Before you buy a Jetski or boat, you may find this section useful

Navigation is an important component of boating. It comes into play long before hitting the water, however. Finding your way through the challenges of buying a boat or Jet Ski also can be intimidating.

Even for first-timers, buying a boat or PWC is not as tricky as it might seem. The steps are almost exactly like those needed when buying a car, something almost every American adult has done.

Step 1: Wants and needs

A boat purchase is often a long-term commitment, so it's important to get started the right way - by figuring out what kind of Jet Ski you're going to buy by balancing your wants and needs.

Think about how you will use the PWC or Boat.

Will it be primarily for weekend family fun on big lakes? If so, a traditional 3-seater runabout - the family saloon of Jet Ski’s - maybe the best choice. They are versatile, and many models are available at various price points.

If you are looking for something for cruising with a lot of people, a deck boat might be the best option. Deck boats basically combine the sleek hull of a runabout with the large, open deck design of a pontoon boat. They are also pretty nice fishing platforms. Sounds somewhat like a minivan, doesn't it?

If you need lots of room but do not care much for speed, a pontoon boat may be the way to go.

Big cabin cruisers are the motorhomes of the water, getting you from point A to point B, and giving you a place to stay when you get there.

If you need speed but do not want size, a 2 seater personal watercraft might be the ticket.

If your want a more thrilling ride that is a little technical you might want to try a stand up Jet Ski.

Step 2: The Budget

Once you decide on the type of Jet Ski or boat you want and/or need, it is time to decide how much to spend.

The first consideration is the price of the boat or Ski itself. Like cars, two boats of similar size, shape and even engine power can be separated in cost by alot of money.

You do not have to spend much to get reasonably reliable on-water transportation, or you can spend a ton to get the ultimate in luxury and performance.

However, other costs must be considered. Insurance is an annual cost for example. Storing a boat or even jetski at a marina is another, sometimes significant, expense. Regular maintenance costs, as well as unexpected repairs, must be considered. Do not forget about accessories, such as electronic equipment, a trailor or a towing motor for example.

Finally, make sure your vehicle is capable of towing your boat or Jet Ski’s! Most cars from a 1.3 upwards would tow a standard jetski however.

Step 3: Research

Today a car buyer can find out anything about any car, thanks in large part to the Internet. The Internet is also a great way to research boats and Jet Ski’s.

All boat, jetski and engine makers have their own Web sites, although some are better than others. Many sites allow shoppers to "build" their own boat, down to color schemes and accessories.

Step 4: Sealing the deal

Once you find a boat or Jet Ski you want and can afford, it is time to close the deal.

Haggling about the price is usually part of the process. Because haggling is time-consuming, and time is precious during a boat show, many dealers try to avoid the step by offering boats and Personal Watercraft at special "boat show prices" from the start. They might not be willing to cut any more euros off the bottom line, but it doesn't hurt to ask, "Is that the best you can do?" at least once, or twice!

Be sure your deal is contingent on an on-water test drive at a later date if at all possible. Dealers are generally more than happy to agree, but private sellers are understandibly less willing due to time and effort.