The Most Expensive Repairs for Your Boat

The old joke goes that "BOAT" means, "bust out another thousand.” This might be an overstatement, but maybe not. Here we check out all the parts of a boat where repairs that usually cost several thousand dollars:

The expense of replacing boat parts will differ widely depending on the type and size of the boat, materials that are used, and the desired impact of technology or luxury of the vessel. However, some common factors that can contribute to the cost of a boat include:

1. Engines: Obviously the engine is a crucial component of a boat -- both power cruisers and sailboats. The engine propels a vessel through the water. The kind, size and power of an engine can majorly impact on the cost of maintaining a boat. Larger and more powerful engines are typically more expensive to maintain or replace. Also, the newer the technologically of many advanced engines will also be more expensive to buy and maintain. You will notice that the condition of a boat's engine is crucial to the overall upkeep of a boat. And engines are usually one of the most expensive part of a boat. If you do not maintain a boat's engine, you can end up with an engine failure and require the full replacement of an engine.  

2. Hulls: The hull is the most significant part of the structure of a boat that supports the entire weight of the boat. Hulls are usually made of either fiberglass, steel, or wood (although this is less and less common). Hull cost will depend on the material it is made of, as well as the size and shape of the hull. In order to avoid the costly hull repairs, study the local navigational charts to avoid objects that can cause catastrophic damage the hull.  This can lead to a very expensive repairs or even loss of life. Also be careful docking so as to not hit the dock.

3. Sails: On sailboats, sails allow the vessel to harness the power of the wind to propel itself forward. Sails come in a variety of materials, including nylon, canvas, and high-tech synthetic fibers, including carbon. As such, the cost can vary widely depending on the composition, quality and size of the sails. Lightweight and aerodynamic racing sails, will be more expensive than sails used for casually cruising or leisurely sailing.

4. Electronics: Boats are outfitted with all sorts of electronic systems, including GPS, radar, and navigation equipment, which can be expensive to purchase, install, and maintain. Those don't even include the electrical and refrigeration systems that almost every boat has. The onboard systems may include sophisticated software and hardware, including chartplotters, fishfinders, and autopilot systems. All of which will significantly increase the cost of a boat and cost a lot to repair. Also, electronics often doesn’t last very long before it is obsolete and needs to be replaced, further costing money. 

5. Interior materials and design: Within the interior of a boat, there are furnishings, appliances, and other amenities, can also be a significant cost to repair. There really is no upper limit of expense with the more luxurious interiors and a higher quality level of finish. For instance, a yacht with a spacious and elegantly appointed main salon, complete with a fully equipped galley, comfortable seating, and state-of-the-art entertainment systems, will obviously be more expensive than a basic boat with more of a utilitarian interior.

Additional expenses for a boat may include other items such as rigging, mast, and the boat's anchor. The cost of buying or replacing these components depends on the size, materials used and the complexity of the boat. A large yacht with a specialized carbon fiber mast and high-tech rigging will be more expensive than a small wooden masted sailboat with simple rigging. When buying a boat, make a mental note of the little repairs that could cause major future expenses, and be sure to budget appropriately in the future.