Buying a Boat

Buy a Boat, Buying a Buy

Tow Vehicles: How Big is Big Enough?

Sure, it's a mighty impressive truck, but you don't need that much might to pull the family runabout.

In addition to spending far too much time looking at used boats on BoatTrader.com, even though I don’t need another, I just as often look at gently used … [Read more...]

Video: Harris Flotebote Sunliner 200 Boat Review

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The reviewers over at Boats.com dive into this value-oriented party pontoon boat from Harris Flotebote. Looking for a different review? Search our video … [Read more...]

Water-Pump Impeller: Priority One

On larger inboard engines, an impeller remover like the one made by Jabsco shown here, helps get the old unit out without damaging the pump housing.

Unless you have proof in the form of a receipt or confirmation from the shop that did the work, replacing the water-pump impeller should be one of the … [Read more...]

Boat Speed vs. Fuel Economy

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Given the current level of fuel prices and their volatility, it’s a good idea to be aware of fuel economy when shopping for a new or used boat. Then … [Read more...]

Right-sizing Your Boat

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Right-sizing in the corporate world means the elimination of jobs, but in the boating world it merely reflects a smart choice by boat owners matching their … [Read more...]

Buying a Boat? Where Will You Keep It?

Rack storage can be efficient and cost-effective. Make sure the operators are responsive to haul and launch requests..

Boatbuying can be accompanied by a sort of weird, narrow-focus fever, and it’s common for fever-bright buyers to get way down the purchase path without … [Read more...]

Owning a Trailerable Boat: Hidden Costs

A simple trailer ramp can make wheel chores simpler.

One thing they won’t tell you—and whatever “they” you have in mind is fine with me—is that there are a number of ongoing costs associated with … [Read more...]

Prop Primer: A Short Course in Propeller Terminology

Driven by an inboard diesel, is a left-handed 16x16 propeller. The numbers mean that both its diameter and pitch are 16 inches.

If you’re new to boating, or you're considering buying a boat that's unfamiliar to you, you’ll need to devote some attention to the matter of propellers … [Read more...]

Bow Riders: Top 10 Considerations Before you Buy

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Editor's Note: Thinking about buying a bow rider? Alex Smith explains what makes these boats so appealing for a wide range of uses. The ubiquitous bowrider … [Read more...]

Town Moorings

Mooring

Buying a boat is often easier than finding a suitable place to moor it. I wrote a blog sometime ago about Choosing a Home for your Boat. That blog was … [Read more...]