BOATERS BLOG
I Want to Buy a Boat…Now What?
By NBOA • April 8, 2026
Owning a boat is one of the biggest joys life has to offer. While your car can take you on explorations and adventures on land, your boat will be able to take you to some uncharted territories and make it possible for you to feel the salty air, sun on your skin, and wind through your hair while you cruise through the water. Boats can be a lot of fun for not only you but your whole family, friends, and even your fur babies, who love spending time with you. So, now that you have decided you want to buy a boat, what’s next? The experts here at the National Boat Owners Association, or NBOA, are here to walk you through the steps of purchasing your watercraft.
What To Do When Purchasing a Boat
How to Know Which Boat Is Best to Buy
The first step to buying a boat is choosing the type of watercraft best suited to your desires, hobbies, and needs. For instance, if you plan to fish in rivers and lakes, a small fishing boat is likely your best option. However, if you like fishing and boating in the Gulf or the Ocean, a larger motorboat is a better choice. If spending a few days traveling on the water sounds appealing to you, you may want to explore buying a yacht or a houseboat. Finally, if you love watersports like wakeboarding, water skiing, or just feeling the wind rush through your hair, then a fast powerboat could be right up your alley. Take the time to research the many types of boats and watercraft available before making a quick decision or an impulsive purchase.
Tips for Financing a Boat
Once you have decided on which boat you want to buy and have found quality options, whether a pre-owned boat or a new watercraft from a reputable boat manufacturer, chances are you will need some sort of marine financing. There are a few steps to take when financing your boat, like getting pre-approval for a boat loan. Don’t worry! At NBOA, our team of experts will guide you through each step and ensure you receive the best deal possible at a reasonable rate. We can set you up with competitive rates and terms based on the type of boat, provide you with a one-stop shop for all your boating needs, and offer exclusive NBOA member benefits.
How to Secure Proper Boat Insurance
The next item on your list should be securing boat insurance that keeps you and your boat protected. While hunting for quality boat insurance at a reasonable rate may seem like a complex or stressful task, NBOA is here to debunk that myth. In reality, working with us to find an insurance provider and agent that you can depend on without paying them an arm and a leg is simple! All you need to do is begin with a quote. Since NBOA is an insurance broker, we streamline the process of collecting information from insurance companies and vetting the list to ones that match your budget, lifestyle, and needs. Comparison shopping for insurance is easy, and connecting with a reliable agent will give you peace of mind as you enjoy sailing on your new boat.
Understanding Boat Safety Laws
Before legally operating a boat or watercraft, depending on your state laws, you may need to obtain a boating license or take a marine safety course. Many boating safety courses will review basic rules and regulations, such as the speed limits on the water, boating under the influence of alcohol, being out on the water during a storm or inclement weather, ensuring each passenger on board is equipped with a proper life jacket, and boating with a furry four-legged companion, to name a few. Following these safety measures will decrease your chances of getting into a boating accident, putting yourself, passengers, and others on the water in harm’s way, and needing to call your marine insurance company.
Tips for Taking Care of a Boat
After you have purchased your new boat, secured marine financing, connected with a reputable boat insurance company, and reviewed all your safety materials, it is time to set sail. While you enjoy your boat and the excitement, thrills, and serenity it has to offer, keep in mind that this is not the end of the road. Every boat requires regular care and maintenance, whether you plan to winterize it or enjoy it year-round. Be sure to routinely inspect accessible fire extinguishers, the condition of grab rails, the fuel system, as it should be adequately grounded and free of rust or contamination, electrical wires, systems, and connections, steering cables, engine controls, mounts, and other technology in the gear console, anchors, batteries, and bilge pumps. Docking or storing your watercraft should also be done with care and consideration to ensure the longest possible lifespan for your boat.
With all the guidance, tools, and expert advice right here at your fingertips, we hope you feel confident and ready to move through your to-do list for purchasing your boat. During this exciting time, your friends here at NBOA look forward to providing you with additional advice and quotes as you journey toward becoming a boat owner. Happy sailing!