| (NC)-Boating tends to be a family activity, so | | | | ... and the attractive prices of these units reflect |
| members of the family should be involved in the | | | | cost savings passed on to buyers. |
| process of choosing the boat. Will it be a fishing | | | | Generally, the packaged boat units will offer some |
| boat most of the time? A water-ski tow | | | | power choice, so make sure there is enough push. |
| machine? The basic picnic cruise boat? Determine | | | | Don't go overboard, either; too much power can |
| what it is the family wants the boat to do, then | | | | be fuelish, costly or simply unsafe. |
| go find the model to fit those needs. Most boats | | | | Remember that the dealer that sells the boat will |
| are multifaceted - they can be fishing boats in the | | | | be your partner for advice and service. He or she |
| morning and ski boats in the afternoon. | | | | should be willing to listen to what you want in a |
| Make notes of the family's "must haves," and | | | | boat, then make several recommendations. When |
| "can do withouts." Determine your monthly | | | | the boat needs scheduled service or repairs, the |
| budget for boat ownership and try to stick to it. | | | | dealer should be there to stand behind the sale. |
| But, don't give up a necessity for a few dollars | | | | When shopping for a boat, also shop for the |
| that will cost you convenience or usage later on. | | | | dealer you feel most comfortable with or one |
| Remember that you will often be inviting guests | | | | recommended by friends. |
| aboard, so plan a little extra room for them and | | | | Finally, don't think you're making a lifelong |
| for you. | | | | commitment to a particular boat. It's not a |
| Many boats are now being pre-packaged with | | | | marriage; it's more like an enjoyable relationship. |
| motor and trailer as a complete unit. The | | | | That's because most boat owners trade up as |
| manufacturers have been careful to outfit such | | | | their skills grow and needs change. |
| products for the comfort of the average boater | | | | |