Why Own a Boat?

Why own a boat?

For me, the answer to that question is simple.  There are few pleasures in the world like being on the water, and sharing that with family and friends is unbelievably satisfying.  I happen to have four children (all daughters, they are amazing humans).  There is no unifying activity within our means and reach that is met with the same excitement and enthusiasm as heading out on the water.  Every one of my kids not only loves to boat, swim, and even fish; but they want to share that experience with friends and family.  (Even their dad).  So do you have to own a boat to feel this way?

Sure you can head out and rent a boat for a while.  That is, if you can find a marina near you that rents boats.  Just be prepared to spend $4-800 for even a few hours (sometimes much more), plus fuel cost and a damage deposit.  Then, in return for that investment, you get to spend the first half of your time getting used to the boat and figuring it out, and the second half of the day getting it cleaned up and ready to return.  Spend the four to six minutes of relaxing time in between these two phases of your day contemplating why you blew an amount equivalent to a monthly payment on a brand new boat renting one.  Do not forget as an added bonus - the boat you will be using is a complete piece of crap, underpowered, under-featured, and probably already beat to heck even before your day.  Don't make this mistake.

How about borrowing a boat?  If you have a friend willing to loan you their boat for the day, more power to you.  If they say yes, please beware of this madman, he has clearly lost his mind.  You will not be getting back your snow blower or lawn edger you loaned this person.  This option is not available to most people but go ahead and ask if you "know a guy".  You both will enjoy the belly laugh and have a story to tell your friends.

You can boat with a friend or family member, and I highly recommend that you do this as often as you can in different types of boats.  This is one of the best ways to determine your needs and wants, as well as what style and size of boat will best fit your family.  Your boating host will typically be very gracious about return visits, especially if they continue to see their fuel tank and cooler magically refill.  This will only carry you so far, and you are at the mercy of someone else's schedule.  Ask good questions, such as what do you like most about your boat?  What would you change if you could do it over again?  Have you talked to Sportsman's about trading it in for a new one?

So you should take the plunge and buy one.  Do not forget to factor in the cost of storing and insuring the boat.  I can assure you if you have access to a place where you can obtain a slip and/or a lift, that will be well worth the extra expense because of the convenience.  You will be exponentially more likely to use the boat more if you make it easier to access.  The bottom line is, the only way to have the perfect boat ready to go to the lake whenever you are, is to own one.  Life is short.  Buy a boat.