With millions of Australians in COVID-19 lockdown and under restrictions, it’s been quite a doom and gloom time across the country. While we fully appreciate the severity of the circumstances, we can all do with something positive to work towards and what better than the upcoming boating season. Why not take time out from the case numbers, exposure sites and dwelling on what you can’t do right now and think of what you could be doing come spring summer.
Specifically, buying a new boat, getting into your first boat and enjoying the pleasures of a boating lifestyle. Recent good rains in inland areas have many rivers and lakes which were previously in drought, now flowing with fish stocks returning. A scenario which could be ideal for upcoming fishing and boating trips.
The pandemic has caused a surge in boat ownership and possibly the latest outbreaks will have even more Aussies taking the plunge to get into this great recreation and leisure activity. Boats are available across a vast price range so there is likely to be a make and model to suit everyone and anyone. We cover off on what to buy and how to buy so you are ready to launch as soon as lockdown is lifted and the boating season is underway.
Boat Shows and Showcases: Finding Your Boat
Both Sydney and interstate boating enthusiasts were no doubt very much looking forward to the Sydney Festival of Boating this month. It was to present a great opportunity for buyers to get a look at some of the new models on the market and possibly make a show purchase. With that show cancelled due to COVID-19, buyers will need to seek out the individual manufacturers and dealers to make those purchases.
Following the success of the Sanctuary Cove Boat Festival in May, many manufacturers were planning to bring their new ranges to the Sydney show. Riviera were intending to showcase the new 50 and 64 Sports models; Horizon their new Skyline which actually missed its Sanctuary Cove debut and would no doubt be looking forward to Sydney; Sundance Marine had planned to show the Prestige 420S and 520F; and the Aussie favourite Quintrex recently unveiled some great new models. That’s just a minute mention of the many new vessels which are currently available on the Australian market.
Fortunately many dealers and makers provide informative websites so you can source a lot of detail and discuss deals from home. We encourage buyers to utilise the online resources to source the boats in their price range and see as many of the features as possibly online.
Victorians also had their boat show cancelled but the BIA is planning a showcase event later this year. To be known as Discover Boating Showcase, the event is due to be held in south-east Melbourne at the National Water Sports Centre on 9-10 October. A wide range of activities are planned and we will cover off on the detail as the date approaches.
For those in regional areas not subject to lockdowns, check the schedule of outdoor and leisure shows and expos which may still be running. Many of these also include boating and have trailer boats on display.
When your local health orders permit, head to your local boat dealer and check out the makes and models to make your purchase. But be warned, boat sales have soared over the past 12-18 months and many manufacturers are still getting back on top of production schedules. Waiting until the start of the boating season may mean having to wait for delivery of the boat of your dreams.
Boat Loan Options
While production schedules and possible delays with overseas supplies have the potential to cause delays in boat delivery, no such delays are involved in regard to boat loans and marine finance. Our Jade Boat Loans team is readily available to assist buyers of all types and sizes of boats to source a loan quote.
Marine loans are available for both private recreational boat buyers and for commercial marine business operators.
For private buyers, the Secured Boat Loan suits most new boats and most buyers. The loan format is straightforward, the structure is easy to understand and with our industry experience, the cheapest interest rates can be achieved.
- The boat is used as the security guarantee against the finance.
- Minimum $7,000 loans and no maximum loan amount, subject to lender requirements.
- Our cheap, fixed boat loans interest rate applies – refer to our Lender Interest Rate Comparison for our current low rate.
- Loan terms up to 7 years are achievable and fixed.
- Fixed repayments apply and additional payments are permitted with minimal break fees applicable when a loan is repaid prior to the end of the term.
- Boat only, boat and trailer, boat and motor, boat, motor and trailer loan packages available.
For buyers wanting to be well-prepared prior to speaking with a boat dealer, we provide pre-approved loans across our finance portfolio. This process is the same as when applying for a loan after committing to a purchase – quick, easy and individually negotiated by your Jade Boat Loans consultant.
So for now, escape the COVID mindset and start making plans and purchases to launch into the 2021/22 boating season.
Contact Jade Boat Loans on 1300 000 003 or online to discuss your boat loan requirements.
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.
