1. Look at the cost. This is the first thing to consider about a boat. Typically, people buy their 'dream boat' and soon realize how much more it will cost them on a monthly and an annual basis. The rule of thumb is regardless of how old your boat is, you should expect to pay 10-15% of the replacement value per year.

2. Now that you have determined what your budget will allow, determine what you want to do on your boat. Fishing, water sports, sailing, cruising, personal watercraft, or luxury yachting.

3. Decide where you will use your boat. You will also need to figure out if you will primarily be on a lake/river or on the ocean, and subsequently how far out in the ocean you plan on going.

4. You should next figure out how many people will typically ride on your boat, including yourself. Boats under 28 feet have limits to the number of riders, boats over 28 feet typically do not, but many have strict rules if they are coast guard regulated and if you are a licensed captain you will need to follow passenger rules.

5. Consider your boat length. You will need to decide do you want a boat you want to keep in the water or one that you can transport place to place. You will also want to determine the length of the boat you want by the conditions you will use it in. Boat length also determines the number of passengers and conditions you can safely operate the boat in.

6. Decide on your method of propulsion. There are various types of engines and placement of those engines. An outboard is mounted on to the transom of the boat. Outboards are great for fishing and watersports. An inboard engine is usually placed 'inside' the boat either in the center or rear of the boat. Most cruisers and yachts have inboards. A stern drive engine is mounted directly to the transom of the boat.

7. Choose between new and used. Once you have determined you are comfortable with the cost, type, size, propulsion, etc. of the boat, you will now need to decide if you want a new or used vessel. The professionals at Nautical Ventures are experts in helping evaluate what’s the perfect boat for you and your family. They have years of experience and years of happy customers because their salespeople own boats themselves. They have first-hand experience and knowledge of the South Florida boating landscape. Best of all, Nautical Ventures doesn’t charge a dealer fee.
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