[TDaly25]

The biggest benefit of owning is that you can sail on your own schedule and fish with whomever you choose to. The downsides are many. If keeping in a slip the fixed costs rise quickly. If keeping on a trailer, the inconvenience of trailering and launching will be an impediment to going out on those short magic hours trips you could easily partake in for less agony and less money. In addition to costs of operation and maintenance, also consider the time and effort of cleaning boat and flushing motor after each use. Also consider the practical limitations of the boat you are considering buying and to where and when you can motor. Also figure in costs of insurance for the boat and registration for both boat and trailer. Also figure in costs of winterization.

After getting rid of my Silverton 34' a few years back I've been recently thinking about getting another boat, though something more practical and efficient. I keep coming back to the ease and accessibility of charters and party boats and the total lack of any ancillary costs - and there will absolutely be some if you are a boat owner. Good luck with the decision!