Buying Used Vs. Buying New: Boat and PWC Edition

The Ultimate Shopping Tips

You love getting out on the water and you’re tired of renting. It’s time for your own vehicle, but you don’t know how to buy a boat!

Should you get a boat or a personal watercraft (PWC)? Is buying new or used the best option for you? We’ve got all the information you’ll need to make this important decision. Read on!

What’s the Difference Between a Boat and a PWC?

A boat is a vehicle you sit inside and a PWC is something you ride on. Think car vs. motorcycle. A boat can always carry more than 1 passenger and a PWC is a more personalized vehicle, usually made for just 1 person, though some of them can carry up to 3.

Boats have more storage space and sitting room. Although some of them can go very fast, they are more used for leisure activities like swimming or fishing, and for getting from point A to B.

PWCs are better suited to joy-riding and fun.

How To Choose The Right Option For Me?

When choosing a PWC vs a boat, it’s important to first consider what you want to get out of your time on the water.

Do you want to bring lots of friends with you? Go fishing? Do you want to stay dry and have a picnic on the water? If so, then a boat may be your best bet.

If you’re looking for a fun ride on the water alone or with 1 or 2 others, and don’t mind getting wet, then look for a PWC.

Another important consideration is storage space. Do you have room to store a boat? If not, you may need to spend money to rent space. PWCs are smaller and easier to store in a shed or garage.

You should also take location into account. Where do you plan to use your vehicle? Boats are typically better suited for ocean waves. PWCs are great for smaller bodies of water.

Do You Need A License For Each?

Yes. You need a Pleasure Craft Operator Card whether you plan to use a boat or a PWC. The card is obtained by completing a boating safety course and exam. These can be taken online, through a boating safety course provider. After successfully completing the course and exam, boaters will receive a Pleasure Craft Operator Card, which must be kept on board the vessel at all times.

Buying A New Boat Or Personal Watercraft

Whether you want a boat or a PWC for sale, you’ll need to decide whether to buy a new or used one. Each choice has its advantages and disadvantages. New boats, of course, have many benefits.

Tips For Buying New

When buying a new boat or PWC, there are several things to consider.

First, decide how much you want to spend. Both types of vehicles have quite a large price range depending on size, speed and special features. And remember to budget for things like fuel, insurance and storage.

If you want to spread the cost of your purchase out over time, look for a dealer that offers financing.

Next, research dealers. It is better to buy a boat from a dealer located near the waterway you want to boat on. That way, if there are ever any problems with the boat, the dealer's team may be able to offer repairs at the dock. Additionally, if you need a replacement part, you will not have to travel far to get it. At Dunfords, we offer service in Belleville, Peterborough and Kawartha Lakes.

Before buying anything from a dealer, you should ensure that the dealer is reputable. You can do this by searching online or talking to past customers. Dunfords has a trusted reputation for over 40 years in business.

And do your research beforehand on the type of boat or PWC you want. Know what features you’re looking for, and have an idea of what brands you might be interested in.

Pros And Cons Of Buying New

Pros:

New boats and PWCs are worry-free since you know they’re straight from the factory
They come with warranties
They have the latest technology
They are often faster and lighter than older models

Cons:

You pay more for new models
You may not be able to find all the features you want in the current line

Buying a Used Boat or Personal Watercraft

Although used vehicles have been previously owned, they do have a lot going for them. If you know how to buy a used personal watercraft or boat, you can get a great deal.

Tips For Buying Used

When buying a used boat or a used jet ski, it's essential to look for the title and registration. This will give you a record of the boat's ownership. It will also show you if the boat has any liens or encumbrances against it. This is important because you don't want to be responsible for someone else's debt.

Also, check to make sure the boat or PWC is in good condition. There are a number of things that can go wrong.

Hull condition is a critical factor. Take a look at the hull's exterior. Are there any cracks, gouges, or other damage? Even if the damage is cosmetic, it could signify that the hull has been weakened and is more susceptible to further problems.

Next, check for barnacles or other growths on the bottom of the hull. Then look for water stains in the hull’s interior. If you see some, it could indicate that the hull is not watertight and needs to be repaired.

Check the deck for cracks, splits, or other issues. Also, check for any sign of water damage, such as discoloration or warping.

Then take a look at the engine and the battery. The oil and coolant should be filled. The spark plugs and battery should also be in good condition.

Last, but definitely not least, start the engine to make sure it’s running smoothly.

Of course, buying used from a reputable dealer can save you a lot of time and effort.

Pros And Cons Of Buying Used