If you’re someone who loves spending beautiful afternoons out on the water in a boat, you’re not alone. Millions of people feel the same way and with good reason. There’s just something about the combination of water, sunshine, fresh air, and the application of good old-fashioned boating skills that brings out the best in people.
That said, it’s easy to see why the idea of boat ownership is such a sweet dream for so many boat lovers. However, it’s also one dream that’s not as out of reach as you might think. You don’t need to be a millionaire to buy, own, and enjoy your own boat.
There are plenty of incredible boats for sale under $20,000 out there. You just need to know where to look and how to go about finding the right option for you.
How to Buy a Boat as a First-Time Buyer
Regardless of your budget, the process of buying your first boat starts long before you actually start shopping in earnest. Which approaches are best can also vary according to what type of boat you’re looking for. Here are some basic tips to keep in mind.
Know what you’re looking for
If you’re ready to start thinking about buying your first boat, then you likely already have visions dancing in your head of how you’d use it. Are you a fisherman, a pleasure cruiser, or an adventurer? Is boating something you do with lots of friends and family along for the ride, or are you more of a lone boater?
You’ll also need to decide whether you want to buy new or used. But if you’re on a budget, know that shopping used boats for sale is a great way to get a genuinely amazing boat without breaking the bank.
Know where to shop
Although you’ll find there are lots of ways to shop boats for sale under $20,000 as a first-timer, some are definitely better bets than others. Stay away from open marketplaces without much quality control where anyone can post anything for sale (like Craigslist, to name just one).
If you feel you need help spotting the right boat for you, you can work with a broker to peruse your options. You can also shop used boats for sale via a top-tier platform like Boatzon where you can safely and securely complete every step of the shopping and buying process, all in one place.
Choose your boat wisely
The key to getting a great boat on a tight budget is to know which features you absolutely need and which you don’t. Lots of boats come equipped with tons of extras you likely won’t ever use, so it’s important to understand your needs.
And be sure to go over all specs, photos, and resources provided with a boat listing before considering it further. Compare it to similar boats to make sure you’re getting the most possible bang for your buck. If possible, visit the boat in person or test drive it.
Make sure you trust the dealer or platform where you’re shopping, as well. Always stick to reputable, trusted options like Boatzon to ensure an honest shopping experience and safe purchases every time.
Amazing Boats for Sale Under $20,000
Want a closer look at some of the coolest, most affordable boats out there on the market right now? The following are some great options to consider, each coming in under $20,000 as far as price, especially if you buy pre-owned.
Mako Pro Skiff 15 CC
If you’re a diehard ocean lover who can’t get enough of saltwater boating and fishing, then the Mako Pro is a solid option to consider, as it has a starting price of under $15,000. Durable upholstery, tough-as-nails composite construction, a powerful 40 ELPT engine, and a one-piece deck liner ensure it’s up for anything you are.
It also comes equipped with features like a below-console storage compartment, mounting options for all your electronics, and an anchor locker to make it easy to bring as much equipment with you as you need.
Sun Tracker Party Barge 18 DLX
Are you a social boater who likes boating best when your friends and loved ones are along for the ride? The Sun Tracker Party Barge 18 DLX comes complete with the space and roominess you need for the right price – just over $17,000.
Port and starboard bow lounges let everyone on board relax and enjoy the ride to the fullest, while multi-chambered pontoons guarantee a comfortable, smooth riding experience for all. A nice, spacious swim platform makes it super-easy to get into and out of the water, and there’s plenty of storage for all the drinks, equipment, and other items you want to bring.
Bayliner 160 Bowrider
This is another incredible option for families or boat enthusiasts who love sharing their water experiences with friends. Features like an onboard stereo, ample storage space, and convenient Bimini covers make it easy to keep everyone comfy, even during longer excursions.
The Bayliner 160 Bowrider’s performance is super reliable, too. And there’s even a tow pylon available as an add-on if you or anyone you boat with wants to try their hand at waterskiing. At around $16,500, this boat is a great deal for any first-time buyer looking for a bargain.
Carolina Skiff JVX 18 CC
If you’ve got your heart set on a fantastic fishing boat and are looking for a high-performance option that won’t blow your budget, then the Carolina Skiff JVX totally deserves your attention. (Go for an option with a smaller outboard, and you can absolutely keep the final price tag under the $20,000 mark.)
The design of the Carolina keeps things simple with a modest foredeck and aft deck, each equipped with ample storage compartments to stow anything you need. A helm deck and console complete the picture. This is also a sensible boat that’s known for retaining its value over the years, so it’s one of the smarter budget boat purchases you could make.
Tahoe T16
Dreaming about a barge that’s relatively lightweight and easy to tow, even with a smaller vehicle? At just under $16,000, the Tahoe T16 delivers without forcing you over your price limit. However, it doesn’t cut corners when it comes to comfort, storage, or accessibility.
A feather-light construction lets your Tahoe skip and race across the water with the greatest of ease. Meanwhile, a telescoping ladder ensures the water is easily accessible at all times – perfect for swimming and water sports.
Again, the secret to scoring incredible boats for sale under $20,000 is all about sticking to just the features and accessories you need, so decide what’s essential and what’s not before starting the shopping process. (Focus on reliability and functionality over bells and whistles.)
Choosing the right avenue for buying your first boat is also a big game-changer. Boatzon is one of the nation’s largest online boating dealerships, so it’s an excellent place to find exactly what you’re looking for at price points to fit any budget. Browse your options, check out specs, comparison shop, and even pre-qualify for financing all in one convenient place.
Then, once you’ve fallen madly in love with your dream boat, you can even schedule an appointment to see your boat in person or complete your purchase on Boatzon. How easy is that? Come find the perfect boat for you today, and embrace your next big adventure. You’ll be glad you did.
