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Buying a new boat can be a harrowing experience. There are so many questions: Which boat is right for me? What do I need in my boating package? Who can help me choose? How will I know if I get the 'right' deal?
We recommend you seek advice from a BIA member before buying your first boat. Members operate under a strict Code of Practice, which ensures they provide excellent service, act honestly and fairly in all business dealings, and render accurate, truthful and expert advice to the boating public.
But before you even step out the front door, there are a couple of key points you need to consider:
1. What will I use the boat for? (back to top)
Cruising? Fishing? Diving? Waterskiing? River, lakes, coastal or offshore? Perhaps you will use the boat just for family fun with multi-purpose use. Or maybe you want to get into some serious off-shore fishing?
The purpose of your boat will help determine the type of hull you will need. There are many different hull designs, including a sleek low profile for wakeboat boats, deep-hulled designs for offshore boats, flat-hulled aluminium punts for fly-fishing or multi-hulls for excellent stability at rest.
Once you have determined what you'll be using your boat for, your BIA dealer will help you exlpore the range of hulls to choose the best type for your needs.
2. Where do I plan to store or moor my boat? (back to top)
When you consider this question, you need to think about the height, overall length including trailer, access in and out of storage and security from theft. These factors will limit the size of your boat. Don't forget that there are safe, secure, dry-land facilities available at a number of marinas within close proximity of launching facilities. In addition, many marinas currently offer excellent mooring facilities.
See also FAQs Boat trailers and towing
3. Who is going to operate and handle my boat? (back to top)
Boats come in many different weight and power ratios. You need to consider the conditions of the launching facility you will generally use, the strength and number of people who will assist with launching and retrieval, and also the size and type of vehicle that will be towing the boat.
You will also need to consider the experience of the operator. A boat that is too much to handle will soon put you off the pleasure of getting out on the water. Your BIA dealer will advise you on a boat package that suits your experience, as well as recommending aids, such as drive-on trailers, electric winches and 'boat nabbers' that will assist with launching and retrieval.
4. What is my budget? (back to top)
There are new boats available to suit all budgets. New technologies offer added efficiencies and many pay special attention to comfort and interior design, making family boating more pleasurable than ever.
The used-boat market also offers some excellent rigs, many with a range of extras. Additionally, consider used accessories, extras and options that can update and improve your preferred boating package. The advantage of buying used goods through an accredited BIA dealer is that basic warranties apply, and these will be honoured. The risk of buying privately is that you may be caught with a 'lemon', or worse still, a stolen boat, with little recourse and a big bill to pay.
5. What will my safety requirements be? (back to top)
You are required by law to comply with certain safe boating regulations. Different sets of regulations are determined by the distance from shore you intend to travel. Regulations are clearly outlined in the Boating Safety Handbook put out by the Marine Safety section of Transport SA. For inshore boating the requirements are less complex than those for coastal boating.
Discuss your safety requirements with your dealer, to ensure that your boat is legally and appropriately equipped with safety gear, and that you know how to use it.
Additionally, there are regular information sessions on boating safety, regulations and equipment held at BIA Boat Shows.
See also FAQ: Safe boating
6. What accessories will I need? (back to top)
Canopies are a must for sun protection and also assist with protection from wind, rain and salt spray. For fishing, there are add-ons including bait wells, fish finders and GPS units. 12-volt refrigerated chests will keep more than just fish cold, and ladders, platforms and lockers can be added on to assist with diving activities. Waterski and wakeboard poles add another dimension to boating fun, as do inflatable ski-biscuits and other fun inflatables. The range is endless!
7. Where is my nearest BIA dealer? (back to top)
To find the BIA dealer nearest you, contact the BIASA office on 08 8212 6000.
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