Boat Ownership
THINKING ABOUT BUYING A BOAT?
Here’s what you should know
A boat is so much more than just a product. It’s a key that unlocks a world of possibilities — which is why so many people aspire to have a boat of their own. Aspirational products are generally more expensive than utilitarian ones, because you get a whole lot more for your hard-earned dollar.
Here, we’ll break down the total cost of boat ownership, so you have a clear understanding of what’s involved. We hope you’ll agree, the fun to be had far outweighs the price!
Boat Price
Consider your ideal down payment amount and method of financing, based on your finances and credit score.
Tax, Title, Prep
Taxes, tag, title, registration and dealer prep fees all factor into your initial purchase.
Insurance
Many boat insurance companies provide discounts for having a captain’s license or taking a boater’s safety course — so do your research!
Storage
Whether it’s at a marina, behind your house, or in storage, weigh the costs of where you’ll keep your boat. And if trailering, you’ll need a vehicle that’s capable and correctly equipped.
Warranty
Understand the terms of your boat’s warranty and how you’ll be supported if repair work is needed.
A Word About Warranties
Dealers provide support as your boat ages, so you’re protected for the long haul. As a larger company, Whaler is able to offer more factory support, with our in-house Customer Concierge team, as well as our friendly and accessible Sales & Marketing team. And thanks to our award-winning global dealer network, you’re never far from industry-leading service and support.
Boston Whaler offers a 10-year hull warranty and 3-year warranty on components — better terms than many other manufacturers.
When Choosing A Boat Brand
If you want a boat you can feel proud to own, now and long into the future, you’ll want to consider more than just the size and shape.
- Smart design and use of space
- Premium materials
- Superior-quality parts
- Industry-leading technology
- Features that are easy to clean and maintain
Why? Because the less time you spend worrying about quality or repairing things that go wrong, the more time you have for what’s important: enjoying the water with family and friends.
Performance & Technology
Look for brands that put their boats through rigorous testing, both on the water and with each individual component, to ensure impeccable performance. Many companies outsource this part of the process, but it’s an important factor to consider.
How Does Whaler Do It?
We employ a team of in-house naval architects and structural engineers. This allows for in-depth stability analysis to occur and, more importantly, allows for close back-and-forth communication between the design and engineering groups. Our teams also work hand-in-hand with Mercury for seamless engine integration and propulsion performance. Tolerances become more precise, efficiencies increase, and the boats reflect the true power of teamwork.
The Whaler Difference
Our boats may cost more than others but that’s because we use only the best components. Every Whaler is “over-engineered” and “over-built”, using premium materials to ensure better reliability and durability that stand the test of time.
- Stainless-steel fasteners with chrome-plating to eliminate rust
- .316 stainless steel vs. cheaper .304, for greater strength and lasting shine
- Premium powder-coating vs. anodized aluminum to prevent corrosion and have less maintenance
- Waterproof parts designed for “hose-and-go” readiness
- Seat cushions with a layer of drainage foam
- Fully finished interior compartments, so every inch of your Whaler looks first class
At the heart of every Whaler is the exclusive Unibond™ construction process. Whaler uses a proprietary closed-cell, environmentally friendly foam, injected between the hull’s inner and outer liners — not just below the waterline but up the sides, as well — to create a single, unbreakable unit. This not only results in the boats’ unsinkable safety, but also contributes greatly to ride quality.
Below are the most common costs associated with boat ownership and use.
Not all costs apply to all boaters, of course; your experience is up to you!
- Normal
- Fun
- Necessary
- Alternatives
Fuel
For both your boat and your tow vehicle, if towing. (Note that your fuel economy will be reduced with a trailer behind you.)
REGISTRATION & INSURANCE
Typically renewed annually, these essentials must be kept up to date.
Subscription Services
These include roadside trailering assistance, on-water towing services, satellite radio, weather and navigation tech.
Maintenace
Annual and preventative care for your boat, trailer, engine and components, including oil changes, cleaning, wax and so on.
Launch Ramps
If you’ll be trailing your boat from home to the boat ramp, you may have to pay a fee to launch.
YACHT CLUB/MARINA FEES
Any costs associated with joining and enjoying yacht clubs in your area or storing your boat on the water.
Activity Fees
Boating courses, fishing licenses, captain’s fees, and other costs built into the activities you love.
Events
Whaler and its Dealers host special rendezvous and events throughout the year, some of which require payment to attend.
Entertaining
Boats are ideal for hosting get-togethers. You’ll want to stock up on food, alcohol and other supplies to keep guests happy.
gear
From boat shoes, sun shirts, bathing suits, sunscreen and towels to fishing equipment, life jackets, water sports gear and beyond.
accessories
Custom aftermarket add-ons like trolling motors, coolers, grills, decals, boat tops… the options abound!
Seasonal
Winterization costs for colder climates, and hurricane preparations for those in impacted zones.
Repair
Mishaps happen to the best of us! Plan on needing repairs at some point.
Rentals
You can rent a boat for a day, a week or longer, depending on your plans. The upside is, you don’t have to worry about maintenance, cleaning, fuel or storage
Boat Clubs
Joining a Boat Club gives you added flexibility over one-time rentals and can be a good solution for semi-frequent boaters.
Final Thoughts
Remember, a boat is so much more than a vessel for cruising around — it’s a vessel for new memories! You’ll always remember your child’s first fishing trip, a romantic date night on the water, an unforgettable offshore adventure with friends, or simply watching the sun set over the horizon. Moments like these are, quite simply, priceless.
AND Whalers really hold their value compared with other brands! And more people want used Whalers too. So when the time comes for that upgrade, know that you’ll be in the best position possible.
Find Your Boat
Now that you’ve learned how boating can be affordable for everyone, let us help you find your perfect boat! Use our guided selling tool to pinpoint the right Whaler for your boating style, or learn the different activities that our boats specialize in.