Are you interested in being a boat owner? Around 1.1 million used boats were sold in 2021. And tens of millions of Americans enjoy boating every year. But it’s one thing to rent or borrow a boat — it’s another thing to buy one.
While you don’t need to own a boat to enjoy the boating experience, there are some reasons you might want to own a vessel. Consider these five reasons to buy one for your household.
1. More Trip Options
When you have a boat, you’ll have more traveling options. You won’t have to go on long road trips during holiday weekends. Are you tired of highways that are often so crowded that they resemble parking lots? Instead of sitting in traffic, maybe with kids asking how long it’ll take to get to your trip destination, why not go boating and enjoy the open water?
Depending on how much you want to spend, you can get a boat that has many of the features and amenities you have in your own home. If you’re interested in finding a new way to vacation, a boat can help.
2. Pick Up New Hobbies
Do you have any hobbies? It’s a good idea to unwind at times for relaxation. Boating is one of those things that can become habit-forming. It can provide a way to enjoy the great outdoors with home and friends. It can also be the gateway to other hobbies. For example, you might want to enjoy the following activities if you buy a boat:
- Fishing
- Swimming
- Waterskiing
- Snorkeling
- Scuba diving
If you don’t currently have any hobbies, buying a boat can remedy that fairly quickly. All work and no play isn’t good for anyone.
When you’re worn out from all the physical activity, you might want to tuck into a good book. It’ll be fun to enjoy some books while sitting in a comfortable boat seat, enjoying the cool breeze, and hearing the sounds of the great outdoors. You might become a book worm due to boating!
3. Cheaper Vacations
If you buy a houseboat with everything your family needs, you might find vacations cheaper than driving somewhere and renting hotel rooms. It’ll be like traveling in an RV minus the road traffic. Your family will have more good memories when you can travel by boat rather than by car.
4. Strengthen Family Relationships
Don’t underestimate the importance of quality family time. The health benefits of social interaction include the following:
- Better stress management
- Longer lifespan
- Strong cardiovascular health
- Better psychological well-being
You’ll all be in one space when you’re on a boat with your family. As long as you’re not all focused on your smartphones, tablets, and other such devices, there’ll be plenty of opportunities for spending time as a family. You can eat, talk, play games, and enjoy activities on the water together.
5. Inexpensive Second Home
Do you want a vacation home but can’t buy one due to the cost of purchasing and maintaining real estate? If so, consider getting a houseboat. It’ll be cheaper than buying another residence — and you won’t be subject to annual property tax.
A well-equipped boat will give your family a relatively cheap alternative to a second home for vacations or family gatherings. And you’ll be able to go wherever you want with a boat, which means you’ll have a home that’s mobile.
If you’ve been considering buying a boat for your family, these five benefits are good reasons to bite the bullet. You and yours can get plenty of enjoyment as boat owners, and you can get some outstanding deals should you not want to buy a brand-new vessel.
