Quentin
New Member
Hi, I’m new to boating (have rented a pontoon a few times) and considering buying a used Sundancer. I’ve been checking out the forums for the last week, but would appreciate getting feedback on a few things. There’s a lot here, so input on even just one question is appreciated:
1. Can I learn how to handle a boat if I don’t have friends or family with experience to teach me? People in another thread suggested taking a boating safety course and hiring a captain for the first few days. Any other suggestions?
2. I’m consider a 26 to 28 foot Sundancer (‘01 to ‘08) with less than 500 hours on the engine(s). I’m married, have a three year old and am planning to keep the boat on the Hudson river north of NYC.
- Any thoughts on this type of boat given my circumstances?
- Is there any way to rent a boat like this for a weekend to try out the lifestyle?
- I’ve been looking on boattrader.com. Anywhere else I should be looking?
- It sounds like a survey and a sea trial are very important before making a purchase. Any other significant things to consider as part of the buying process?
3. After the purchase, it seems like the primary costs will be fuel, slip fees, storage, insurance and maintenance. Anything else to keep in mind? Maintenance seems like the big cost. One thing I read estimated 10% of the purchase cost for annual maintenance. I’m guessing that puts annual maintenance around $5-7k. Does that seem right?
Thanks for your help!
1. Can I learn how to handle a boat if I don’t have friends or family with experience to teach me? People in another thread suggested taking a boating safety course and hiring a captain for the first few days. Any other suggestions?
2. I’m consider a 26 to 28 foot Sundancer (‘01 to ‘08) with less than 500 hours on the engine(s). I’m married, have a three year old and am planning to keep the boat on the Hudson river north of NYC.
- Any thoughts on this type of boat given my circumstances?
- Is there any way to rent a boat like this for a weekend to try out the lifestyle?
- I’ve been looking on boattrader.com. Anywhere else I should be looking?
- It sounds like a survey and a sea trial are very important before making a purchase. Any other significant things to consider as part of the buying process?
3. After the purchase, it seems like the primary costs will be fuel, slip fees, storage, insurance and maintenance. Anything else to keep in mind? Maintenance seems like the big cost. One thing I read estimated 10% of the purchase cost for annual maintenance. I’m guessing that puts annual maintenance around $5-7k. Does that seem right?
Thanks for your help!