If you’ve decided to finally take the plunge (excuse the pun) and purchase a boat to enjoy our magnificent cruising grounds, you might be stuck between the choice of buying a power or sail boat.
The best way to ensure you make the right decision is to understand exactly what kind of voyages you plan on making. Ask yourself:
- Where do I want to go on my boat? eg: sheltered waters, coastal waters, offshore.
- How long will my typical trip be? eg: a few hours, days, weeks, months, etc.
- What activities do I want to do from my boat? eg: sailing, fishing, diving, just relaxing, etc.
- Who will join me on my trips? Eg: partner, kids, friends, etc.
A common perception is that sailing boats are best suited to those who enjoy the journey as much as the destination, those who relish the experience of cruising from one point to another in true harmony with nature. However, sailing is a learned skill and requires plenty of activity along the way to achieve optimum speed and performance. That being said, the relatively simple training required to handle a sail boat makes the exhilarating experience truly worthwhile. Sailing boats are practical, environmentally friendly and more cost-efficient for cruising long distances due to their use of wind power as opposed to fuel-burning engines.
Powerboats are often preferred by those who like to step aboard, turn a key and get to their destination as quickly as possible. Powerboats have larger engines and fuel tanks and obviously cost more to run than a sailing boat of similar size.
Carefully consider the length of your typical journeys as well as the purpose. For example, if you’re primarily going to use your boat for day trips fishing with your family in sheltered waters, then a small power boat could be ideal. However if you are wanting to embark on some coastal cruising for extended periods, a sail boat will be far more economical to run. After mapping out your purpose for owning a boat, it will become obvious which is best for you.
Once you establish whether a power boat or sail boat is your best option, the next decision to make is what size of boat is best for you, followed by what brand best meets your requirements. We will be covering these topics in future blog posts.
In the meantime, if you have any questions or would like to discuss your options, feel free to contact the Multihull Solutions team. Multihull Solutions deals in power and sailing vessels (new and pre-owned), and their team has an ocean of experience and knowledge across both categories of boat.
Familiar with the pros and cons of both sail and power boats, Multihull Solutions offers unbiased advice to ensure you are matched with the best boat that will suit your budget and requirements so you and your family can be enjoying the magical world of boating as soon as possible.
Feel free to contact us on 1300 855 338 or email info@multihullsolutions.com.au. We look forward to helping you realise your boating dreams.