Buying a Boat in BC

Before buying a boat in British Columbia, it’s important to assess your needs and expectations:

• The types of activities it will be used for
• If it will be used for day trips or overnight
• The length of time spent travelling to your destination

When buying a boat in British Columbia, consider the following advice:

• Choose a dealer or broker who is willing to go out of their way to ensure your satisfaction
• Buy from boat dealers and brokers who are BCMTA members

Choosing the right boat

One of the main reasons people don’t get involved in boating is that they believe they can’t afford it. In actuality, and especially in BC, boating is an affordable pastime and within most people’s budgets, big or small. There are options for boat renting, chartering and financing the purchase of a new or used boat and ways to cut down costs of ownership.

Whatever your budget is, the first thing to decide is what kind of boat will fit your needs by asking the following questions:

1. Are you most interested in quick trips, fishing or watersports? If so, then perhaps a powerboat under 10 meters is your best option.
2. Are you looking to go on longer day trips or cruises for weeks at a time? If so, you might look at a small sailboat or a larger sail or powerboat with comfortable accommodation, refrigeration, cooking facilities and a washroom (head) with a shower.
3. Do you prefer travelling at a leisurely pace - enjoying the voyage as much as the destination? If so, consider a sailboat or single-engine trawler.
4. Would you prefer to maximize time spent at your destination and minimize the time it takes to get there? If so, consider a fast sedan or flybridge cruiser.
5. If you're unsure about what type of boat you would like to buy, attending BC's premier boating event, the Vancouver International Boat Show is a great way to see a variety of sizes and types to help you determine which one will meet your dreams and your budget.
6. Once you’ve decided what type of boat you’re interested in a yacht broker can help match you with the boat of your dreams. There are dozens of yacht dealerships in BC and they offer a wide selection of speedboats, fishing boats, sailboats and motor yachts.

Boat buying tips

1. Remember that you're not just buying a boat - you're buying a dealer.
2. Visit a dealer that is a member of the BCYBA (BC Yacht Brokers Association). Seeking the expertise of an association member to help you choose the right boat makes the process of buying or selling a boat in BC a straightforward and positive experience.
3. Consider the location of the dealership. Is there service and maintenance nearby, and dealership staff will also be able to advise you about add-ons, features and accessories that are specific to the local climate and weather conditions.

Video - How to Choose the Right Boat

For more boating videos, visit the Discover Boating website.

Video - How to Choose Between a New or Pre-owned Boat

For more boating videos, visit the Discover Boating website.