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Mercury Marine Report

Boat on the waterBoat on the water

Those who have decided to buy a boat for the first time will find it’s often a lifestyle-changing experience. To make sure the first year is one of fun, discovery and bonding with the family, new boaters need to make sure they understand all the costs associated with boat ownership. Underestimating the expenses can create a financial burden that can stand in the way of taking advantage of the best boating has to offer. Purchasing a boat through a reputable dealer is a good idea for new boaters. A dealer can help find a boat within your budget that’s a perfect lifestyle match, and can help create a plan to meet the upcoming year’s expenses.

Here’s a look at some of the initial costs.

Essential Purchases

Every boat needs to be equipped with the gear that’s required by the U.S. Coast Guard. Be sure to also check state and local regulations where you plan to boat, as there might be additional requirements.

Mercury Report

While many first-time boat buyers start by researching their new-boat purchase online, working with a dealer can be a crucial part of the process. In addition to seeing the features and amenities of the boat models on your list in person at the dealership, having a dialogue with your dealer can help to make sure you purchase the right boat to fulfill your needs.

According to Joseph Smith, director of sales and finance at Berkeley Outdoors, a Mercury Authorized Dealer in Moncks Corner, South Carolina, an experienced boat dealer will start by asking you a series of questions.

“They will ask, ‘How often will you use the boat?’ ‘What body of water will you be using it on?’ ‘Will you be using it for fishing, or taking the family out, or both?’” Smith said. Your answers to these questions can help the salesperson to narrow down the list of boat models that are right for you.

Lowrance Report

Lowrance Electronics and the White River Marine Group (Tracker, Nitro , Triton , and Ranger Boats have increased their partnership that will see even more Lowrance products as standard.

“We are excited to be renewing and expanding our partnership with White River Marine Group, and to be able to offer increased product choices to anglers -- both as standard and upgrade options, including our award-winning Ghost™ trolling motor,” said Lucas Steward, Executive Vice President of Lowrance.

The 2022 model year of Nitro “Pro”, Triton “Patriot”, and Ranger “Cup” models will be rigged with the latest, high-end sonar technology from Lowrance.