There are many different choices when deciding what to do for recreation. Boating has become a very popular recreational sport to enjoy. However, before committing to such a sport or hobby, however, one must consider the many aspects to this particular sport.
Boating requires a bit of an initial investment. One should decide whether or not they want to purchase a boat, befriend someone with a boat, or rent a boat. Either way, there are several safety concerns that one must examine before committing to such a hobby. Purchasing allows you to utilize the boat whenever you want, but comes with much more financial obligations. Renting a boat gives you the financial freedom, but restricts when you can use it. Befriending someone who owns a boat allows you to also have the financial freedom, but again, restricts when you can use it. A smart alternative would be to ask around to people who own boats and find out what the perks are and what the downfalls are before investing.
Several State departments offer boating exams and boating licenses. This is especially important-and often required-when purchasing a boat. Things like CPR, alcohol usage, speed limits, fuel types, and safety concerns are included in the exams in order to get licenses.
If one chooses to opt out of taking the exams and licenses, there could be penalties to pay. Such penalties could include, monetary fines, loss of boating privileges, injury, or even death of loved ones. Taking such exams could help bring your insurance liability down, and could help if you were ever involved in a lawsuit.
There are also monetary items to consider when entering the boating industry. One must think of the maintenance, including considering what kind of engine does this boat has; whether or not one is buying it new; how much the insurance is; how much the registration is; and whether or not the boat capable of being towed behind one?s vehicle. If not, one must consider where the boat will be stored. These factors should all be considered.
There is also another factor to consider ? accessibility. There should likely be a lake, river, or ocean near one to use. Also, tow capacity should be considered to tow the boat. Docking the boat should be thought of, as well as the distance from the docking area to one?s home. Lastly, one must consider their weekend schedule and their availability to use the boat.
Lastly, one must consider their family and living situation, such as children. If one has children, they must consider if they comfortable and familiar with water. Also, one should know CPR in case one of the children or passengers gets hurt or falls out of the boat. Additionally, one must think about their current obligations that would hinder their availability to utilize the boat, such as sports, clubs, meetings, etc? All of these items should be heavily considered before committing to a boat purchase.
A boat is a very expensive and involved hobby to acquire. Whether you plan to utilize it for recreational purposes or competitive sports, you must consider all aspects before purchasing the item.
Source: http://www.coastalfrontier.com/considerations-on-boats-and-recreation
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