With fall in full swing here on Vancouver Island, we’re approaching the end of another incredible boating season. The weather has cooled off as daylight time shrinks, and many boat owners are getting ready to prep their boats for Winter (if they haven’t already).

Fall is a crucial time for boat owners. There’s a lot to do and prepare for on the maintenance front. Plus, some might consider selling their boat to make room for an upgrade to enjoy next season.

Here’s what you need to know about entering the off-season:

Yacht Haul-Outs, Maintenance & Dry Dock Storage

What is a boat haul-out?

A haul-out is the physical removal of a boat from the water and onto dry land. For most boat owners, this happens annually. With the boat up on dry land, this is the time to carry out regular maintenance, winterization, and other preparations for next season.

Once maintenance and winterization have been completed, boats are then moved to storage. There are a number of storage options, from wet to dry to heated indoor – more on that below.

Of course, a proper boat haul-out with storage requires a proper facility to do so. Van Isle Marina can haul-out and accommodate boats up to 70 feet or 60 tons. Plus, our marina is a full-service one, making it a one-stop-shop for maintenance, repairs, winterization and storage.

When should I haul out my boat for Winter?

We always recommend boat owners haul their boats out some time in the Fall. But early Fall is preferable.

The risk to hauling out later in the season is the time crunch. The first freeze of Winter can come unexpectedly, and when it does, it can lead to cracking in the engine block or plumbing. Organize your haul-out earlier to avoid a panic.

Do I need to haul my boat out for Winter?

No, boat haul-outs are not mandatory for all boats and boat owners. We’re lucky here on Vancouver Island with our mild climate, because boating can be a year-round activity for the most diligent and dedicated boat owners.

Some boat owners choose to leave their boats in the water year-round. Some still enjoy fishing and weekend expeditions in the colder weather, while some waterfront owners enjoy easy access to moorage right outside their home.

If you are considering this route, keep in mind that it requires even more care and attention. The boat will need to be monitored very closely for marine growth, corrosion and moisture buildup. Plus, maintenance still needs to happen. Instead of doing everything at once and then storing for months, year-round boaters do maintenance on the fly or as needed.

Learn more about haul-out rates and other services.

What are my options for Winter boat storage?

Usually there are three options: Wet Slip, Dry Storage, or Heated Indoor.

When you haul your boat out for regular maintenance and winterization, you’re probably looking for 5-6 months of storage before you’re ready to hit the open water again come Spring. Let’s go over your options:

• Wet Slip: This is a regular boat slip in the water at a marina dock. This option offers the best level of accessibility. There’s also the option to live-aboard. You can take your boat out for a spin at any time, but you will be challenged with moisture buildup and constant saltwater exposure.
• Dry Storage: Your boat is kept on land – outdoors, but covered. Here, your boat gets a break from the saltwater and can shelter from the elements until you’re ready to use it again. Learn more about our up-to-date dry storage rates.
• Heated Indoor: This option is fully enclosed and climate-controlled. It comes at a cost (compared to dry storage), but guarantees your boat’s sensitive digital systems, electronics, and upholstery will be unaffected by a cold winter.

How should I prepare for a haul-out?

Preparation for any haul-out is key, whether your boat will be out of the water for 2 days or 6 months. Give yourself lots of time. That way, organizing maintenance or recruiting manpower will be easy. At Van Isle Marina, getting your boat serviced is even easier, with access to dozens of maintenance and repair services just steps down the dock. With everything in one place, organization becomes a breeze.

As a boat owner, proper planning and preparation are your number one job before any haul-out. Days before the scheduled haul-out and on the day of, there are a few things to know as well. Read this article for 10 things you can do to prepare for a haul-out: Tips for a Successful Haul-Out.

Buying & Selling

Is Fall a good time to buy a boat?

Fall is perhaps the most ideal time of year to buy a boat on Vancouver Island, for a couple of reasons.

On one hand, sellers are a little more motivated to sell versus in the Spring or Summer. Boat owners are ready to move on and upgrade, and would prefer getting their current boat sold in time to prep for next boating season. Same goes for boat brokers and dealers. There are often discounts to be had as inventory is cleared for newer models.

As a prospective buyer, closing on a boat in the Fall gives you ample time to do any necessary maintenance, maybe a fresh coat of paint, and prepare for Spring with plenty of time to spare.

Looking for a new boat? Check out Van Isle Marina’s collection of new Pursuit boats or pre-owned sailboats and motor yachts.

Should I list my boat for sale in the Fall or Spring?

Fall and Spring are the two seasons you should consider selling your boat in. Avoid the dormant Winter and chaotic Summer.

Generally speaking, the Spring is known for stronger demand. More sellers, but more buyers too. People are eager to get out on the water, and boats usually fetch higher prices.

In the Fall, the market is noticeably less flooded with boats. There’s a chance your listing could stand out. The buyer pool is smaller too, but Fall buyers are typically the serious kind, ready to make a deal before Winter sets in.

Contact Van Isle Marina to inquire about buying, selling or trading in:

The decision to purchase a sport fishing boat is a major one that shouldn’t be made lightly. Most sport fishing boat owners have owned boats before. And at the very least, they’ve sunk a ton of time into research and discussions with those in the industry. They’ve learned about the serious economic requirements of owning one of these boats, and have thought long and hard about how the boat will be used and where it will be stored.

Here are some things to think about along your journey of choosing a sport fishing boat:

Size Considerations

The size of your new boat will be one of the most important initial decisions you make. If you plan on driving and managing the boat yourself without a crew, you’re probably looking for something under 50 ft. If you’re open to keeping a crew, you’ll be able to go bigger, bring more people aboard and take longer overnight trips.

Finding a slip in a marina or elsewhere is another challenge. If you already have a slip, what’s the maximum length it can hold? If you don’t already have a slip, you’ll need to ensure you can secure a large space before you splurge on the large boat.

The size of your boat will determine which kind of fishing it’s best designed for as well. If you want to head out into the open ocean with rougher conditions, you’ll need a craft that’s 25ft+. And if you’re after extra large fish like tuna, you’ll want to aim a lot bigger.

Fishability on Deck

A good fishing boat is “fishable” from numerous areas onboard. Being able to easily move around on deck in the pursuit of fish is a nice benefit, without having to trip over gear or climb over unpathed sections of your boat.

The best sport fishing boats are fishable from anywhere, offering 360-degree fishability. If this kind of fishing experience is what you’re after, the Pursuit Center Console Collection is an excellent choice. With boats ranging from 25 to over 37ft. These boats have a center console design, allowing for lots of seating and 360-degree maneuverability.

Boat Construction

You’ll notice that specialized sport fishing boats will have certain construction features that allow them to perform at a higher level, while keeping everyone onboard safe. The material is probably the first thing you’ll notice. Some fishing boats are made with aluminum, which provides durability in shallow waters. But most sport fishing boats – including all Pursuit models– are made with fibreglass for a smooth journey in open waters.

On deck, there are numerous other features to watch for:

• Deep cockpits that allow those onboard to lean over the edge safely
• Special slip-proof flooring
• Sloped decks with scuppers for naturally draining water
• Well-padded perimeters to protect those leaning against gunwales
• Deep hull for guiding anglers through choppy waters
• Flush surfaces throughout, which help prevent lines from catching
• Transom doors for hauling in large catch

Plentiful Power

The power of your sport fishing boat is important – especially when you’re out on the water with multiple bodies on board. Size is usually a good indicator of performance and power, but not always. You’ll want a boat that’s powerful for its size, in order to avoid sluggish performance when it’s filled to the brim with fishing gear and passengers.

If maximum power is what you’re after, the S 428 Sport is Pursuit’s flagship center-console model that generates up to 1,800 horsepower out on the water thanks to quad Yamaha 425 XTO engines. In the S 428, performance will never be in question.

Fishing Features

It’s not a sport fishing boat without fishing features that help you get the job done out on the water. Of course, you can fish from any boat. But if fishing is a central purpose for your new boat, you’re going to want all the bells and whistles that will make your experience incredible.

Fish storage is one must-have. You’ll want well-insulated and aerated live wells for keeping your catch alive, and large stainless steel boxes to preserve your catch over ice. Then you’ll need secure rod holders in different areas of your boat, plus outriggers for spreading fishing lines.

Most Pursuit models have hardtop-mounted rod holders and outriggers made with stainless steel bases, full-motion crank control and carbon fibre poles.

Navigation Tech

Navigation is vital in any boat, but your sport fishing boat should be equipped with that extra layer of navigation to help you monitor what’s going on under the water. Aboard a fishing boat, you’ll want a GPS chart plotter, sonar transducer or fish finder, VHF radio, marine radar and more.

Each and every Pursuit sport fishing model is equipped with a Garmin® Electronics Package. Top of the line navigation equipment will allow you to see where you’re going in any condition while pursuing your next catch with ease.

Finding a Sport Fishing Boat in Victoria

If you’re looking for a sport fishing boat, it’s hard to beat the innovation and excellence of a Pursuit, with 70 years of hand-built history. To find a Pursuit boat or any other make, contact our yacht broker at Van Isle Marina, who can help with buying, selling and trading.

Alternatively, browse our collection of new and pre-owned boats on our website.

Contact us to learn more or pay us a visit in Sidney at any time.

If you’re considering a stop on Vancouver Island this summer cruising season, Sidney should be at the top of your list. Known as “Sidney by the Sea”, Sidney is a uniquely charming small town on the Saanich Peninsula. The town itself is highly walkable, filled with an impressive concentration of bookshops, cute cafés, art galleries and restaurants, plus Sidney is positioned as the Island’s hub for boating.

This article details what makes Sidney, BC, the ideal summer cruising spot:

Gateway to the Gulf and San Juan Islands

Sidney is known as Vancouver Island’s gateway to the Gulf and San Juan Islands – not to mention the mainland. A steady flow of boat and ferry traffic streams in and out of Sidney every day.

The geography of Sidney makes it the perfect jumping off point to access the beautiful Gulf Islands. Sidney is the northern most point of Greater Victoria, flanked by the Saanich Inlet to the west, the American San Juan Islands to the east and the Gulf Islands to the north. The route from Sidney to the Gulf Islands is smooth, thanks to protected waters and island formations – a stark contrast from the open swells of the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

The Gulf Islands are well-worth a visit. A peaceful archipelago hugging the coast of Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands are known for their mild climate, relaxed vibe, and supreme opportunities for outdoor adventure.

Salt Spring Island is among the most popular, along with being the largest Gulf Island and the closest one to Sidney. Salt Spring is also the busiest island, with a must-see farmers’ market and prime farm-to-table dining options.

Walkable Amenities in Town

If you want to stay in town and experience the charming Saanich Peninsula, Sidney is the perfect place to do so. The entire town of Sidney can be explored on foot, without the need for a vehicle.

Downtown Sidney is made up of a couple of main roads that take traffic from the highway straight to the sea, where a walkable pier provides a must-visit oceanfront experience. You can catch the fisherman at work, dip down to the beach, and stop for oceanside refreshments and dining.

In-land off the pier is the heart of downtown Sidney. The pedestrian-friendly streets are home to numerous bakeries, bookshops, breweries, restaurants, museums, thrift shops and art galleries. Read about more things to do in Sidney.

On either side of downtown Sidney, oceanfront residential communities sprawl among multiple parks and green spaces. An oceanfront pathway runs along the entire length of Sidney, if you’re up for a sunset stroll.

Access to Marine Services

Another reason why Sidney is a prime summer cruising spot is its access to marine services. Boaters will have everything they need here, thanks to a vibrant boating industry with several marinas, chandeliers, repair shops and other services.

If you’re looking for moorage and services at a marina near Sidney, consider stopping at Van Isle Marina. Here’s why boaters love Van Isle Marina, one of the largest full-service marinas in BC:

Fuel dock

Van Isle Marina is home to a massive full-service fuel dock, which pumps diesel and ethanol-free gasoline. With extended summertime hours from 8am-8pm, the fuel dock also offers holding tank pump-out services. If you’re out on the water, contact the fuel dock via VHF channel 66A.

Moorage experience

When you moor at Van Isle Marina, you’ll have access to a dedicated office check-in with concierge service. Our friendly deck crew will be happy to guide you into your slip.

At Van Isle Marina, all vessels under 75′ can be accommodated for stays of up to two weeks. If you contact us in advance, there is also moorage available for larger vessels or longer stays. If you’re interested in a longer monthly or annual stay, please contact us for more information.

Amenities

The amenities are second-to-none at Van Isle Marina. On the property you’ll find spa-like washrooms equipped with showers and laundry, high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the property, and a fully-renovated oceanfront restaurant called the West Coast Grill, which uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

The town of Sidney can be reached easily from the marina. We’ve got courtesy bikes available for your leisure, or you can choose to walk, bus or hire a car service to access the town.

Full-service marina

Along with a fuel dock and five star amenities, Van Isle is a full-service marina with on-site haul out services and yacht park facilities. If you need repairs, painting or cleaning done while you’re out and about, Van Isle Marina is the perfect place to do so.

The Harbour Road Marine hub is home to marine supply stores, boat repair, detailing and provisioning services all in one convenient location.

If you’re exploring the prospect of boat ownership or are curious about upgrading your vessel, Van Isle Marina is also home to a great lineup of new and used yachts. Browse our selection of boats for sale online or in person, and contact us today about moorage for your upcoming voyage.

Let’s look at the differences between anchoring, mooring, and docking. While they all refer to ways of securing your boat in place when necessary, these 3 nautical terms all mean something slightly different.

An essential part of learning how to navigate a new vessel is learning all the options you have for stopping your boat whenever the need arises, such as when you’re:

• Preparing for an overnight at sea
• Waiting for a storm to pass
• Stopping to cast a line
• Taking a swimming break
• Retiring the boat for the season
• Getting fueled up

To secure your yacht in place for any length of time, your choices include anchoring, mooring, or docking the boat. All these terms refer to securing your boat in position on the water – for hours, days, or months at a time.

Anchoring Your Boat

Anchoring your boat refers to dropping a large, heavy object that is attached to your boat into the water, where it latches itself to the seabed with hooks and suction to keep the boat in place. You can anchor your boat anywhere if you have an anchor cable (known as an anchor rode) that’s long enough.

The Golden Rule of Anchor Rode Length

To figure out how long your anchor rode should be, multiply the deepest water you might anchor in by eight.

Modern Yacht Anchoring Systems

Many modern motor yachts come with built-in anchoring systems. For example, like on most Pursuit sport yachts, the boats use an integrated anchoring system, gracefully added to the bow using a 10″ mooring cleat and a chain binder. Auto-anchoring systems can be operated from the helm as well as from a hand-held remote found in the anchor locker.

Having your yacht come with an anchoring station takes the guesswork out of which size and weight of anchor is best for your vessel, but there is a greater science behind anchoring that you’ll want to be aware of if you’re a new boat owner, especially if you’ll be anchoring in varying types of sea beds.

Choosing the Right Anchor for the Seabed

For additional anchoring security, many boaters carry two anchors of different styles – a fluke/Danforth style and a plow/scoop variety. The type of seabed you’re navigating, such as mud, grass, sand, coral, or rock, will determine which anchor is most suitable to use. Research your anchoring options before sailing too far from shore, and make sure you’re confident with how the process works.

Learn more about the different types of anchors.

Anchoring a boat is an essential boating skill. It all starts with choosing the correct anchor and a suitable location to anchor. Your depth charts will come in hand here, plus you’ll want to keep an eye on your swing radius and the location of nearby boats. Then you’re ready to drop your anchor – a careful procedure that requires attention to detail, precise measurements and awareness of incoming weather and tides. Read more about how to drop the anchor.

Mooring Your Boat

What is Mooring?

Mooring refers to lassoing, tethering, tying, or otherwise securing your boat to a fixed object, such as a mooring buoy, rather than dropping an anchor to secure your vessel anywhere you fancy. You can moor your boat to a mooring buoy, dock, quay, wharf, jetty, or pier.

If mooring at a dock or pier with other boats, there is a chance things will get crowded. However, you will always have your own strip of docking walkway for easy loading and unloading at Van Isle Marina.

Mooring your boat (sometimes called berthing) is done a few different ways and might take some trial and error until you perfect this skill. Mooring in a tight space amongst many other boaters proves to be intimidating for many new boaters.

At these types of mooring locations, there will most likely be the mooring anchor, mooring chain, and mooring buoy – all you need to supply is the line or the hook to help your boat attach to the mooring area.

Essential Mooring Equipment Explained

• mooring anchor – this is a regular anchor in a fixed position that keeps your boat steady while it is being moored. Use one that is three times the weight of your service anchor.
• mooring chain – this line connects the anchor to the floating buoy. We recommend three times the length of depth, and a quarter-inch larger than your service chain.
• mooring buoy – a floating device that connects to the anchor and marks the place where the boat is moored.

How to Secure Your Boat to a Mooring Buoy

If you find a vacant mooring anchor and buoy, simply pull up as close to it as possible and attach your line and mooring buoy accordingly – using your lasso technique or the boat hook. If the buoy is not public property, be prepared to vacate at short notice if the owner turns up. To tell if the buoy is strong enough to moor your yacht, consider the size of boats on similar buoys nearby and use your best judgment.

If you have enough hands on-deck, backing the boat up will likely get you close enough to the mooring point via the stern rather than the bow, making things a little simpler, depending on the shape of your boat.

The wind may be a fierce challenger as you attempt to moor your boat. If the wind is pushing you away from where you want to moor, approach at a steep angle (aim for 40-degrees), reverse the vessel to hold position then briefly drive the boat forward and turn the wheel away from the dock to swing in the stern. If the wind is pushing you into the dock, slow right down, put your fenders in place, and let the wind take you into the dock.

Be aware that simply tying your vessel is not the end of the mooring process. There is an entire checklist of procedures to run through before you complete the process and leave the boat. Lines need to be checked, unneeded electronics turned off, ignition switches locked, and more. Read our complete mooring checklist here: Boat Mooring Checklist & Techniques

Van Isle Marina offers moorage for boats of all sizes at competitive rates per square foot.

A Word on Rafting Up: Sometimes, you might come across boats that are tied together on the water. This is known as “rafting up” and is essentially a boat moored to another boat. It can come in handy when every other moorage station is full, in emergencies, or if you’re just looking to socialize with another boat on the water. If you’re looking to raft up with another boat, whether it’s moored already or you’re both out on the open sea, the proper etiquette is to ask first, and have your fenders in place and an anchor ready to drop.

Docking Your Boat

Docking your boat refers to pulling your vessel up to a dock as parallel as you can, and then using ropes (dock lines) and nautical knots to secure (fasten) the boat to the dock.

In addition to the docking line, to dock your boat safely, you’ll require four or more fenders – large plastic or rubber devices that act as a buffer between the boat and the dock or pier and other boats, protecting both from damage. Using a couple of large fenders close together at the front of your boat when coming into dock can act as a bumper, further protecting your yacht during this procedure.

When you’re docking a boat, the boat will be close enough for guests to easily disembark the vessel onto the dock (land). Docking usually means the length of your boat (bow and stern) will be secured to the dock, giving you a maximum amount of space for loading and unloading of supplies, as well as maintenance and cleanup of your vessel.

Docking is made easier when there is someone already on the dock to help you, and when the winds and the tide are cooperating. However, just like parallel parking a car, docking a boat gets easier and easier each time you do it.

Remember, there is no need to force a docking if it isn’t feeling right. Just like parking a car, sometimes it’s best to bail out, circle back and try again. There’s no shame in trying again – especially if you’re a new captain or one-person crew. At Van Isle Marina, our crew is always happy to lend a helping hand with catching lines.

For more info on docking, read our Simple Tips for Docking Your Boat Like a Pro.

Van Isle Marina in Sidney, BC is your go-to boat marina in the Pacific Northwest. We love to help fellow boaters just like us learn more about all the ins and outs of boating, including anchoring, mooring, and docking. If you’re interested in buying or selling a boat or moorage at our marina, give us a call or stop by to find out why so many people love to moor with us.

What people have to say about mooring with Van Isle Marina:

Impeccable facilities, moorage for 100’+ yachts down to small fishing boats, always helpful and alert staff, 24 hour video security, full service boatyard, large dry stowage yard, two sided fuel dock, Canada Customs dock, pumpout dock, laundry, showers and the best restaurant in town all located just 15 minutes from Victoria International Airport (YYJ) and on the door step to one of the best cruising grounds on Earth.  ~ EZBob Vincent

Great spot for moorage. Friendly staff, excellent facilities with updated docks.  ~ Scott Hutchinson

Understanding the True Cost of Boat Ownership From Maintenance to Operation

While it’s tempting to look at the sticker price of a boat for sale and get caught up in the dream, we always caution our customers on the additional costs of boat ownership they need to consider. After all, it’s easy to underestimate what it takes to own a boat, which is why our yacht sales team always take new boat owners through all the costs that may arise.

Our sales team wants our customers to love their boats wholeheartedly and feel excited every time they are out on the water – not struggle to make payments and end up experiencing buyer’s remorse.

Keeping the following costs in mind while shopping for your first boat is strongly recommended in order to stay comfortably within your budget.

1. Fuel and Other Operating Costs

Operating costs vary a lot based on the type of boat. For example, the cost of fuel will naturally vary according to the age, size, and style of your boat (sport vs day cruiser; motor yacht vs sailboat, etc). You can burn more fuel at a higher cruising speed. At the pump, the cost will fluctuate depending what kind of gas your boat requires and where in the world you are. As of late-2025 in Victoria, marine gasoline is priced just under $2 per litre while marine diesel hovers around $2 per litre.

There are also expenses associated with oil, batteries, pumps, lights, and specialized equipment and other rations that ultimately will need replenishing. These will all need to be budgeted for appropriately.

Fuel and operating costs are never an exact science, but your yacht sales team and experienced boater family and friends will happily share some insights with you and can assist you in knowing what to budget for these items.

2. Boat Insurance

The cost to insure your boat against damages will depend on things like the size and age of the boat, where it will be docked, the types of activities it will be used for, and other factors. On top of insurance for your actual vessel, you might also be required to have liability insurance and damage coverage.

Insurance costs can certainly add up, making them one of the highest costs of boat ownership, but like all insurances, it’s a necessary evil if you want to moor your boat anywhere. At Van Isle Marina, we can refer you to some excellent insurance brokers who can assist you.

As a general guideline, expect insurance to cost about 1.5% of the boat’s total value. But again, there are several factors that could swing that figure in either direction.

3. Moorage and Storage

Mooring a boat at a marina or storing your boat on land in a storage facility will come with various costs that differ a lot among marinas and facilities. For example, a secure storage facility might cost considerably less overall than mooring your boat in the water at a municipal marina, private marina, or exclusive yacht club. These costs can range from a hundred dollars to a thousand dollars (or more) per month.

Fees are often calculated per foot of your vessel, and paid for monthly or annually. Discuss with your yacht sales team where you will be storing your new boat, specifically mentioning whether it will be stored in water or on land, as this cost will definitely affect how much boat you can afford. See Van Isle Marina’s moorage rates to get an idea of what moorage and storage could cost you.

In addition to the moorage fee, some marinas may also charge for things like live aboard fees, optional car parking, and utility fees for electrical power and fresh water supplies.

4. Trailer

With most smaller boat purchases comes an inevitable trailer purchase. The trailer is a key component of boat ownership. At some point you’ll need one to haul your boat in and out of the water.

Sometimes the trailer you’ll use to haul your boat is an entirely separate purchase, while sometimes it’s included in the price of the boat you’re buying. Whatever the case may be, you’ll need to do more than just consider the outright purchase of the trailer – there are the additional maintenance costs of the trailer, with tires and brakes being the two biggest ticket items, on top of insurance and any potential storage costs if you cannot keep the trailer on your property.

5. Boat Maintenance and Repairs

It’s common to hear from boat owners that boat maintenance costs are approximately 5-10% of the value of the boat per year. However, it’s tough to go off of such a percentage. There are so many factors that affect a boat’s maintenance cost and schedule, with the obvious ones being how often it is used, and in what weather conditions.

Things that need maintaining are waxing and painting of the hull and engine tune-ups, while things that might need frequent repair are plumbing and electrical issues – again, it all depends on the age of your vessel, your make and model, and how much sweat equity you’re able to contribute.

>> Learn more about our boat maintenance services at Van Isle Marina.

>> Read our Boat Maintenance Checklist.

6. Equipment & Accessories

You’ll need to outfit your new boat with all the essential elements that are required for a day out on the water. Some items are required, like lifejackets, fire extinguisher, distress signals, flashlight and first aid supplies, while others will contribute to a more comfortable boating experience. Some of these are relatively minor one-time expenses, but they all contribute to your overall cost of owning a boat. Read the full boating equipment checklist.

If you’re departing for at least a couple nights or more, there are number of things to make sure you’ve got stocked onboard.

• Cleaning supplies and towels
• Fishing tackle and other gear
• Water sports gear
• Kitchen essentials like flatware, plates and bowls, cutting board, bottle opener, peeler, cookware, measuring cups, containers and much more

7. Extras & Add-ons

Just like brand new cars, boats can come standard (factory built) or come with several optional add-ons to enhance the experience of the ride. Your desire and ability to opt for these extras will depend on your budget and how much you are willing to invest.

Be prepared for the ticket price of your desired model to go up when you factor in your desired extras. This could include things like upgraded upholstery packages, sportfishing packages, GPS systems, anchoring system, laundry rooms, engine power, and the list goes on. You name it, there is probably an upgrade for it in the boating world!

8. Warranties & Interest

There might be the option to purchase extended warranties on some new models. Study these closely and be sure you understand what is already covered by the limited warranty, and what the extension of the extended warranty will cover. These warranties can range from engine-only coverage all the way to comprehensive coverage that costs thousands of dollars. The cost of warranty depends greatly on not only the type of coverage you’re after, but the boat’s value, engine, and homebase location.

If you’ll be financing your new boat, the amount of interest you’ll pay over time should also be considered an additional cost of boat ownership. These rates will vary depending on the lender and the borrower’s credit history.

9. Certification & Registration

If you’re brand new to boating, there is a mandatory boating safety course to take in order to get your Pleasure Craft Operator Card. This costs between $40-$70 in BC. If you have a VHF marine radio on board, one person on board must also carry a Restricted Operator Certificate (Maritime). This certification typically costs $200-$300, and up to $700 for commercial versions. These are not overly expensive to obtain, but they are costs associated with boat ownership, nonetheless. If you want to take it a step further, registering your boat (for a fee) is yet another option.

>>Read more about the documentation you need to operate a boat.

10. Depreciation

Some boats hold their value more than others, which, in a roundabout way, can be considered a cost of boat ownership. When you go to sell your new boat to move on to something you like better, be prepared for some depreciation if you’re the original owner of the boat you’re selling. A yacht sales team can advise you on any particular model’s potential resale value if depreciation is a concern to you.

See our post on buying a pre-owned yacht for more tips on budgeting for as much yacht as you can afford. We can help you find something within reach!

At Van Isle Marina, our yacht sales team want you to feel comfortable and understand all aspects of the yachting lifestyle, including the costs. We are standing by, ready to help you navigate the experience of buying your first boat. Learn more about our sales process and how you can apply online for financing. We look forward to helping you find and afford the boat of your dreams!