Maintaining good mental health has been a key focus of governments throughout the pandemic and as Darren Vaux, President of the BIA mentioned in a statement recently, being around or on the water is good for the mind. But both using a boat for recreation and purchasing a new boat has presented difficulties for many over the past two years. Difficulties which no doubt can lead to significant frustrations. Industry and other stakeholders including marine finance lenders including Jade Boat Loans, are providing support and assistance to address these issues in a number of ways.
In calling for recreational boating to be permitted under health and lockdown orders, in a statement posted on 10 September, Mr Vaux notes that boating reduces stress and creates connections. Clearly stating that boating is good for you.
Mr Vaux acknowledges that society will have to live with COVID-safe practices and restrictions in order to minimise the spread of the virus but notes that being on the water can be seen as a safe place. The statement lists a number of reasons why recreational boating should be permitted under suitable guidelines, The BIA is calling for boating to be part of easing of restrictions across the country. All boat owners and the marine industry in general will no doubt appreciate the efforts of the industry association in lobbying governments so they can get back on the water asap.
While boat owners face varying restrictions in regard to the use of the boat according to their jurisdiction, those looking to purchase a new boat have additional headaches. The cancellation of many major boat shows has significantly limited the opportunities for marine manufacturers and dealers to showcase their models. Under some lockdown restrictions, going out to inspect and buy a boat may not be seen as essential purchasing. As boating enthusiasts will no doubt agree, buying that new boat can be a major uplift to the spirits.
For those seeking to overcome the frustrations of restrictions to in-person boat buying, why not consider click ‘n collect. While the concept is typically associated with grocery and retail purchases, essentially it is available for boat buyers. Both boat purchases and sourcing finance can be achieved in a contactless manner through the right sources.
Buying New Boats Online
While many boat dealers, agents and manufacturers already offered comprehensive and impressive websites pre-pandemic, like many industries across Australia, the sector had to pivot and adapt to the changed conditions in 2020. The resources available online for new boat buyers are extensive. Websites typically list specs, features, floorplans and inclusions and many also provide 360 degree views and videos of the vessels, both on shore and in cruise mode.
These resources provide buyers with a wealth of information from which to make buying decisions if an in-person inspection is not possible. As with any online purchase, always follow the e-safety protocols and procedures as advised by authorities. Many authorised boat dealers and agents will be members of the BIA and credentials can be checked through a range of channels.
When using Jade Boat Loans to source your boat loan, our consultants will liaise with the dealer to arrange settlement to save you that step of the process. If you’re a first-time buyer and not sure of where to start looking for specific outlets, referring to a platform such as www.boatsales.com.au and reviewing the NEW boats section will give you some ideas.
Buying Used Boats Online
Purchasing a second hand boat online can involve more scrutiny than when buying a brand new vessel. The consumer watchdog, ACCC, has recently issued multiple alerts for scams and frauds targeting boats, cars and caravan online sales. Some of these involve the goods not even existing while others will be pure fraud. Checking the latest advisements on Scamwatch is highly recommended.
Strict due diligence is required to ensure the credentials of both the seller and the boat are as advertised. If buying through a recognised marine dealer these credentials can be checked more easily than for private sellers. Consumer rights can be checked with your state’s consumer affairs department.
Always be mindful that online sellers will present the best photos of the goods they are selling. You can request additional photos or close-ups if you can’t see enough detail. And with all online purchases, if in doubt leave it out! Either postpone your purchase until you can inspect the boat in person or look for a highly reputable seller.
Our lending services include checking if a boat is under finance and other details through boat registration records which can be extremely helpful for our customers.
Utilising Boat Broker Services
If the process of buying online or click ‘n collect seems overwhelming, why not consider using the services of a professional boat brokers. These professionals provide can provide a great service to source boats that meet buyer specifications.
Simply provide the broker with your brief and they can use their extensive resources to source the boat that meets your specs. Brokers should be registered and many are members of the BIA so you can check credential
Sourcing Marine Finance
You could say we’ve been operating on a click ‘n collect basis for over 20 years with our online boat loan services. Our entire marine lending service is carried out via online, phone and email channels so customers can source their cheap boat loans without leaving home.
Use our online calculators, request a quote online, apply for a loan online or over phone. Plus our services can greatly reduce the stress and hassle of sourcing finance as we handle the entire process for our customers.
So don’t let the frustrations and disappointments presented by the pandemic prevent you from securing the boat of your dreams. Simply take advantage of the all the online resources available to you.
Contact Jade Boat Loans on 1300 000 003 to source your boat finance in a contactless, online manner
DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION AND SPECIFIC DETAILS CONTAINED IN THE CONTENT OF THIS ARTICLE HAVE BEEN PREPARED AND ARE PRESENTED PURELY AS GENERAL INFORMATION AND NOT INTENDED AS THE ONLY SOURCE OF FINANCIAL ADVICE FOR BOAT BUYERS AND LOAN BORROWERS. FOR THOSE THAT CONSIDER THEY REQUIRE SPECIFIC ADVICE, THEY SHOULD CONSULT WITH A FINANCIAL ADVISOR. LIABILITY IS NOT ACCEPTED IN REGARD TO ERRORS AND MISPRESENTED DATA AND DETAILS HEREIN.
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