Peak boating season is upon us. This year, 59 million Americans will be on the water. Although many assume that boating is only for the wealthy, three-quarters of those who own the 18 million boats are from households with incomes below $100,000.
Discover Boating is a national awareness program for the recreational boating industry. It provides a comprehensive online resource that answers all your questions and clarifies common misconceptions.
DiscoverBoating.com offers a new interactive budget planner that compares boating prices to other family activities like vacations, golf and RVing.
A six-day vacation to a theme park costs a family of four on average $3,100 per year, or $258 per month. The same family could also purchase a $15,000 boat, which would cost $100 per month less than a week of vacation.
“When you start to break down costs associated with our favorite pastimes, it may be a surprise to learn boating is an affordable and convenient way to reconnect with your family and relieve stress,”Keith Ammons is the Discover Boating consumer information manager.
Discover Boating provides the following information for anyone who is interested in getting into boating:
Do your homework. Boat shows offer an excellent way to compare models and brands while also taking advantage of special pricing and incentives. DiscoverBoating.com provides impartial online information and tips on all types of boats, including insurance, financing, and a calendar with boat shows.
Create a budget. You can find brands and price points that suit your needs. Before actively searching, you should determine how much you are willing to spend. Many entry-level boats below $200 have a variety financing options that offer monthly payments.
Try the Waters. To test the water, visit a local dealer. Dealers can help narrow down options and suggest budget-friendly options. They also offer a ‘test drive” to test the boat in the water. You can test drive different sizes and types of boats to help you make the right choice.
– Get the Seal of Approval. Prospective buyers need to consider more than just the price tag when buying a new boat. The NMMA (National Marine Manufacturers Association Certified) label is a guarantee that the boat meets industry-standards. DiscoverBoating.com provides a comprehensive list of NMMA Certified boat manufactures.
DiscoverBoating.com offers additional tips, resources, and general information about boating.
