Whether it’s your first boat, or any vessel thereafter, all sailors know what a large investment buying a boat inevitably is. Because of this, it can take quite some time to get from dream to reality. This handy, 4-step guide can help you to navigate this enormous task and help to get you sailing sooner.

Step 1: Selecting Your Boat

There are many things to consider when buying a boat, besides just the look and feel. Considerations include what you intend to use your boat for, how many people you need to fit onboard, how much power you’ll require as well as storage and transport for when your craft is not being used.

Another element to keep in mind is the material your boat is made of. Aluminium vessels are lighter weight but the more popular, fibreglass crafts are often considered more sturdy. It’s also possible that you may be needing a little extra lift, in which case you may consider some foam filling for extra buoyancy.

Remember to take your time and consider all the important factors before settling on a choice. Do plenty of research and don’t be afraid to as questions as you go

Step 2: Paying For It

As mentioned earlier, buying a boat is a large investment and oftentimes you won’t have the cash-on-hand to secure your dream. This is where a financing broker can help. Credit One is Australia’s best rated finance broker and it’s easy to see why. They take all the hard work out of financing your new boat by finding you the best rate from over 40 of Australia’s most trusted and reputable lender.

By leaving the process of funding your new boat in the hands of an accredited broker, you’ll have more time to relax and ponder names for, and destinations to take, your new vessel. Established and credible brokerage companies like Credit One often also have associations with first-rate insurers to protect your investment.

Step 3: Naming

What better way to showcase your personality than through an inventive name for your prized possession? With so many options out there, it can be difficult figuring out where to start. Try beginning with a theme, making a list and then whittling down your options to the perfect title. Some common themes include the classic clichés and, always fun, boating puns. To make your naming journey easier, see some examples below.

Clichés

Whether you’re looking to Seas the Day, take to the Vitamin Sea or think your ship is Unsinkable II. There’s a boating pun out there to satisfy everyone’s humour. Maybe it’s Aboat Time you thought about using a classic name instead.

Puns

You can’t go wrong with a classic, and some boating names have definitely stood the test of time. Including; Serenity, Aquaholic, Odyssey and of course the two that most accurately reflect the feeling of being out on the open ocean; Liberty and Freedom.

Step 4: Sail Away

Now that you’ve found the perfect boast, financed it and named it, you can head on out to the open waters. Whether you’re planning on fishing at a local lake or cruising up to the Great Barrier Reef, you’ll find plenty of resources online to help plan your trip. Can’t find quite what you’re looking for? Try signing up to the One Adventure newsletter for regular outdoor exploring inspiration!

To get onto the sea sooner call the team at Credit One on 1300 Credit (1300 273 348) and they’ll get you started with pre-approval. You can also fill in an application online: www.creditone.com.au or email the team at boats@creditone.com.au.