Issues around travel due to the COVID-19 pandemic are being credited with a surge in boat ownership. People looking at buying a boat as an alternative to overseas or even interstate travel. Boats of all types have been in high demand, with jet skis and PWCs high on the list in popularity. So much so that news was being reported of supply shortages of jet skis with a several month wait time for delivery at one stage.
Jet skis are a lot of fun as a recreational vessel and many models are being adapted for specific applications as fishing platforms for either one or two persons. Their versatile, easy to tow, relatively easy to store and require less maintenance than many other types of boats. At Jade Boat Loans we are definitely aware of the popularity of jet skis based on the number of jet ski loan applications we receive.
But in the wake of the supply reports, we thought we’d come up with some alternative types of vessels that potential jet ski buyers may like to consider.
Water Sports Boats
If you’re looking at boats to enjoy water sports then there are a number of upfronts to consider. Specifically what are your going to use the boat for, the method of propulsion, where you are going to use it, on what waterways and other factors.
Water sports generally refers to water skiing, wakeboarding and other tow sports. We’ll leave fishing out of the equation at this point but general boating fun with friends and family usually also suits water sport boats.
Wakeboard boats or wake boats and other tow boats are probably the logical first next best thing to a jet ski. They have the excitement factor, the performance, speed and the agility to derive a lot of fun.
Malibu Boats is the leading brand in this category and offer a fantastic range of models across their Response, Wakesetter and M-Series collections. Built in Australia at the company’s Albury factory, these boats are built for performance and definitely up the ante over a jet ski.
Many of Australia’s leading manufacturers of trailer boats also include models suited to water skiing in their line-ups so it’s worth looking across the market.
Compared with jet skis, this is a step-up in terms of towing, storage and other upkeep but could be worth considering. Head to our boat loan calculator to work up repayment estimates on different makes and models.
Inflatables and Ribs
Inflatables and RIBS (rigid inflatable boats) may be seen primarily for use as tenders for large cruisers and motor yachts. But there are many models on the market which are true performance boats in their own right and could make a great alternative to buying a jet ski.
Take the AB Inflatables collection for starters. The 2021 model of the AB Inflatables Alumina ALX 9.5 has the look and the cred to offer both convenient tender services and great fun on the water. It weighs around 160-180 kgs so transporting and launching as an independent boat rather than consideration purely as a tender sounds very doable.
Although small at just 2.9 metres, this little RIB has impressive features including a two seater helm, space for some fishing gear or ‘day on the water’ bits and pieces, maximum power of 20 HP and has the capacity to take 5 people. A great little machine for heading off to explore the harbour, access boat-only coves and bays, reach those special fishing spots and generally have some great boating fun.
While this model has an outboard engine, the company also produces jet-powered models, if you’re interested – just saying!
Another inflatable to check out is the 2021 Highfield Sport 330. At 11 foot and with a canopy option and capacity for five, this is another great little leisure fun boat.
Comparing Boat Repayments
If price is a decision-driver, use our boat loan calculator to work up repayment estimates on as many jet skis, PWCs and alternative boats as you like. Just enter the price of the boat in the loan amount, noting that no deposit boat loans are available for many boats and many buyers, the loan term you want, the cheap boating finance rates we’re offering and you’ll see the repayment estimate.
The calculator is free to use and there’s no obligation to proceed, so use it as often as you like.
Jet Ski and Boat Loan Options
In general terms, Secured Boat Loans for the purchase of a jet ski follow the same format as for loans for boats. The Secured Boat Loan is the most widely-used loan for all types of boats and is available at our Jade cheap boat loan interest rate.
So if you don’t want to wait around for stocks of hard to find jet skis to be replenished or perhaps a larger vessel might be more versatile for your life moving forward, it could be worth browsing further afield when looking at boats to buy.
Contact Jade Boat Loans on 1300 000 003 to discuss loans for all types of boats and personal watercraft.
DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION IN THIS ARTICLE IS PREPARED SOLELY FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES AND IS NOT INTENDED AS FINANCIAL ADVICE OR AS THE SOLE BASIS FOR MAKING FINANCIAL DECISIONS. THOSE REQUIRING ADVICE SHOULD CONSULT A FINANCIAL ADVISOR. NO LIABILITY IS ACCEPTED FOR ANY MISREPRESENTATIONS OF PRODUCTS, POLICIES AND INFORMATION OR ERRORS IN THE CONTENT AS REFERRED FROM OTHER SOURCES.
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