Author: tonynikolovski

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Boat Storage Options for you to Choose

Yachts in storage

Where do you keep your boat? This concern often bothers a boat owner. Proper maintenance and safe upkeep of your precious possession is essential to ensure your peace of mind. You have to consider the cost and convenience too.

Before you make a decision about boat storage, find out your options.

Put it on a trailer and store it in the backyard. This is perhaps the cheapest, and the most convenient option. You just need to invest in a trailer that’s appropriate for your boat size and shape, and stow it away when not in use.

But there’s a downside to it too. While it can be a convenient option if you live near the water body, it will be much of a hassle to tow it through a great distance. And not all have the space to store their boat in their home.

Another problem is the effects of outside elements on the boat. Unless you keep it under a good protective cover, rain, wind, hail, snow and such other hazards will wreck havoc on your loved watercraft.

Find a dry rack storage facility. An enclosed and sheltered place with racks to store away boats can be perfect if you have a small boat. Your watercraft is placed in a cradle and kept under strict surveillance.

Once you have used your boat, just leave it to the staff at the facility to put it at the right place with a forklift or some similar machinery. And when you plan to use it, just notify them in advance, and they will get down your boat from the rack.

But again, there’s a drawback to the arrangement. While it’s a good option for a small boat, it may not be feasible for a large cabin cruiser or a houseboat. And if you use your boat frequently, it will be too cumbersome.

Rent a slip at a boat marina. A wet storage facility, available at a marina, may be good to keep your large vessels. And it will be great for smaller boats too, especially if the chief cause of concern is convenience.

You just need to load your gear, take your passengers, cast off the lines and cruise away. There’s no need to trail it to the water body. And when you come back, just get down, and let the staff handle the rest.

The only problem with renting a slip at a marina is the cost. It depends on the boat’s length and the time for which you keep it there. While it ensures protection of your watercraft and ease of use for you, it doesn’t come cheap.

Buy a berth for your boat to make it an asset for life. This can be an ideal solution if you want to get rid of the ongoing costs of renting a berth at a marina and avoid the hassle. And it has its host of advantages too.

It isn’t cheap. But it’s available for you whenever you need to store your boat. And most marinas offer additional facilities such as electricity, water, telephone, TV, Internet connectivity, and so on for berth-owners.

You have to consider the expense though. If you have already invested much to fit your boat, this cost may seem to be an extra. But if you consider carefully, it’s a good investment for a boat owner. It will be of use for the lifetime of your boat.

And it makes it possible to participate in socialising activities with other owners too.

For a first time owner, a boat is a prized possession. And this love prompts them to find a proper place to store their watercrafts. Consider the choices available in your area. Determine your requirements. Make the decision about which one fits best.

And before you take out your boat for a ride from the storage facility, make sure you have your updated licence. If it hasn’t been renewed, it’s time to do it now. And if you don’t have it yet, it’s time to complete the NSW boat licence course now.

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7 Reasons to Complete your Boat Licence Course with Us

You need a licence to drive your boat at more than 10 knots. You need a PWC licence, along with the general licence, if you want to drive a powered watercraft. And we can help you complete the right course, pass the test, and get them both.

Why choose us? Let’s take a look at the reasons that make us a good choice.

Reasons1: We offer a Host of courses

 Yes, you can just take the NSW Boat Licence Course. Or, perhaps the PWC Licence Course after it. But that’s not all we have to offer. Several courses are available for individuals interested in learning new things.

If you are looking for a career opportunity in the maritime industry, our General Purpose Hand (Deckhand) Course may suit you perfectly. But if you are interested in learning about marine radios, the Marine Radio Licence Course may be more appropriate.

Reasons2: We combine theoretical and practical elements

If you think that you can easily memorise the question-answer portion of the test, and get your licence, you are a little mistaken. You need to have practical boating experience too.

Our aim is to offer ample theoretical knowledge as well as adequate firsthand experience to new learners. This makes it easy for them to pass the written test, comply with the practical boating experience requirements and be a safe boater.

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Reason 3: We have knowlegeable and experienced trainers

 Meet our trainers, check out their wealth of knowledge and experience and understand why they are some of the best instructors available in this field.

Be it Paul Marrum’s expertise in sports fishing, Steve Louks’ proficiency in boating, Peter Smith’s Navy experience, or Tony Reynolds’ sailing acumen, each member of our team offers the best guidance.

Reason 4: We consider your location preferences.

Presently, we offer courses at five locations:

  • Suite 6, d’Albora Marina, Cabarita
  • St George Motor Boat Club, Sans Souci
  • Middle Harbour Yacht Club, The Spit Mosman
  • Lynne Park Ferry Wharf, Rose Bay
  • Dickson Tradies Union Club, Canberra

If these locations don’t seem suitable, just give us a call. And we will come to you!

Reason 5: We value your time.

The courses run from about 9.00 a.m. to 3.30 p.m. at all Sydney centres. The theoretical part of the courses at Canberra runs on Thursday evenings and the practical part runs on Saturdays.

But don’t fret if our course schedule doesn’t suit your routine. We understand the pressures of modern life. Just consult us, and we will arrange for classes on your preferred day, time, and even in the weekend.

Reason 6: We ensure value for money.

 What happens if you cannot pass the test? Simple; nothing! With us, you don’t need to pay us again if you don’t qualify the test the first time. Our students can take the exam twice a day, until they pass.

What happens if you aren’t proficient in English? Well, we will just get you an interpreter. What if you have language, learning and numeracy difficulties? Well, our trainers will guide you through with patience and care.

Reason 7: We make learning fun.

 Learning to drive a boat, or a PWC, isn’t all about the rules and regulations alone. It’s about the fun, the thrill, the excitement. Being too much engrossed by the learning part takes out the fun.

We, at Maritime Training School, understand that you want to get your boat drivers licence to enjoy a ride on your boat. And that’s why we strive to make the learning experience an enjoyable one.

Getting your licence isn’t a challenge when you have us with you.

Before you decide to take your loved watercraft out on the open waters, complete the boating safety course, and get your licence. It will help you learn what you need to know, and will also help you gain an insight into how to drive your boat.

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Maritime Radio Course

The next Marine Radio course is scheduled for 5pm on 18th July. We encourage all to attend this course and even recommend it! And if you are a Maritime Training School student, you can claim a $25 discount on your Marine Radio licence just by calling us! Pick up the phone now and ensure your place.

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Our Fight with RMS

We are currently asking students to support in our fight with RMS to prevent some of the changes they are proposing. If these changes are passed, we believe that the safety of boaters on all waters, but especially Sydney Harbour, will be severely compromised. This Government must be told that safety on the water is paramount and some of its proposed changes to reduce ‘red tape’ will result in significant threats to our safety. The proposed changes that we are most concerned about include:

  • Making the boating safety course optional (not compulsory) and only available online
  • All assessment would be done at the RMS (formerly RTA) office/one stop shop by unqualified staff
  • The logbook system would not be changed – so the rorting would continue!

    Importantly, the upshot of these changes makes it highly probably that the one day training courses we currently provide will become a relic of the past – and this is all being done at a time when our waterways are getting busier and busier. And, of course, as our summers get longer and hotter, we know that we can expect even more people on the water. So, we need your help. The Government has released a Discussion Paper for public comment. We ask that you take the time to follow the link (< http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/mmc/review-nsw-boat-driver-licensing” rel=”nofollow”>http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/mmc/review-nsw-boat-driver-licensing) and please add your voice to support all the training that is currently being delivered by private training organisations such as Maritime Training School. Submissions close on 19 December 2014. Submission can be made to maritime@transport.nsw.gov.au. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me anytime on 02 9736 3655. We all want reductions in ‘red tape’ but not at the expense of safety. Thank you for your support.

    Kind regards, Chris Lowe CEO.

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Boat Classification: How to Determine which Boat you Need

Recreational boating is one of the favourite pastimes for many; whether you want to go on a solo adventure, a fun fishing trip with your family, or a leisurely luxury cruise with your business partners, you need to have the right watercraft for the ride. A gleaming vessel of your own is sure to be your greatest possession!

Before you make a purchase, you need to have a good idea about what you want from your boat. Only when you have a clear conception that the boat you select will serve its purpose, you can make an informed decision.

Let’s try to classify boats as per the activities they are suited for.

For Adventure:

 The first one that comes to mind is the personal watercraft (PWC); equipped with planing hulls, these are designed for those who love the idea of some thrill on the waters, be it tubing or waterskiing. Ideal for solo travellers, the PWC is also available in designs that can accommodate up to 3 individuals.

Bowriders are good if you want to go on a swimming adventure. With a platform at the stern, it is easy to get in the water or put on your skis. Or, you can just enjoy the breeze in the spacious bow area as well.

Another great choice for skiers and wakeboarders is a sturdy boat with a powerful engine to tow one or more individuals. But while they look similar, ski and wakeboard boats have different placement of the engine, propeller, and hull. This is to ensure that skiers have a slight wake while wakeboarders have giant wake to perform their best.

With a sporty chic look, the deck boat can also be a viable option for adventurers. Be it stern drive or single side console with an outboard engine, the ample space and stable platform make it a good choice for your waterskiing, wakeboarding, or tubing activities.

 

For Cruise:

When just a leisurely and comfortable cruise is what you want, a cabin cruiser is all you need. With sleeping and cooking areas and a bathroom, this is a good vessel for a nice journey, especially in choppy waters.

Whether you want to take your family island hopping around Sydney Harbour for a few days or entertain clients on a weeklong trip in ultimate luxury, the yacht is your ideal choice. Fitted with sleeping arrangements, air conditioning, and plumbing, the single or double-engine motor yachts are suitable for overnight cruises.

Trawlers are good for long cruises, as their displacement hull uses less horsepower and cuts down on fuel consumption. With ample space for a comfortable journey, this is the right watercraft for a great holiday.

For Fishing:

Low and sleek construction, outboard engines, livewells to keep the catch alive, electric motor on bow, and a V-shaped hull – every feature of bass boats is just right for the anglers out on the waters. But if you want to fish in shallow freshwater areas, a lightweight aluminium boat may be a better choice.

To fish in rough waters, it is best to opt for a centre console boat. As the name suggests, the control centre of the vessel is in the middle of it. With a single deck and ample space for fishing gear, you can go on an adventure in pursuit of sportfish on ocean waters on it.

When you are an ardent enthusiast of fishing and plan to go on extended expeditions in search of big ones, you need a gameboat. Constructed from fibreglass and fitted with powerful engines, these are made to find, hook, and catch big fish such as tuna, marlin, and so on. You can live in comfort onboard as well.

For Sailing:

The point of distinction between sailboats and powered boats is that the former uses wind as its driving force partially or completely, unlike the latter. Often equipped with an engine, the primary source of propulsion of these vessels is a natural force – the wind.

A sailboat can vary widely in style and have distinct characteristics. It may be a small dinghy powered solely by wind or a large motorsailer partially run by an inboard engine. The classification of these watercrafts depend on a number of factors that include size, configuration of hull, type of keel, number of sails, use, as well as purpose.

 

For All-round Enjoyment: If you want an all-purpose watercraft that you can use for fishing, cruising, enjoying water sports, or just boating, the cuddy cabin is what you are looking for. Simple to manoeuvre, these have a closed deck that has ample space for sleeping, cooking, and a toilet, making it good for a family outing.

Pontoon boats don’t look much; but they can be great for a leisure cruise, and the sturdier ones can also give you the thrill of waterskiing. Floating on large tube-like pontoons, these watercrafts are well-loved for their stability and comfort.

When you want to take your family on a relaxed fishing adventure, the right vessel for you is the walkaround. With a full-length deck, steps to the front deck, and rod holders and livewells, it is the ultimate match for your excursion. The cabin, fitted with sleeping berths, cooking area, and a toilet, offers cosy accommodation while you are out on the waters.

 

It is easy to be confused about which boat to buy; you must know what you want from it.

If you plan to use it on your own, you can make the decision alone. But if you want to take your family out on a boating trip, it is best to consult them before you determine which vessel to buy. Involving them in the decision is sure to add to their enthusiasm about the boating expeditions you plan in the future.

Don’t buy the first boat you see. Take note of its features, capacity, make, warranties, and price. Even if it fits your tastes and preferences, it is best to look at a few options before you make any decision. This will ensure that you are satisfied with your choice.

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Life Jackets: Essential Boating Safety Equipment

Life jackets, or Personal Floatation Device (PFD), is an essential boating safety equipment for every recreational boater in NSW. Whether you are on a bow rider in the enclosed waters of a lake or on a centre console boat on the coastal waters, you need to carry life jackets for each individual on board. And use them at the right time and in the proper manner.

When you are planning the checklist of what to take, the first item to enlist is the PFD. Be it a single day fishing trip with your friends or a week long cruise with your family, you need to make sure that the life jackets are on board.

Life Jackets – The Basics

Before you start on your recreational boating trip, learn the basics of the life jacket.

Why wear it? The reason is simple; to ensure your safety on a boat trip. PFDs ensure that the boaters who wear them don’t drown if the boat capsizes for some reason or they are thrown overboard. You can never be sure when an accident may occur, so it is best to be prepared for it. To do this, you need to wear life jackets as and when necessary.

As these display high-visibility colours, it becomes easier for the rescue work to be conducted, in case disaster strikes. You may think that nothing would happen to me; but there are no such guarantees.

Another important point to consider is that you may have to face penalties if you don’t abide by the rules applicable with regard to life jackets. If there are no or not enough life jackets on board or the individuals on board are not wearing them when required, the owner or master of the vessel may be penalised for the fault.

Note: The life jacket is to save your life; but it cannot do its duty if you do not wear it.

What to wear? There are three categories of life jackets available for the purpose:

Level 100+ Life Jacket

The Level 100+ Life Jacket provides the highest buoyancy levels, these ensure that the wearer’s head remains face-up above the water level even if they become unconscious. With the high visibility colours, these life jackets come in two sub-categories:

Inflatable Life Jackets

Inflatable life jackets are lightweight and comfortable, these depend on CO2 for their buoyancy. They need no manual operation, as they inflate when they come in contact with water. However, the wearer must be briefed about their operations as well as the additional maintenance requirements necessary for these PFDs.

Non Inflatable Life Jackets

Non-inflatable life jackets are bigger and bulkier than their inflatable counterparts, these lifejackets depend on foam buoyancy for support. They don’t require the operation and servicing either and therefore are easier to keep. However, they are not quite as comfortable to wear as the former PFDs.

Level 50 Life Jackets

The Level 50 Life Jackets are buoyancy vests designed for comfort, these life jackets do not feature the neck support. Made from high visibility coloured materials, these are mostly used in enclosed waters where the boats remain protected by natural features.

Level 50S Life Jackets

For style and comfort, the ideal choice is this level 50S Life Jacket PFD type. These buoyancy vests have similar buoyancy levels as the level 50 life jackets; however, they are only suitable for water sports such as water skiing and wake boarding.

When to wear it? Unless specified as necessary to wear, you must carry the level 100+ life jackets for everyone on board when you go out on the open waters. In enclosed or alpine waters, you must carry Level 100+ Life Jackets, Level 50 Life Jackets, or Level 50S Life Jackets for everyone on board, unless it is specified that they need to wear it.

Life Jacket Rules

Specific rules apply to when and which life jacket type must be worn. It depends on the water conditions, the type of vessel, the age of the wearer, and the activity indulged in. Find out the details before you go on your recreational boating trip.

When storing life jackets, make sure they are visible and accessible to everyone on board. If they aren’t, make sure the place of storage is clearly marked out (free stickers with red letters spelling out LIFE JACKETS on white background are available from the Roads and Maritime Offices).

Heightened risk situations make it necessary for everyone on board a recreational vessel to wear their lifejackets. This includes times when weather conditions turn bad, when there is a defect in the vessel, or in other such circumstances.

Next, you need to focus on the key points to ensure that the lifejackets are good to use.

Life Jacket Fitting

Life jacket fitting: Keep in mind that the life jacket must be comfy to wear and a proper fit. Otherwise, it would not be able to provide the necessary support to the wearer. Whether you choose a jacket or a vest style, focus on the comfort. If it isn’t right, it would be no good. Looks are the last thing you think about when it comes to PFDs.

Life Jacket Maintenance

Life jacket maintenance: When not in use, the life jackets must be stored in a proper place so as to keep them in good shape. If your PFD has not been in use for quite a while, make sure you check every component before you take it on your boating trip. Replace any worn out or damaged part as soon as you notice.

Life Jacket Servicing

Life jacket servicing: Inflatable life jackets need to be serviced at regular intervals (most manufacturers require it to be done annually). There are two ways in which this is done; for some manufacturers, you may do the servicing on your own if you follow their instructions properly; for others, you need to go to them or their authorised agent to service it.

If you are not sure how to do it, it is best to take them to the professionals for servicing.

Also, for inflatable life jackets, you need to replace the CO2 cylinder and auto components once it has been inflated. While these are available at the manufacturers and dealers, it is best to have spares with you. If the PFD is accidentally inflated on your boat trip, you would have no other option to replace the parts immediately.

Don’t forget your lifejacket on a recreational boating trip; it may turn out to be your lifeline.

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Tips for Finding the Best Boats for Freshwater Fishing

What is the best part of boating? Opinions often differ on this. But one activity that many boating enthusiasts enjoy is fishing. If you aren’t prepared to go out in the open ocean to fish, opt for a little trip to the freshwater areas instead.

Why do you need a boat? Why can’t you do it from the shore? The reason is simple; being on the water gives you better mobility than being on the shore. Moreover, it also makes it easier to avoid the crowd that gathers on the shore.

But before you plan your trip to the inland rivers, lakes or streams to fish, you need to find the right boat for it. The question is – how do you make a choice? It is easy to get confused; and a little advice and assistance is always a good thing.

Let’s try to help you find the right type of boat for your freshwater fishing trip.

Is it just for you or a group of anglers?

When you are starting out, a smaller watercraft can be a better option. Small aluminium dinghies are ideal. They are easy to manoeuvre, lightweight to carry and tow, and offer access to narrow water bodies.

But such a vessel won’t do if you plan to take your family out on a relaxing freshwater fishing trip or your friends on a bass fishing tournaments, you need bigger boats designed specifically for the purpose – an inboard cruiser or a bass boat.

Do you plan to store it in your garage or book a marina for it?

This is one oft-forgotten point. If you don’t want to add to the expenses, it is a better idea to choose a smaller flat boat, ideal for shallow waters. You can store it in your shed or garage.

This won’t be the right fit if you plan to buy a big boat for your weekend fishing trips. A deck boat with a fishing platform can hardly fit into a garage! For this, you need to book a marina to keep it. But remember, this may add to the expenses.

How much do you intend to spend?

The price of the freshwater fishing vessel depends on its size, type, capacity, power and features. Whether it’s a new boat or a used one also affects the price. And the price alone isn’t the only investment.

You have to consider the taxes, insurance, and storage facility costs. You also have to fit the boat with the features and amenities you need. And you may need to give it a fresh coat of paint or decorate it with your favourite adornments.

Which power option is suitable for a freshwater fishing boat?

Small outboard engines are good for the simple no frills boats you take to navigate the streams and creeks. To make lure casting work, opt for a vessel powered by electric outboard motor.

Such a motor is also suitable for trolling, an effective way to catch the trout. And it also gives you the best opportunity to control your boat with only a push of a button. Some even have an autopilot feature, so you can sit back while you fish.

What kind of storage do you need in the boat?

An inflatable watercraft can be right for a novice. But it doesn’t offer much dry storage. In such a circumstance, it is best to buy a couple of dry bags to keep your valuables, electronics and other essentials.

When you select a medium-sized bowrider or a large-sized pontoon boat for your freshwater fishing excursions, you need not fret about storage. It offers ample space to store your fishing rods and other supplies.

Now that you have an idea about which boat works for your trip, you are ready for it.

But before you go out, you need to have a good idea about the sweet water fish species in the Australian waters. Opportunities abound; the wild bass in the coastal streams, the trout in the southern water bodies, and the cod in the Murray-Darling basin.

Why is freshwater fishing a good idea? Australian inland water bodies are replete with native and introduced species. Restocking efforts have resulted in large numbers of perch, cod, bass, trout, and so on in the waters.

The best part is that you can use a variety of techniques to catch fish in the sweet waters of Australia. Whether you are apt at bait, fly or lure fishing, you can use any of them to participate and enjoy this activity.

And before you go fishing, make sure you get your general boating licence.

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Ideal Vessels for Long Cruises

Be it the beautiful Byron Bay, the gorgeous Gold Coast or the wonderful Whitsunday Islands, a sail through the Australian waters can offer some spectacular scenes. A long cruise on your personal vessel can be the ideal way to enjoy the vistas. Which watercrafts are ideal vessels for long cruises? You need to make the right choice.

Cabin Cruisers: Comprising a galley kitchen, sleeping berths and a toilet in the head, these recreational boats come equipped with air conditioning, heating, shore power systems and power generators.

You may choose a stern drive model fitted with a propeller drive mechanism. This is easier to drive but is mostly used in inland waterways. Inboard cruisers, steered with a rudder, are better suited to saltwater journeys. They are usually bigger too.

Cuddy Cabins: Easy to manoeuvre, these boats have a closed deck above the bow; this makes for a snug sleeping area inside for your family. It also accommodates a toilet and sink, and even a little place for some cooking.

A cuddy cabin can accommodate 4-8 individuals. And while you can enjoy a long cruise on it, you can also enjoy other activities such as skiing, wakeboarding or tubing. You can add a swim platform, sun-pad or towline hook with it.

Houseboats: Want to get away on a long cruise with your extended family or your group of friends to your favourite destination? Well, you need a big boat that offers an experience similar to a stay at a lake house.

The spacious interiors and the opportunities to dine, sleep and entertain make it an ideal watercraft if you wish to take many people on board. Unlimited fun guaranteed when you have such a luxurious choice as a houseboat.

Motor Yachts: Whether you are planning to go on an adventure around Australia or welcoming business associates on board, a cruiser can be your perfect pick. Inviting indoor saloons, cosy sleeping berths and plenty of deck space make it a great vessel.

Fitted with air conditioners, electrical generators, and so on, the motor yacht can ensure a pleasant experience for all on board. The swim platforms and dive options give you ample adventures too.

Multi-hull Power Boats: Catamaran cruisers offer you the best advantages, whether you plan to go on a long voyage or decide to make a stopover at your preferred islands. With its large, airy cabin, it can provide ample space for up to 8 passengers.

With powerful twin engines, deep v-hulls, and its overall design, it ensures high speed, easy manoeuvrability and excellent stability. If you enjoy water activities with your family, this is the right boat for you.

Sport-fishing Boats: When your long cruise is just to catch the big fish out on the open waters, this is the right choice for you. Find, hook and land the fish – the boat’s design makes all of it as easy as possible for an angler.

But don’t think that these vessels are only suited for saltwater fishing enthusiasts. With sleeping quarters, a galley kitchen and a toilet, it is great even if you have taken non-anglers with you on the boating trip.

Trawlers: Wish for a nice sail but don’t want to bother about the sails and halyards? Well, the simple solution to your trouble is to opt for a trawler. It’s also fitted with every amenity you need for a long cruise.

The specific hull design and configuration of the trawlers make them good to move easily through the waters. Also, these vessels use minimum horsepower and consume less fuel, and thus make them ideal for long journeys.

Sailboats: These watercrafts use the power of wind, partially or entirely, to propel forward. The sails transform the wind power into power that moves the boat. In this regard they differ from the other vessels on this list.

If you plan to buy a sailboat for an overnight cruise, make sure you find one that suits your purpose, and is equipped to accommodate the right number of passengers. Also, focus on the size, keel type, hull configuration, number of sails, and use.

Before you buy a boat, make sure you complete boat licence course NSW.

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Your First Bass Boat: How to Make the Right Choice

Bass fishing is a favourite pastime of many. If you have done it a few times from the bank, you are sure to know why. Want to indulge in it a little more? Just buy your own bass boat, get your boat licence and you are set for a fishing experience like never before.

But before you make the purchase decision, it’s important to be aware of what you want. And how to find the boat that matches your purpose and preference. How do you do it? Well, here’s a little update on a few things you need to know to buy the right bass boat.

Bass Boat Purchase Considerations

With the number of makes and models available, finding the right boat can be a lot confusing. It’s imperative to focus on the points that affect your fishing experience. Let’s try to learn a little more.

Weight – Check the dry hull weight from the rig’s specification sheet. Don’t opt for the too heavy options. But don’t go for the lightweight variants either. It won’t run well, especially when the waters choppy.

Beam – Choose a wide-beamed boat; it will be more stable whether it’s running or anchored for fishing. It will also be better balanced. And there will be loads of space inside for you, your buddies and your gear.

Material – Fibreglass is the preferred option when it comes to bass boats. But remember, it can be expensive. If the fibreglass vessels don’t fit your budget, don’t fret. Opt for an aluminium hull instead.

Construction – It’s best to opt for a boat made from hand-laid material. But again, it will be the costlier option. If it doesn’t suit, you can choose a boat made with the use of choppergun to spray chopped bits of resin and glass in the mould.

Trolling motor – Apart from the regular outboard, make sure your boat has this feature to ensure easy manoeuvre to stop at the right fishing spot. If you want to quietly sneak up on the fish, you cannot do it without this motor.

Fuel capacity – It depends on the length of the boat and the engine power. Make sure the fuel tank is adequate for the type of trip you plan. A 20 foot boat with a 200 hp engine will need about 50 gallon of fuel.

Additional features – When you are planning to go bass fishing, you cannot ignore features such as swivel seats, live wells and tackle boxes. Also, it’s better to choose a boat equipped with GPS and fish finders.

Bass Boat – How Much Should  You Spend?

Well, you get what you pay for. While some bass boats will fascinate you, some won’t. Just keep in mind – you need to stay within your budget. And the price tag isn’t the only cost you have to bear.

Once you choose a boat, you have to pay taxes, fitting, storage, maintenance, and many such things. And there is always the question of cleaning out your boat after every fishing trip and handling small repairs.

Another thing to keep in mind is the cost of the NSW boat licence course you have to take before you can take out your boat on the open waters. The course teaches you the basics of recreational boating and maintaining safety guidelines

Where Do You Buy A Bass Boat?

This is perhaps one of the most mind-boggling questions you face. It’s best to visit a boat show before you make the purchase decision. While you can compare shop from the dealers in your area, it won’t give you a glimpse of every option.

But when you visit a boat show, you are sure to catch every one of the best bass boats from all manufacturers and dealers. This broadens your choice. Don’t make a decision on your first visit. Choose a few options on display and get their specifications and prices.

Once you are at home, compare these details. Talk it over with another angler who owns their own boat. Ample research can help you find the boat of your dreams; and that too within the budget you have set for it

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Do you Buy a New Boat or a Used Boat?

Do You Buy a New Boat or a Used Boat? Should you invest in a brand new boat? Or, is a pre-owned vessel good for you? Be it a personal watercraft for your adventures or a motor yacht for your luxury cruise, everyone comes across this question. Don’t worry; you are not alone in this. Every first-time boat buyer faces this dilemma – the age old debate of whether to buy a new or a used boat.

If it was a simple yes or no to either, it would have been much easier. The trouble is that there is no single answer to this question. Before you buy a boat, it is important to determine what you want and what fits your budget.

Here is a look at the advantages of new and used boats to help you make a decision.

Why Buy A New Boat

The first reason is simple – because you would love to have a new boat! A boat is a proud possession for most owners, and they want it to be brand new. From the important points such as hull construction to the aesthetic details such as interior colour palette, a new boat means you can have your choice.

New Vessel, Less Worries

With a new vessel, you need not worry about what it went through in the past, whether there is a glitch that you overlook, or how much maintenance it would really need in the future. It is dream transformed into reality – minus any worry.

Manufacturer’s Warranty

Secondly, there is manufacturer’s warranty available for every part, be it the body or the engine. Even if there is a problem somewhere, any repair or replacement is covered. Keep in mind, these warranties are usually served by the dealer who sold you the boat; so, it is best to buy from someplace close by.

Often, warranty is what draws many buyers to choose in favour of new boats. The vessel may have a faulty part or may break down due to some reason; but the warranty makes it possible to avoid any associated problems, and ensures your peace of mind.

New Boat, Your Choice

Thirdly, for an owner, a new boat is similar to any new possession. When you opt for this, you can dictate every little detail that matters. Size, configuration, features, gear, accessories, colours, and all other things are fitted as per your tastes and preferences. No need to stick to someone else’s choice.

You can make a new boat truly your own with the way you decide to deck it up with the latest technology and gadgets. You can determine even the smallest detail, what colour the rug will be in your cuddy cabin or what artwork will look good on your cruiser.

Why Buy A Used Boat

Cost is often the chief reason people opt for this. It is easy to understand it once you take a look at the difference. A 5 year pre-owned boat may be available at a greatly reduced price than a new one with the same size, capacity, and construction. Price is often what lures first-time buyers to consider a used boat.

Good For Recreational Boating

When you are on the lookout for a watercraft that will do well on the waters but are concerned about the budget, a used one may be the right option for you. Again, if you are starting out on recreational boating, a used vessel may be a good idea too.

Rate Of Depreciation

Secondly, the major part of depreciation is over for most used boats. The value of a new boat depreciates greatly in the first couple of years. After this, the rate of depreciation stays around 3-4% through the next 10 years. Of course, this depends on the make, model, and market conditions; but this is what happens in most cases.

If you plan to upgrade in the near future, it may be difficult to get the value on a new boat. But this isn’t the case for old boats. Once they have crossed the first year, the depreciation rate doesn’t escalate much; you can recover much of the investment if you decide to sell.

Pre-Owned Boat Passed The Test Of Time

Thirdly, a pre-owned boat has been out on the waters and seen good and bad days. It may not be fitted with the latest fancy equipment but it has a reliable setup that can be of use to you. The first kinks have been identified and handled and now you can make use of the time-tested gear that the boat comes with.

It is also a good thing to know that you are not the one responsible for the first scratch or dent on the boat. If comfort and budget are your foremost concerns, a used boat is the right choice for you.

Once you have made a decision, exercise caution when you buy your first boat.

If you decide to buy a new boat, check out your options. Talk to the dealer; discuss it with your family and friends, especially those who own vessels; check the Internet for further resources; conduct a thorough research about the make and model you wish to buy. Also, compare costs to make sure you get the best deal.

Remember, the price isn’t the only cost when you decide to buy a new boat. You need to fit it up with the equipment and accessories, from the necessities to the fancies. Also, consider insurance, storage, and maintenance costs to calculate the budget.

Consult A Marine Surveyor

If you decide to buy a used boat, you need to go ahead and examine the choices available in the market. Get a marine surveyor to assess the boat for damage; get it out on the waters for a test ride; talk to the seller about its past and the reason it is on sale. Remember, it doesn’t come with warranties; so, you need to be extra careful.

Again, the price of the pre-owned boat isn’t the only cost to consider. Often, these may need to be rigged and refitted to make them suitable for a voyage. Along with this, old boats often need more maintenance than their new counterparts.

At the end, it is your preference that will determine whether to buy a new or a used boat.