Boat Buying Tips: Go Small

Living in the age of megayachts and super megayachts, it is easy to understand why the first time boat buyer would want the most boat they can get for their money – even if it means getting an older model boat to fit their budget. Maybe it’s trying to keep up with the Jones’s, or a pre-boat-buying case of foot-itus. Or maybe it’s that feeling you get at the concession stand at the movies when you are offered the extra-large soda for just a quarter more. It seems like a good value, but is it really the right decision?

TRUE NORTH: a 112-foot Westport, available at RJC Yacht Sales

We recently shared the top 10 reasons to buy a bigger boat (perhaps even as big as the Westport pictured here, offered by RJC Yacht Sales), but we also see things from a more practical point of view – especially in today’s economy.

If you are just starting out in boating, not everybody will tell you this, but you need to hear it. Bigger isn’t always better.

Buying a bigger boat often means:

Ending up with the wrong boat for what you want to do (fish, ski, etc)

Owning an older boat that is too-often in need of repair.

Learning how to boat on a bigger vessel than you’re comfortable with.

Having less usable space than you could get on a slightly smaller, but more modern boat.

Spending too much time (and money) at the fuel dock.

If you are still thinking of buying a new boat, and not sure how big to go, visit our FirstBoat guide on boat buying; specifically, check out our page on the benefits of buying a smaller boat. (Of course, if you are trying to justify buying a bigger boat, we've got ideas for that, too!)

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