How To Get Into Boating - Part 2 : Owning & Running A Boat

You’ve bought a boat - now what? The second part of our series on getting into boating focuses on running and maintaining your boat

- Jack Haines

Having delved into how to buy a new boat last month, this time we’re going to look at what you need to think about when it comes to running and maintaining one. Buying the boat is only half the job, where it will be kept and how to look after it are equally important and it’s good to have an idea of the costs incurred so there are no surprises. Some planning will make the transition into boat ownership much smoother and ensure you’re ready to hit the water and have fun on your new pride and joy. Let’s jump in.

Where do I keep it?

There are a few options available depending on the boat’s length and how you intend to use it. If the boat is relatively small and you have the space at home you can keep it on a trailer. This is the most cost-effective way to store a boat but you need to be certain that you will be able to launch it easily when you want to use it and that there will be adequate parking for your car and trailer while you’re out on the water. Having the boat at home on the drive or in the garage is very useful for security, care and maintenance but it will take up lots of space and you will need to ensure your vehicle is certified to tow the weight of the boat and trailer. Being able to trail your boat to locations around the UK and Europe is a definite perk but it’s worth ensuring launch, recovery and storage of the trailer will be easy when you get to your destination.