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What you should know about boat maintenance costs before buying:

Dec. 3 2025 Buying Guide By River Valley Marine

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Before buying a boat, it's important to understand that maintenance costs and ongoing expenses can impact your overall ownership budget. Key points to consider: Costs can vary greatly depending on size, boat type, location, condition, usage and how much maintenance you are willing to do yourself.


Common expenses include routine engine maintenance, cleaning, winterization, repairs, storage/slip fees, fuel, insurance and possible towing/transportation costs.


1.    Routine Maintenance: Regular tasks include cleaning, oil changes, engine tune-ups, hull cleaning, waxing, and winterization. These are essential to avoiding bigger repair costs later.

  • Age and Condition: Older boats usually need more frequent and costly maintenance due to wear and tear on engines, hull, and electrical systems.

  • Environmental Impact: Your climate can affect your cost of ownership. For example, northerners must factor in winterization, whereas saltwater boats face more corrosion risks, increasing maintenance needs and costs compared to freshwater boats. 

2.    Unexpected Repairs: It’s a good idea to set aside a maintenance reserve fund to cover both expected upkeep and surprise issues, such as engine parts replacement, electrical upgrades, or propeller fixes.

3.    DIY vs. Professional Help: Doing routine maintenance yourself saves money, but professional services ensure expert care for complex tasks, which can prevent costly mistakes.

4.    Storage/Slip Fees: This expense is usually determined by the length of the boat. The longer the boat, the more you will pay. Smaller boats can sometimes fit in your garage, which can greatly reduce your expenses.  Larger boats typically require offsite storage.

5.    Time on the Water: The more you use your boat, the more you will spend on fuel, oil changes, etc.

6.    Insurance: Before you decide on a particular boat, it’s a good idea to contact your insurance agent for a quote.  Costs can vary greatly based on age, make, model, etc.

7.    Towing/Transportation: If the boat does not include a trailer, you will need to make arrangements for transportation. If it does have a trailer, do you have a vehicle that can tow it, or do you need to get access to a vehicle that can?


In summary, having an understanding of the costs associated with your boat type and usage will help you budget wisely and enjoy ownership without financial stress. Proper, timely maintenance not only protects your investment but also ensures safety and enjoyment on the water, while minimizing unwanted surprises. The knowledgeable team at River Valley Marine can help walk you through the costs of ownership, so you can make an informed decision.


Contact our service department or Request Service online!