Living here in beautiful Lake Geneva, we are privy to some of the most scenic bodies of water in the state. Many of our clients already own boats; others are in the market for the first time. Whether you are planning to upgrade your watercraft this year or buy your first one, a boat show is a great place to educate yourself, view the latest industry innovations, and browse a vast selection from many different manufacturers and dealers. Continue reading to find out what steps you should take to assure you make the right choices when it comes to your investment.
Choose Your Boat Type
If you haven’t already chosen a boat, take time to research the various types you may encounter before visiting the boat show. With some foundational knowledge about each type of watercraft, you can ask better questions of the dealers and manufacturers, and you might even be able to decide on the spot.
Since you are likely to be using your boat primarily on freshwater here in Wisconsin, you might start your search by exploring:
- Bass boats (for fishing)
- Ski boats (for skiing)
- Bowriders
- Deck Boats
- Pontoons
- Sailboats and Catamarans
- Personal Watercraft (PWC)
Choose Your Boat Size
How many people do you need to fit on your boat? If you plan to entertain a lot, consider opting for a larger boat. If you only need a few passengers, there may be some benefits to opting for a smaller watercraft. Not only are smaller boats easier to learn to navigate, but they are also easier to store and transport. You’ll also be doing your part to protect the environment since smaller boats consume less fuel.
New vs. Used
Most people know that boats are a depreciating asset. That’s why many opt to purchase used instead of new. While this could be a smart financial decision, it could just as easily be a bad one. That’s because used boats are at higher risk of needing expensive repairs and upgrades. If you had customized a new boat for yourself instead, it would probably be covered under a warranty that would pay for those expenses instead.
Research Dealers
Don’t settle for a great deal from just any dealer. Do your research before entering into a purchase agreement, and you might discover what seems like a great deal is not. For example, some vendors travel from afar to rent space at a boat show. Find out where a dealer is from, and what past customers have to say in reviews. Keep in mind that some dealers offer on-water servicing and other benefits, but will you be able to take advantage of those services if you aren’t even in the same state?
Protect Your Investment with Insurance
At Glass Insurance Center, we are constantly looking out for your best interests when it comes to your assets. When you invest in a boat, you are also assuming the new risk. A boat insurance policy goes above and beyond the extremely limited watercraft coverage offered by your homeowners policy. With boat insurance, you can protect yourself against bodily injury and property damage liability out on the water, as well as protect your boat, special equipment, and personal property against unexpected damages and loss.
For more information about how we can help you find the right boat insurance to fit your family’s unique needs, contact our office today.
