South African coasts offer an exciting getaway for enthusiastic boaters from their busy lifestyle. That could mean taking a one-day cruise in Knysna River or taking out your boat to V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. If you are someone who prefers to cruise by yourself, you will need a boat. In this article, let’s explore different varieties of boats in South Africa and what factors should you consider before choosing the right boat for yourself.
How do I Choose the Right Boat in South Africa?
There is no ‘jack-of-all-trades’ kind of boat. In fact, Discover Boating states that there are about 23 different types of boats to choose from. And even then, the list does not end there. Choosing your first boat is an exciting but sometimes overwhelming experience. Let’s break it down. First, we should consider the factors that will help you choose the right boat.
Determine Your Boating Goals
Choosing the right boat boils down to that one important question: what are you going to do with it?
When you go boating in South Africa, there are plenty of activities to choose from. However, not all boats are suitable for all the activities. So, ask yourself the question above. It will help you narrow down the types of boats you wish to purchase. Once that is done, ask yourself the following questions.
- What activities do you plan to enjoy? Are you interested in fishing, watersports, cruising, or sailing? Different boats are designed for different purposes.
- Where will you be boating? Will you primarily use your boat on lakes, rivers, coastal waters, or the open ocean? The type of water you’ll be on will influence the size and type of boat you need.
- How many people will you be taking out? The number of passengers you plan to accommodate will affect the size and layout of the boat you choose.
These questions will further help you narrow down your choices. The more detailed and clear your answers are, the better your choice will be. Furthermore, we highly recommend talking to boat sellers and discuss your options. This will help you have clarity on the type of boat you need.
Understand your Budget
When you buy a boat, not only do you have to consider the purchase price, but also the costs mentioned below. These will be ongoing, recurring costs, either annually, bi-annually, or monthly.
Boats also vary significantly in price, depending on their model, build, features, and size. Secondhand boats are cheaper than brand-new boats. What kind of boat you want ultimately depends on what you want to do with it. But make sure you also set a realistic budget. The recurring costs are as follows.
- Insurance: South Africa requires you to have insurance for your boat. Make sure you read the terms and conditions and coverage policy.
- Storage: Factor in the cost of storing your boat when it’s not in use. This will be a null cost if you have your private storage facility.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your boat in good condition and it will cost you. We highly recommend getting your boat serviced at least once a year too.
- Fuel: Depending on the type of boat and engine, fuel costs can add up, especially if you plan to use your boat frequently.
- Miscellaneous: Be mindful of additional costs like registration, licensing, and any upgrades or accessories you might want.
Understand the Different Types of Boats
As mentioned previously, Boats come in many shapes and sizes. Each boat serves a different purpose for different activities. Here are some common types of boats for you.
- Fishing Boats: Designed with features like rod holders, live wells, and ample deck space, these boats are perfect for anglers.
- Bowriders: Versatile and popular, bowriders are great for day cruising, watersports, and relaxing with family and friends.
- Pontoon Boats: Known for their stability and spacious decks, pontoon boats are ideal for leisurely cruises and social gatherings on calm waters.
- Sailboats: For those who love the wind and the sea, sailboats offer a traditional and eco-friendly boating experience.
- Cabin Cruisers: These boats are equipped with sleeping quarters and a galley, making them suitable for longer trips and overnight stays.
- Personal Watercraft (PWC): Often referred to as jet skis, PWCs are great for high-speed thrills and solo or small group fun.
Ensure the boat you choose aligns with your SAMSA Skipper License category. If you do not have a SAMSA Skipper License, consider taking a SAMSA Skipper Course with us today.
Conclusion
So, how do you choose the right boat in South Africa? It depends on your lifestyle, objectives, and budget. The objective of this article is to help you sort your thoughts if you are planning to buy a new boat. However, this is just the tip of the iceberg. We highly recommend doing your research and talking to dealers to get a clearer picture of your dream boat.
If you are looking for RYA Powerboat courses and licenses in South Africa, Sail and Power SA is here for you. As an accredited RYA institute in Cape Town, we provide authentic RYA courses to enthusiastic South African boaters. For more information, feel free to contact us today.