Back

Buying The Right Boat

May. 10 2021 Buying Guide By McGovern's RV & Marine

Share

With warm weather on the way, it’s time to consider buying a boat or upgrading to a better one! Time on the water is the best way to celebrate the thaw, but how do you know which boat is best for you? We here at McGovern’s RV & Marine want to make sure you get the boat you want, so we’ve put together a brief guide on buying the right boat. To learn more, or to see the boats we have for sale, contact our store in Grande Prairie, Alberta, today!

Budget

The first step in any big purchase is to set a firm budget before you start shopping. You need to know exactly what you can afford before you get too attached to any specific model or type.

How You Use It

First, consider what you’ll be using the boat for. Different models are built for different activities and driving styles. Fishing boats, party boats, speed boats, and more are all geared towards specific buyers.

If you’re planning on larger parties, you’ll want a boat with a spacious and comfortable layout. If you want to tow watersports enthusiasts, seek out models with high speeds and large wakes. 

Size

Next, consider how big your boat needs to be. Consider the following to determine your size needs:

  • The typical size of the groups you’ll be bringing
  • The amount of cargo you’ll need for your experience
  • Your comfort level with maneuvering the boat
  • How rough the waters in your typical body of water are (larger boats will handle choppier waters better)

Hull Shape

Hull shape can affect how the boat handles and what it’s good at. One typical design is a wide, flat shape that’s good for navigating shallow waterways and cruising over obstacles. A V-shaped hull is better able to cut through rough waters while remaining stable. These also create better wakes for watersports enthusiasts. 

Features

There are plenty of extra options that can make your boating experience easier. They tend to increase the price a bit, but the extra utility is worth it. For example, a fishing boat can make good use of a livewell to keep catches fresh, rod holders to keep fishing poles secure, and a rod locker for storing your fishing gear. 

Perhaps you want a retractable awning that can provide shade for your group on a hot day, or features that make towing folks on skis, boards, or tubes easier. Figure out what your boat is for and aim for features that enhance the experience!

Ready to find the boat of your dreams? If you have any questions, or you’re just ready to see the boats in our inventory, contact us at McGovern’s RV & Marine. We proudly serve the people of Edmonton, Alberta—let us serve you today!