How buying a boat SHOULD be done.
Before diving into the world of Nautique ownership, there is one question you should always ask yourself – What do I want to get out of my boat? We are here to walk you through what we think are the most important aspects to consider when you buy a Nautique, including how to choose the right boat, understanding the costs and how to ensure your Nautique keeps its value.
- Choosing your boat
When it comes to Nautiques, you need to be sure you pick the model that suits your needs. Whether you are into wakeboarding, waterskiing, wakesurfing or even all 3, each different model is crafted to provide a specific experience on the water and it is crucial that you choose the right one for you.
Not only do you need to consider what activities you’ll be doing in your Nautique, but also the size you have available to store the boat (Nautiques come in a range of sizes from 20 to 25 feet long.), the spec you want (including colours, storage and add-ons) and what your budget is.
- New or Used: Weighing the Pros and Cons
Once you have nailed down which model you want to buy, the next decision is whether to go for a new or used vessel. New boats offer the latest features and warranties, while used Nautiques can provide excellent value for money.
At Scotland Nautique, we ensure your purchase is aligned with your budget, desired specifications and how quickly you want to hit the water as you weigh the pros and cons of each option. We understand that deciding to buy a new boat calls for every detail to be carefully considered.
- Test Drive: Putting your New Nautique to the Test
Don’t commit to a new boat without first taking it for a spin! You can schedule a demo with us to get a feel for the boats handling, performance and overall comfort. This step is crucial in making sure your chosen Nautique lines up with your preferences and needs.
In addition, Scotland Nautique provides a turnkey solution for any first-timers venturing into the ‘waters’ of performance sports boats and towable water sports. We ensure all buyers know how to use the boat to its best ability by including a handover with every sale. With our decades of experience on the water, we can show you how to set up the perfect wake/surf waves for your skill level.
- Understanding Costs: Beyond the Purchase Price
Owning a boat involves more than just the initial purchase price. It is essential to consider the ongoing costs, including insurance, maintenance, fuel, storage and even potential upgrades. Understanding these expenses upfront helps you set a realistic budget and ensures you are financially prepared for the full cost of boat ownership.
At Scotland Nautique, there are no hidden fees, no smoke and mirrors. We lay it out for you in layman’s terms and what you see is what you pay.
- Insurance: Protecting Your Investment
Boat insurance is a must. It protects your investment from unforeseen events, whether its damage, theft or liability. We understand how important it is to explore different insurance options and choose a policy that suits your needs and provides the coverage required for your specific activities on the water.
We can provide guidance and advice on this too with free insurance estimates, as well as fibreglass and upholstery repair, and engine rebuilds covered under insurance.
- Storage: During the Season and Winter Storage
When buying a boat, it is important to consider where you will keep your boat during the season. You should look for facilities that offer convenient access to the water, as well as security measures to ensure the safety of your Nautique.
As the weather cools down, it’s time to think about winter storage and winterisation. To ensure your boat is protected from the elements during the offseason and keep it in top condition for the next season, it is essential that your Nautique is properly winterised and kept out of the cold.
Our storage unit in Dumbarton is available all year round and is CCTV monitored at all times. In addition, you can get your boat serviced and winterised in our workshop while it is stored there. Not to mention, we also provide collection and delivery of boats for your convenience.
- Maintenance and Spare Parts
Regular maintenance is key to the longevity of your Nautique. Which is why it is important to familiarise yourself with the manufacturer’s recommendations and schedule routine checks. During, your handover, we will show you how to do all your checks before you hit the water. Ensuring your safety and a well-kept boat.
For any services or repairs on new Nautiques, it is crucial that these are done by our experienced technicians in order to maintain the warranty on the boat. Our technicians are well-versed in all things Nautique, PCM and Yanmar so you can rest assured your boat is in good hands. Aftercare is key to our customer’s ongoing satisfaction and we maintain strong working relationships with our clients by offering high standards of after sales customer service.
- Navigating the waters safely
Before hitting the water, invest time in learning to operate your boat safely and understanding general water regulations. Consider taking a boat safety course (such as RYA PB2 or SBD2) to enhance your knowledge and skills. Being experienced in navigation rules and safety protocols ensures a smooth and enjoyable time on the water.
Buying a boat is an exhilarating journey and one that we, at Scotland Nautique, are primed and ready to take with you. By following these steps, you’ll not only find the perfect Nautique for you but also ensure a seamless boat ownership experience. Embark on this adventure with Scotland Nautique and we will be with you every step of the way to your dream purchase and beyond!
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