Controlling Costs…

Everything doesn’t have to be the Best.

There is hardly a boat buyer alive that does not start with a very specific budget. It may be three hundred thousand dollars or three million. Whatever the amount is, it is often a challenge to meet once the buyer’s wish list is complete. This is especially true for custom boats: big toy chests just waiting to be filled with really neat things. If you are facing the battle of the budget, here are some thoughts.

First, every production boat, even the best ones, has a person on the building team called a purchasing agent. That person, more than most, is charged with bringing the boat in at a given price. Along with others on the design team, they decide what parts, pieces, and equipment aboard must be the best, and for what elements "good" or even "adequate" may be acceptable. It is this constant balancing act that keeps boat prices in check.

Now consider the custom boat. Quality boat yards build in a level of quality and durability in structure and systems. The owner, however, is the final decision-maker. Not just a good boat, but the Best boat often becomes the goal. Then the owner goes to the boat shows where the best of everything is available to be admired and purchased. With each new decision, the cost of the boat often becomes more unreachable. If cost is an issue try this instead. Put your money into the basics: overall structure, big machinery and other items which cannot or probably will not be ever be replaced. Then demand a lesser standard for items that CAN be upgraded over time without affecting safety. Finally eliminate other items completely with provisions for easily adding them when the budget allows. Remember, getting the best boat over time still gets you the Best Boat.