There is always a first time. And buying your first boat will be one of those very intense experiences. Because of the emotions, in the sharing... also because in the purchase of a boat there is also a submerged part. We share the 7 questions to ask yourself before you buy your first boat.
Do I need a boat license to navigate?
In Spain there are different boat licenses depending on the length of the boat. For recreational boats of less than 15 meters you will only need to have the Recreational Boat Pattern (PER). This license allows sailing up to 12 miles from the coast. For yachts less than 24 meters, you will need to pass the Yacht Skipper. This allows you to cruise up to 150 miles.
A boat license in France is compulsory for all motorized pleasure boats over 6 hp.
Buying a boat yes, but new or second-hand?
It depends on your apprehension and your budget. Both options represent great advantages. Buying a new boat means being covered by the manufacturer's warranty. Also, buying a new ship allows you to customize your unit. And this is a luxury. On the other hand, buying a second-hand boat means benefiting from a more affordable price. In the Mediterranean there is a good supply of second-hand boats. Surrounding yourself with a trusted professional is essential.
What are the additional costs to the purchase price?
When evaluating the purchase of your boat, it is essential to include the additional costs of the purchase. To segment these costs and see them more clearly, we can distinguish two categories of costs: those related to the sale and the additional ones.
Related costs include expertise, flagging. Most of these costs are paid once, at the time of sale. Then there are the additional costs that are usually repeated annually: mooring, maintenance, insurance. These additional costs are said to represent 10% of the selling price.
How much does a boat cost per year?
One of the most important questions. A boat does not cost its purchase price. It costs more, and every year there will be something to do. These are the famous additional costs. We just talked about it earlier. Those that represent 10% of the purchase price.
Where to moor my boat?
The great question. It all depends on where you live and if you want to go there regularly. Depending on the base port, it will be more or less easy. In Empuriabrava and its surroundings we find great opportunities. Do not hesitate to knock on the door of professionals. In France, finding a mooring is a bit like looking for a needle in a haystack.
What type of navigation suits me?
You will not buy an open cruiser if you are looking to cruise in winter. Just as you will not buy a unit with 4 berths if you have a large family and want to go out to sea for a few days. There are various types of boats. We made a blog to differentiate them. Click here to (re)read it. One or the other will suit you better. Ask the right questions. We are here for this.
Which transmission system to choose?
There are mainly 4 types of transmission in pleasure boats: drives, IPS, Harmesson and shafts. Each of them has its own characteristics and advantages. Again, all you have to do is ask yourself the right questions.
We are here to accompany you. We will be happy to talk about your marine project, without any commitment.
