A boat is a big expense, and the buying process is sometimes the easiest part. There is mooring to pay for, a license, maintenance, and running costs. This guide will cover all of this and more, starting with the basics and working up.
If you are new to boating, start with Types of Boat. Owning a river cruiser is very different to owning a narrowboat. A RIB is very different to both of those. The boat you choose affects almost everything else on this list.
Buying a boat
Buying a Boat will cover what you should look out for boat-wise when you are handing over money for a boat. It works with our guide on marine surveys to explain what a surveyor is looking at and how to interpret the report.
Keeping it somewhere
Where to Keep a Boat reviews different ways to house your boat when you are not using it. This includes marina berths, canal-side moorings, swing moorings, and trailer parking. It is important to take this into consideration before purchasing a boat, not after.
Looking after it
Boat Maintenance is the regular work that stops small problems turning into expensive ones. It links through to our older guides on antifouling and hull care, repairing holes in fibreglass and looking after a yacht.
Staying safe
Safety on Water covers the rules of the water and is generally common sense. Inland boats need a Boat Safety Scheme certificate, as well as a navigation authority license. There is a basic kit every boat should have and our canal boat safety checklist will help with towpath and lock safety.
More guides are coming, covering costs and licensing, boat and outboard engines, winterising, launching from a trailer and boating qualifications.