Good advice. Two years ago, I purchased a 1987 47’ Marine Trader. The boat has good bones but most old boats need repairs and upgrades. I have spent over $40,000 already. It’s like Paul said, it’s about the adventure and memories, not the money. Paul provided me training on the 6 day delivery trip from Madisonville, La to Carrabelle, Fl. I was 73 years old at the time and took the leap into a big boat I knew nothing about. Paul provided a wealth of information on the trip. I have to admit that it was a little intimidating the first time I took the boat out without a captain. My wife and I just made a 3 day trip from Carrabelle to Shalimar recently. It was quite an adventure. Every time I take the boat out I gain a little more confidence. The boat has been therapeutic for my wife and I. We are both more active and enjoying the journey. I had rather burn out than fade out. Thanks Paul. No regrets!
What I find amazing is how some of these sellers are asking outrageous prices for pieces of junk. I’ve been in the Boating business for 40 years, and I am absolutely astounded at the amount of uninformed people coming along and paying ridiculous prices for boats that are absolutely not worth the asking price. It’s jaw dropping how uninformed this new generation of boat buyers are.
Thanks I appreciate the kind words, also thank you so much for watching the video it means a lot when someone takes there time to watch one. Need anything or make it too the Keys make sure you stop by and say high.
Just imagine how much money the owner can save by Fresh Water Flushing their heat exchangers each time they park the boat for any period. Getting the salt water out really makes those expensive coolers last a lot longer. You might want to do a video on that.👍
Great content and insights. Thx for sharing. Always an interesting conversation about where the tipping points are between budget & experiences as we enter the back half of life. And what defines a worth experience for each of us. For one it's $10k week at a resort, for another it could be the same $10k spent over 2 months traveling modestly across America (or wherever). Have a good trip with your son.
The sweet spot in any purchase decision for budget value shoppers is just beyond what the average person can afford and just under what someone with cash wants! I can see why less market interest in the ranger since this is usual a weekend or summer vacation type boat. At that price for a live aboard person it just does not make sense unless you will live on the loop. Excellent point how wages have not kept up with cost of living regarding your captain job.
Yes seems things are going into the toilet fast, but sometimes you just have to go for it. You can set on the sideline and wait it out if your young enough, but time not on anyone’s side 😂
With labor to install new unit is about what it cost depending on how far you take it. But at 200.00 an hour for labor now it adds up very quickly and fast
Other side of the coin is that as the economic turmoil increases, signs of a larger conflict in the Middle East, upcoming elections, dollar going in the toilet, high interest rates, makes for a advantageous situation for boat buyers with cash. For me this winter I feel will be a really good time to find the boat I’ve been looking for the past few years. We have sold most everything, waiting for the right buyer on my home, and I’ll retire to a full time liveaboard on the hook in the PNW, no marinas for me. Personally I feel very good about the market headed in my direction.
A good example of what you might be looking for is the 43’ Albin, that one is set up for serious off grid living. ☝️ good luck finding your boat brother
Paul, very informative vid as usual. Where do you think the market will be a year from now, assuming that WWIII doesn’t happen? I’m planning on retiring at the end of 2024, buying a boat in the 40 ft - 50ft range, and doing the Great Loop with my GF. I’m a lifelong boater, having owned several boats included power and sail, and am familiar with operating boats up to 65 feet. My biggest concern is when to pull the trigger and buy. Ideally, it would be within six months after retiring, do you think that is a reasonable time frame to find a gem? Thanks and keep up the great work. PS: I’ve been following your channel since almost the beginning and I have one question for you, when’s Tats coming back? 😆
Paul….I added a few more amens, and hallelujahs to my video on the same topic. Check it out. I am as frustrated if not more than you on this “boat value “ market. People need to wake up.
