BUYING A DINGHY - what to look for?
When it comes time for you to buy your dinghy it is very important to know what you are going to use it for. Is the dinghy only going to be used to get you and the family to and fro from the larger boat? Or do you have other uses for the dinghy?
Once you are clear what the dinghy is going to be used for each time, then start looking. The most important factors to consider are the price, condition, weight , transpotation, material and aesthetics. Lets start with the price. How much do you really want to pay? Do you need to have a brand new dinghy? If not then the cost should be considerably less than the price of a new one. When looking around the adverts make a note of the prices of dinghies that you consider about right for your needs.
This brings us onto the second point, condition. Obviously the newer the dinghy the better the condition, whether it is a solid dinghy or an inflatable. Examine the boat from stem to stern, either in person or if this is not possible ask for loads of photos of the dinghy. Also ask if there are any areas of damage, and if there is any, how bad is it? Most dinghies should be easily carried by two adults, so the weight shouls be reasonable. A heavy wooden or fibreglass dinghy may need to be transported using a trailer. This will add to the cost. Whereas a lighter dinghy could be lifted onto a car top with roof rack/bars.
The materials used for the construction is an important consideration. Is it fairly maintenance free i.e. fibreglass, neoprene (inflatable) or aluminium. Or will it need frequent up keep with varnish and/or painting. Some people are prepared to do this maintenance in order to have a good looking dinghy.
The aesthetics of your dinghy is important. Everyone can take pride in their boat and dinghy so how it looks often has an effect on how much enjoyment you get out of using your boat and dinghy. All these factors should be considered when buying a dinghy and I hope you will think about these and now know what to look for before you purchase.