! Blog\",\"description\":\"Your destination for boating resources and stories to keep you safe and informed on the waterways.\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}\",\"query-input\":\"required name=search_term_string\"}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/#primaryimage\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/06\/229A8666.jpg\",\"width\":1500,\"height\":1000},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/#webpage\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/\",\"name\":\"Our Guide to Buying a Boat for the First Time | BOATsmart! Blog\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/#primaryimage\"},\"datePublished\":\"2023-07-14T18:24:00+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-08-09T19:19:46+00:00\",\"author\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/d60b0dad723d76b31282be0a7adc65be\"},\"description\":\"Are you buying a boat for the first time? Read BOATsmart!\\u2019s guide to help you on your first-time search for a family boat and more fun on the water.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":[\"Person\"],\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/d60b0dad723d76b31282be0a7adc65be\",\"name\":\"BOATsmart!\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/126435"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/10"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=126435"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/126435\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":127084,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/126435\/revisions\/127084"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/126345"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=126435"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=126435"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=126435"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
Once you\u2019ve determined what kinds of things you\u2019ll do on your boat, you can narrow down the category of boat you\u2019re buying. From speed boats to fishing boats, there are tons of options on the market. This way, you\u2019ll go into the process of knowing what category of boat you want to buy.<\/p>\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nBOATsmart!\u2019s Top Choices for Great Family Boats<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWhere should you start your search for a great family boat? Here are a few of our top choices. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Cabin cruisers<\/strong><\/a>: If you\u2019re looking for a boat that comfortably fits your family to sleep in and enjoy themselves, a cabin cruiser is a great choice! They\u2019re bigger than the usual boat \u2014 and can be pricey \u2014 but they\u2019re a great investment if it\u2019s something you will use. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Bowriders<\/strong><\/a>: You can go large or small with bowriders, which are fun and great for families looking to enjoy life out on the water. They\u2019re customizable and buildable depending on what you\u2019re looking for, and they\u2019re versatile for a number of uses. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Sailboats<\/strong><\/a>: Everyone loves a classic sailboat, and sailboats are a great pick for a family boat if teamwork is your favorite part of being out on the water. These boats encourage family members to all participate in the boating process, which is a great learning opportunity as well as a bonding activity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Pontoon boats<\/strong><\/a>: Pontoon boats are definitely one of the best picks for families who like to relax on the water, whether you\u2019re looking for a laid-back experience or an engine with a little more punch. They can be smaller or on the bigger side, and they hold both the capability to lay back and the capability to have fun. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Walkarounds<\/strong><\/a>: Walkaround boats are good picks for those families who want the capability to move around freely and occasionally pull overnighters on the boats while also having a boat built for fun. With an enclosed section, they\u2019re a versatile option for families, friends, and those with children.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Jet boats<\/strong><\/a>: Jet boats are an option for families that like to have fun with watersports and fishing on the water. Jet boats don\u2019t have propellers; instead, they move the boat with a jet of water, which also increases safety. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Fish-and-ski boats<\/strong><\/a>: If you\u2019re looking for a boat that you can take out on family fishing expeditions as well as fun trips for waterskiing and other watersports, a fish-and-ski boat is your absolute best option. They offer both opportunities for your family, making them a good pick for the ultimate fun family boat. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
As you can see, there are plenty of options to choose from when buying a boat for the first time \u2014 but don’t get overwhelmed by the options. Just have fun and move on to Step 2. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Step Two: Browse, Browse, Browse<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nOnce you\u2019ve decided on the type of boat that fits your lifestyle, it\u2019s time to start looking. There are many benefits to buying a used boat (lower price, can be traded in later, lower commitment) and benefits to buying a new boat (it\u2019s only yours, it hasn\u2019t had issues, you\u2019re starting from zero). Whether you want to buy used or new, start combing sites and local dealers for the best deal on a boat you like. Just like when buying a car, do your research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Compare photos, look for details in listings, and keep an eye on things you may need to replace later. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then, go see the boat in person to get a feel for it. Just like you wouldn\u2019t buy a car sight unseen, you shouldn\u2019t buy a boat either. Inspect the boat from all sides, take it for a test ride, and consider having an expert take a look as well. Boats are significant purchases, so make sure you\u2019re happy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
We\u2019d also recommend taking the family along for the ride \u2014 it\u2019s a family boat, after all!<\/p>\n\n\n
\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nStep Three: The Nitty-Gritty<\/strong> of Buying a Boat for the First Time<\/h2>\n\n\n\nAfter you\u2019ve found a boat that you like, it\u2019s finally time to buy it! Just make sure you pay attention to the details so you\u2019re not ending up with any bad surprises. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
First, purchase only from a reputable dealer or private seller who can provide proof of ownership and a title. You\u2019ll want to verify that there are no liens on the boat, and you\u2019ll want to make sure you have every piece of paperwork that you\u2019ll need to change over the title. Laws and guidelines vary depending on state and province<\/a>, but you\u2019ll need to alert the authorities responsible for a change in ownership for your new boat. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBefore taking the boat out on the water, verify that you and any family members planning to operate the boat are trained and licensed to do so. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Requirements to operate a boat vary depending on where you are, but BOATsmart! will be your partner in boating safety education with courses and certifications for everyone involved. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nStep Four: Have Fun!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nYou\u2019ve done it! You\u2019re officially a first-time boat owner, and it\u2019ll be one of the best things that\u2019s happened to you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
After buying a boat for the first time, go out on the water, have fun, and stay safe. At BOATsmart!, we\u2019re here to ensure that you\u2019re properly licensed and to answer any questions you have about life on the water with your first family boat. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you’re buying a boat in Canada, take our Canada-approved course<\/a> and get your license. For boating with your family in the U.S., choose the course for your state<\/a> and start learning. <\/p>\n\n\n\nThen, happy boating!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Originally published August 4, 2020. Content most recently reviewed and updated August 9, 2024. <\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"From your water activities to your cruising specialties, here is a list of things you should consider when buying your first family boat.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10,"featured_media":126345,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[701],"tags":[921,753,754,923,922],"yoast_head":"\n
Our Guide to Buying a Boat for the First Time | BOATsmart! Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Are you buying a boat for the first time? Read BOATsmart!\u2019s guide to help you on your first-time search for a family boat and more fun on the water.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow\" \/>\n<meta name=\"googlebot\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<meta name=\"bingbot\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Our Guide to Buying a Boat for the First Time | BOATsmart! Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Are you buying a boat for the first time? Read BOATsmart!\u2019s guide to help you on your first-time search for a family boat and more fun on the water.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"BOATsmart! Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2023-07-14T18:24:00+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2024-08-09T19:19:46+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/06\/229A8666.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1500\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1000\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/\",\"name\":\"BOATsmart! Blog\",\"description\":\"Your destination for boating resources and stories to keep you safe and informed on the waterways.\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}\",\"query-input\":\"required name=search_term_string\"}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/#primaryimage\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/06\/229A8666.jpg\",\"width\":1500,\"height\":1000},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/#webpage\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/\",\"name\":\"Our Guide to Buying a Boat for the First Time | BOATsmart! Blog\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/#primaryimage\"},\"datePublished\":\"2023-07-14T18:24:00+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-08-09T19:19:46+00:00\",\"author\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/d60b0dad723d76b31282be0a7adc65be\"},\"description\":\"Are you buying a boat for the first time? Read BOATsmart!\\u2019s guide to help you on your first-time search for a family boat and more fun on the water.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":[\"Person\"],\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/d60b0dad723d76b31282be0a7adc65be\",\"name\":\"BOATsmart!\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/126435"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/10"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=126435"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/126435\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":127084,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/126435\/revisions\/127084"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/126345"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=126435"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=126435"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=126435"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
As you can see, there are plenty of options to choose from when buying a boat for the first time \u2014 but don’t get overwhelmed by the options. Just have fun and move on to Step 2. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Step Two: Browse, Browse, Browse<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nOnce you\u2019ve decided on the type of boat that fits your lifestyle, it\u2019s time to start looking. There are many benefits to buying a used boat (lower price, can be traded in later, lower commitment) and benefits to buying a new boat (it\u2019s only yours, it hasn\u2019t had issues, you\u2019re starting from zero). Whether you want to buy used or new, start combing sites and local dealers for the best deal on a boat you like. Just like when buying a car, do your research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Compare photos, look for details in listings, and keep an eye on things you may need to replace later. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then, go see the boat in person to get a feel for it. Just like you wouldn\u2019t buy a car sight unseen, you shouldn\u2019t buy a boat either. Inspect the boat from all sides, take it for a test ride, and consider having an expert take a look as well. Boats are significant purchases, so make sure you\u2019re happy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
We\u2019d also recommend taking the family along for the ride \u2014 it\u2019s a family boat, after all!<\/p>\n\n\n
\n<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nStep Three: The Nitty-Gritty<\/strong> of Buying a Boat for the First Time<\/h2>\n\n\n\nAfter you\u2019ve found a boat that you like, it\u2019s finally time to buy it! Just make sure you pay attention to the details so you\u2019re not ending up with any bad surprises. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
First, purchase only from a reputable dealer or private seller who can provide proof of ownership and a title. You\u2019ll want to verify that there are no liens on the boat, and you\u2019ll want to make sure you have every piece of paperwork that you\u2019ll need to change over the title. Laws and guidelines vary depending on state and province<\/a>, but you\u2019ll need to alert the authorities responsible for a change in ownership for your new boat. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBefore taking the boat out on the water, verify that you and any family members planning to operate the boat are trained and licensed to do so. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Requirements to operate a boat vary depending on where you are, but BOATsmart! will be your partner in boating safety education with courses and certifications for everyone involved. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nStep Four: Have Fun!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nYou\u2019ve done it! You\u2019re officially a first-time boat owner, and it\u2019ll be one of the best things that\u2019s happened to you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
After buying a boat for the first time, go out on the water, have fun, and stay safe. At BOATsmart!, we\u2019re here to ensure that you\u2019re properly licensed and to answer any questions you have about life on the water with your first family boat. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you’re buying a boat in Canada, take our Canada-approved course<\/a> and get your license. For boating with your family in the U.S., choose the course for your state<\/a> and start learning. <\/p>\n\n\n\nThen, happy boating!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Originally published August 4, 2020. Content most recently reviewed and updated August 9, 2024. <\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"From your water activities to your cruising specialties, here is a list of things you should consider when buying your first family boat.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10,"featured_media":126345,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[701],"tags":[921,753,754,923,922],"yoast_head":"\n
Our Guide to Buying a Boat for the First Time | BOATsmart! Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Are you buying a boat for the first time? Read BOATsmart!\u2019s guide to help you on your first-time search for a family boat and more fun on the water.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow\" \/>\n<meta name=\"googlebot\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<meta name=\"bingbot\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Our Guide to Buying a Boat for the First Time | BOATsmart! Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Are you buying a boat for the first time? Read BOATsmart!\u2019s guide to help you on your first-time search for a family boat and more fun on the water.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"BOATsmart! Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2023-07-14T18:24:00+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2024-08-09T19:19:46+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/06\/229A8666.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1500\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1000\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/\",\"name\":\"BOATsmart! Blog\",\"description\":\"Your destination for boating resources and stories to keep you safe and informed on the waterways.\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}\",\"query-input\":\"required name=search_term_string\"}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/#primaryimage\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/06\/229A8666.jpg\",\"width\":1500,\"height\":1000},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/#webpage\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/\",\"name\":\"Our Guide to Buying a Boat for the First Time | BOATsmart! Blog\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/#primaryimage\"},\"datePublished\":\"2023-07-14T18:24:00+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-08-09T19:19:46+00:00\",\"author\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/d60b0dad723d76b31282be0a7adc65be\"},\"description\":\"Are you buying a boat for the first time? Read BOATsmart!\\u2019s guide to help you on your first-time search for a family boat and more fun on the water.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":[\"Person\"],\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/d60b0dad723d76b31282be0a7adc65be\",\"name\":\"BOATsmart!\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/126435"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/10"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=126435"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/126435\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":127084,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/126435\/revisions\/127084"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/126345"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=126435"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=126435"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=126435"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nStep Three: The Nitty-Gritty<\/strong> of Buying a Boat for the First Time<\/h2>\n\n\n\nAfter you\u2019ve found a boat that you like, it\u2019s finally time to buy it! Just make sure you pay attention to the details so you\u2019re not ending up with any bad surprises. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
First, purchase only from a reputable dealer or private seller who can provide proof of ownership and a title. You\u2019ll want to verify that there are no liens on the boat, and you\u2019ll want to make sure you have every piece of paperwork that you\u2019ll need to change over the title. Laws and guidelines vary depending on state and province<\/a>, but you\u2019ll need to alert the authorities responsible for a change in ownership for your new boat. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBefore taking the boat out on the water, verify that you and any family members planning to operate the boat are trained and licensed to do so. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Requirements to operate a boat vary depending on where you are, but BOATsmart! will be your partner in boating safety education with courses and certifications for everyone involved. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nStep Four: Have Fun!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nYou\u2019ve done it! You\u2019re officially a first-time boat owner, and it\u2019ll be one of the best things that\u2019s happened to you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
After buying a boat for the first time, go out on the water, have fun, and stay safe. At BOATsmart!, we\u2019re here to ensure that you\u2019re properly licensed and to answer any questions you have about life on the water with your first family boat. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you’re buying a boat in Canada, take our Canada-approved course<\/a> and get your license. For boating with your family in the U.S., choose the course for your state<\/a> and start learning. <\/p>\n\n\n\nThen, happy boating!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Originally published August 4, 2020. Content most recently reviewed and updated August 9, 2024. <\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"From your water activities to your cruising specialties, here is a list of things you should consider when buying your first family boat.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10,"featured_media":126345,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[701],"tags":[921,753,754,923,922],"yoast_head":"\n
Our Guide to Buying a Boat for the First Time | BOATsmart! Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Are you buying a boat for the first time? Read BOATsmart!\u2019s guide to help you on your first-time search for a family boat and more fun on the water.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow\" \/>\n<meta name=\"googlebot\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<meta name=\"bingbot\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Our Guide to Buying a Boat for the First Time | BOATsmart! Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Are you buying a boat for the first time? Read BOATsmart!\u2019s guide to help you on your first-time search for a family boat and more fun on the water.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"BOATsmart! Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2023-07-14T18:24:00+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2024-08-09T19:19:46+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/06\/229A8666.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1500\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1000\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/\",\"name\":\"BOATsmart! Blog\",\"description\":\"Your destination for boating resources and stories to keep you safe and informed on the waterways.\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}\",\"query-input\":\"required name=search_term_string\"}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/#primaryimage\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2020\/06\/229A8666.jpg\",\"width\":1500,\"height\":1000},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/#webpage\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/\",\"name\":\"Our Guide to Buying a Boat for the First Time | BOATsmart! Blog\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/#primaryimage\"},\"datePublished\":\"2023-07-14T18:24:00+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-08-09T19:19:46+00:00\",\"author\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/d60b0dad723d76b31282be0a7adc65be\"},\"description\":\"Are you buying a boat for the first time? Read BOATsmart!\\u2019s guide to help you on your first-time search for a family boat and more fun on the water.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/our-guide-to-buying-your-first-family-boat\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":[\"Person\"],\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/d60b0dad723d76b31282be0a7adc65be\",\"name\":\"BOATsmart!\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/126435"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/10"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=126435"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/126435\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":127084,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/126435\/revisions\/127084"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/126345"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=126435"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=126435"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=126435"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
Before taking the boat out on the water, verify that you and any family members planning to operate the boat are trained and licensed to do so. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Requirements to operate a boat vary depending on where you are, but BOATsmart! will be your partner in boating safety education with courses and certifications for everyone involved. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You\u2019ve done it! You\u2019re officially a first-time boat owner, and it\u2019ll be one of the best things that\u2019s happened to you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n After buying a boat for the first time, go out on the water, have fun, and stay safe. At BOATsmart!, we\u2019re here to ensure that you\u2019re properly licensed and to answer any questions you have about life on the water with your first family boat. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you’re buying a boat in Canada, take our Canada-approved course<\/a> and get your license. For boating with your family in the U.S., choose the course for your state<\/a> and start learning. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Then, happy boating!<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Originally published August 4, 2020. Content most recently reviewed and updated August 9, 2024. <\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" From your water activities to your cruising specialties, here is a list of things you should consider when buying your first family boat.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10,"featured_media":126345,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[701],"tags":[921,753,754,923,922],"yoast_head":"\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nStep Four: Have Fun!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n