A cuddy cabin serves as a great small-family recreation, overnighter and fishing boat. They are a versatile boat because they are a combination of a cabin cruiser and a bowrider. Like bowriders, cuddy cabins can pull passengers for water sports activities like tubing and skiing and accommodate fishermen. Like cabin cruisers, cuddy cabins can provide interior areas to get out of the elements and offer storage space.
The cabin usually comes with some basic living amenities such as a small kitchen and a sleeping area which can be used for storage. Although a great boat for fishing, if you are interested in doing more than just fishing, then this could be the right style for you and your family.
They have become popular among boat owners and enthusiasts for a lot of reasons. Cuddy cabin boats are both sporty and luxurious, which allows everyone to make the most out of their time on the water.
Cuddy cabin’s range in size from about 20 feet to 30 feet in length.
As with any style of boat, cuddy cabin boats can vary wildly in price and prices will differ depending on style, size, age and condition.
Think about whether you are after a restoration project, something pristine or top of the range and think about where you plan to use it. Do a bit of research to get an idea of what the sort of fishing boat or cuddy cabin you are looking for may cost.
Buying a used boat can be a good idea for boaters with experience whereas new boaters might benefit from buying a new boat that comes with a manufacturer’s warranty. If considering a used boat, it is advisable to research the best used boat brands and models.
Using a good brokerage company when buying a fishing boat can have many advantages. They will have lots of experience, a variety of boats in one location and they can help to make it as stress free as possible.
Alternatively, you can buy through a private seller. You will always get more information on the true nature and quirks of a boat from the owner themselves and they are often more flexible.
This is one of the most important questions to ask when buying a boat for fishing. When searching for a fishing boat, you need to know exactly what features you are looking for. Is there enough space, storage etc. Is there an adequate number of rod holders? Is there a large enough casting deck? Do you need a livewell? Is there space to get shelter from the elements? Knowing exactly what you are looking for will help you greatly in finding the perfect fishing boat for you.
Like with any type of boat, the costs will vary from boater to boater and boat to boat but working out the average running costs of owning a boat and how you plan to use it is very important. A good way of doing this is to ask other boaters for their knowledge and experiences. Below is a list of some of the running costs that you will need to factor in when buying a fishing boat:
Mooring fees
Insurance
Boat maintenance
Fuel
Heating
There are currently two choices of engines for your fishing boat, that being either petrol or diesel, both of which have their good and bad points.
Boats with petrol engines tend to cost less to buy. This is because petrol engines are less fuel efficient than diesel engines and therefore cost more to run. Petrol engines generally cost more to maintain as more parts are required for each service (spark plugs, HT leads etc).
Diesel powered boats cost more to purchase as they are much more fuel efficient than petrol powered ones but will require less maintenance.
Generally speaking, petrol powered boats are also quicker than diesel ones, so this is another factor to consider when buying one. Weigh up all of the options and make the right choice for your situation but our advice is to always go for a diesel-powered boat.
When buying a second-hand boat, it is advisable to have a survey done by a qualified marine surveyor. They will advise on any faults on the hull and with the boat’s internal systems and highlight any issue the boat may have so you have peace of mind that you know exactly what you are buying.
Having the correct paperwork in place when you buy your boat is important. This includes ownership papers, insurance, boat safety certificate etc. Make sure you have all of these in place when you buy.