Re: buying a boat
Make sure you thoroughly check the trailer - as has been said before. I used to have 16ft Shakespeare with a 40hp on the back. Was brilliant fun, but just didn't get the use out of it. I didn't get the VHF Radio, as I only used it along the coast, had a number of mobiles (in waterproof/dry bags) and flares. I did do my level 2 powerboat and have driven a fair few boats over the years.
I was towing it behind my old 106 and the insuspension unit on the trailer gave way. Dropping the trailer onto the floor at 20mph - had to fix the whole thing by the side of the road. - New insuspension units on both sides, new hubs and bearings. - Definitely grease it up and check it thoroughly.
If you are buying a boat with an outboard get some flushmuffs, then rinse clean water from your hose through the running engine after use.
Don't forget that any boat you are going to see now should be winterised, so starting it could damage the engine. It will need to be de-winterised before use - steer clear of any that haven't been properly winterised and maintained - they will cause you problems.
Make sure you lift out the seats and look behind the panels for signs of water ingress or any repaired damage.
There are a lot of idiots who own boats, but don't maintain or use them properly. - Just make sure you check it all out.
Boats are great fun, you will love it.
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