Boating in general is extremely popular in the US for those who can afford this slightly luxurious pastime. According to statistics, upwards of 87 million members of the country’s adult population partake in recreational boating with projections for an increase in the number of registered boating vessels in years to come.

Different Boats for Different Folks

When it comes to purchasing or buying your own boat, you have different options available to you. Some available boat types include motor yachts, catamarans, speedboats and luxury sailboats to name a few. We wanted to focus on those looking to buy luxury sailboats. If you are someone who does want to buy a luxury sailboat but is torn between investing in a brand new vessel or opting for a used sailboat, this blog should help you decide what would suit you best.

Points to be Clear On

Before we get into the new and used aspects, those of you who may be first time buyers must understand that the word “sailboat” is a term that can be used to describe a vessel of any size. You have sailboats suited for four passengers and others as well equipped as the best motor yachts available in the market by way of amenities and luxuries.

You also need to understand that if you know how to sail a boat, you are not limited in terms of where you can take your vessel. As one article posted by the National Geographic Magazine online beautifully illustrates, those sailing have access to some of the most stunning and awe inspiring locations the world over.

Should I Buy a New or Used Sailboat?

Now that we’re clear on the basics, let’s get into if you should personally invest in a brand new sailboat or if you should go for a second-hand option.

Arguments in Favor of Pre-owned or Second-hand Sailboats

It is important to remember that the word ‘pre-owned’ does not indicate that the sailboat in question is damaged, unsafe or in poor condition. If you purchase a second-hand boat wisely, you can actually find some beautifully maintained and sometimes barely used vessels out there for sale. Keeping in mind that you’re getting a vessel that is almost as good as something off the assembly line in most cases if not matched, here are some perks of opting for a used sailboat.

Financial Benefits

The first benefit of opting for a used sailboat is the price. Owners selling old boats on many occasions reduce the price considerably even if the boat is in impeccable condition. For this reason, you can get some beautifully equipped and very capable used luxury sailboats and brilliant prices.

Apart from price over the top, you will probably not need to spend as much on registration, insurance and other such particulars as most of the heavy paperwork will already have been looked after.

Finally, you won’t need to worry too much about price depreciation because the greater part of that has already happened.

Choice

If you’re buying a brand new sailboat, what will probably be available to you is the latest in sailboat models and designs. If you’re looking for an older model and want more choice by way of shape and performance, shopping second-hand is usually beneficial.

Overall Experience

Buying a used sailboat means you don’t need to fret about initial dents and scratches like you would with a new one. Further, refurbishing and modifying your used sailboat can be a rewarding process if done with friends, family and loved ones.

If you work with the right brokerage and do your due diligence before investing, buying a used sailboat is usually a great idea. If you’re looking into temporary ownership or are just looking to experience what owning a sailboat is like for the first time, we also recommend you buy a second-hand sailboat.

Arguments in Favor of Brand New Sailboats

Though investing in a sailboat is not exactly the same as investing in a home or a car, the difference in experience between new and second hand may be comparable. Like with a home or car, there is nothing wrong with buying second hand. Moreover, if you choose well, you could actually get away with a deal which is well in your favor.

This being said, there is a certain joy and excitement associated with buying something new. We’re going to elaborate on some of the arguments in favor of buying brand new sailboats.

Technology and Design

The first benefit of investing in a new sailboat is the fact that you will have access to the latest and most cutting edge in marine technology and design. Though not always the case, on many occasions, new sailboats are smoother, faster and easier to handle than their older counterparts.

Many new designs are also better suited to first time sailors and those starting out. If you’re looking for the latest in what is available, shopping for a new sailboat is what you want to do.

Financial Benefits

The financial benefits of buying a new sailboat may not be as obvious or clear cut as those associated with used models. That being said, they do exist.

Brand new sailboats mean you have access to company warranties, broker warranties and even better insurance payments and premiums. Though you cannot save the way you would on a second-hand model on the basic price, you are getting something off the assembly line which means the value does add up!

Furthermore, you will spend less money on doing up your new sailboat and worrying about maintenance issues.

Overall Experience

A brand new sailboat is brilliant if you’re looking to be the envy of the ocean. What you will have is likely something few others do making it fun, fresh and novel. If you’re looking to buy a sailboat which you intend on keeping for a while we recommend you buy a brand new sailboat!

In Conclusion

We’ve highlighted some of the important particulars but the final decision regarding the kind of boat you should go for is entirely on you. Look into aspects like your financials, your experience with sailing as well as how long you intend on keeping your vessel before locking in that choice.

If you’re looking for large or luxury sailboats for sale, our boat brokerage deals in used sailboats as well as in brand new state of the art models. If you have any more questions that would help you make a better choice, connect with us! Professionals at our brokerage are ever ready to assist and at your service!