What To Look For
Thoroughly inspect the boat's hull all the way around to ensure it was well maintained. Areas with mismatched paint indicate that the boat could have been in an accident or damaged in some way. Also, tap on the hull every couple feet to ensure there are no hollow areas. Inspect the boat's propeller as well, since this is one of the key factors in regard to the boat's performance on the water. Avoid boats with propellers that look warped, cracked or otherwise ill-kept.
Inside the boat, check the floors to ensure they are sturdy. Get down on your hands and knees and look closely. Mildew is a strong sign that the wood is beginning to rot. In addition, check the hours on the boat (which is comparable to the mileage on an automobile). A boat with five hundred hours or more may require a lot of maintenance and upgrading later on.
Common Pitfalls
Many customers don't familiarize themselves with the history of the boat before purchasing it. Be sure to learn as much about the boat as possible by asking the current owners how the boat was stored and how much maintenance it required during their time with it. Boats that are kept in covered, climate-controlled environments tend to hold up longer than boats stored outdoors. In addition, temperamental boats that required lots of maintenance should be avoided.
Additionally, all boats should be taken for a test drive before they are purchased. Customers who fail to do this often discover problems later on they could not have assessed simply by looking at the boat. Be sure that the steering is responsive, the gears shift smoothly and the gauges are accurate.
Where To Buy
Customers can purchase a used wakeboard boat from a private individual seller, just like a used car, but the boat should be inspected by a professional before the transaction is finalized. Some of the more popular places where used wakeboard boats can be found include everyboat.com, supraboats.com and mastercraft.com.
Cost
Costs for a used wakeboarding boat in 2010 vary based on the condition, age, style, brand and size of the boat. However, customers can typically expect to see the following price ranges: on the lower end: $10,000 to $20,000; mid-range: $40,000 to $50,000; higher end: $70,000 to $80,000.
Accessories
Most wakeboard boats have stereo systems, but if music is important to you, check to see if the boat also has tower cans that can protect the speakers from the elements. Amplifiers for greater sound are available as well. Also, gear such as men's and women's bindings, handles, tubes, lifejackets, wakeskates, anchors and tube towing ropes are reasonably priced sporting accessories found on many wakeboard boats. In addition, sellers usually include a vinyl cover for the wakeboard boat itself, but cockpit covers are also handy for protection.
Insider Tips
When test driving a used wakeboard boat, be wary of excessive vibration. This could indicate a potentially bent propeller. Bring at least one other person on the test drive, as the additional weight could affect the boat's performance. Ensure that a mechanic thoroughly inspects the cables, belts, plugs and alternator before you purchase the boat.
