 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy a boat?
If you are in Central Florida you can check our member listing of dealers and the lines they represent.
Do I need a license to operate a boat?
In the state of Florida, persons age 21 and older do not need a license to operate a boat.
Any person under the age of 21 operating a boat 10hp or more must have a Boater Education certificate.
Please check with the your local marine patrol.
What kind of vehicle do I need to tow a boat with?
It will always depend on the weight of the boat you are buying. It's best to check the owners manual of your vehicle to see what the net towing capacity of your vehicle is.
Will a boat fit in my garage?
In most cases, the dealer can sell you a trailer with a removable or swing tongue to get a smaller boat (18-22') into a garage.
Where can I store a boat?
If you can't fit it in your garage, most dealerships offer a storage service. If you can't find a dealership that offers storage, most mini-storage businesses have space for boats and RV's.
How do I finance a boat?
Dealerships usually have an in-house finance department and are set up with numerous finance companies. Because the dealer has the resources of over two dozen lending institutions, it is best to do your financing through the dealer that is selling you the boat. They can get you the best deal.
Do I need insurance?
If you are financing your boat purchase, yes you do need insurance. Some finance companies do not require insurance if the amount financed is less than $5000.00 or $7500.00, depending on the company.
« Top of page
|
 |
|
|
Where can I use a boat? Where can't I use a boat?
Any marine retailer has guide books for the Florida waterways. You can also obtain charts for most of the local lakes. I'm sure any boat retailer would also be happy to give you information on places to go.
What kind of gas does it use?
99% of the boats discussed on this website all run on gasoline, the same stuff you put in your car. The other 1% run on diesel fuel, more common in boats in the 40' range.
Are the engines different from the one in my car?
All sterndrive and inboard engines are the same basic General Motors engines you find in a car although there are many differences in the electrical systems and the accessories bolted onto them. Many parts are specifically designed for the marine environment to ensure longevity. All fuel and electrical systems must also be Coast Guard approved for use in a boat. One should not ever attempt to replace marine engine parts with parts purchased from an auto parts store.
Outboard motors are not the same as the motor in your car. Outboard motors are typically 2 stroke motors that require a fuel/oil mixture. Most have an automatic oil mixing system and newer motors feature fuel injection or direct injection technology. Some outboard motors are four stoke and do not require mixing oil. Outboard motors are typically found on most fishing boats because they do not take up any room in the boat and a fisherman wants all the room he can get to pull the big ones in.
What does maintenance cost?
Depending on the size and type of the motor, yearly maintinance can run anywhere from $100.00 to $400.00.
|
|
|
|
