s Chartering a better Option The Long Wait….. than buying used? I

Long wait times for the delivery of new boats is gradually decreasing but remains significant. Buyers, whether they are existing boat owners or sailors buying their first boat must choose a boat of the right size, with a suitable performance characteristics, layout and amenities.

The existing owners tend to accept the wait and use their existing boat but a lot of first - time boat buyers want to get on the water as soon as possible.

Often they feel pressure to compromise and go for a used boats rather than waiting for a new boat that really suits them.

New boats come with warranty and after-sales service and do not have the problems related to age that used boats do.

Buyers need to assess the condition of the used boat, probably aided by a survey, to establish, as best they can, the overall condition of the boat and equipment, highlighting items or areas that will require attention. The number and extent of these often vary with the age and use of the boat.

The day you buy a second-hand boat it is yours once you pay and exchange contracts so you need to budget your ownership costs.

Whether buying new or used, buyers need to establish costs for berthing, insurance, registration and maintenance, as well as an allowance for unforeseen occurrences.

Annual maintenance normally includes hauling out, antifouling, replacement of anodes and all the little jobs that are best done out of the water and involves time and usually a little effort.

While the used boat owner may find the above a bit daunting; the new boat buyer has after-sales service to help him out.

It is often said that the ownership costs are more significant than the buying price.

Chartering a yacht, or yachts, until your new boat is delivered can prove a realistic and reasonable alternative for people looking for the benefits of a new yacht and who are new to boating. For those not meeting the charter companies experience requirements, the companies will usually provide a skipper or instructor to help you out and increase your experience.

A real advantage of chartering is that is a "pay as you use the boat" system rather than having on - going maintenance and ownership costs.

It also gives you experience with boat operation and equipment use in a real life environment.

Local knowledge can be gained in your intended sailing areas; even down to visiting marinas to ascertain which one suits your future needs then.

From a quick look at costs based on average charter use and boat size,; costs of chartering appear slightly less financially and will involve a smaller time commitment.