When buying a used boat, one of the most important things to consider is how many hours are on the boat. Just like mileage in a car, higher hours mean the boat was used more, while very low hours might indicate it sat idle for long periods.
Average Hours Per Year
The average hours a recreational boat is used per year typically ranges between 50 and 100 hours. Boats in this range often indicate consistent use, which can be a good sign of proper care and regular maintenance. A boat that’s been used and maintained is often more reliable than one that’s barely been used and potentially neglected.
What Do Boat Hours Mean?
Boat hours refer to the number of hours the engine has been running. Just like mileage in a car, higher hours usually mean more wear and tear on the engine and other systems. Most boats have an hour meter on the dashboard to track this, or a mechanic can check the engine hours through diagnostics.
Understanding the hours gives you a starting point to evaluate the boat’s condition, but hours alone don’t tell the whole story. Maintenance history is just as, if not more, important than the total hours.
What Is Considered High Hours on a Boat?
What’s considered “high hours” varies depending on the type of boat and engine, but as a general rule, anything over 1,000 hours is considered high for a recreational boat. At this point, you’re likely approaching the need for a major engine overhaul, which can be expensive.
That said, with proper maintenance, some engines can last far beyond 1,000 hours—up to 3,000 or even 4,000 hours in some cases. The key is how well the boat has been taken care of over its lifetime.
Is Low Hours a Good Thing?
Surprisingly, low hours aren’t always a positive sign. Think of it like buying a car that’s been parked for extended periods, lack of use can lead to neglect and issues like dried seals, gummed-up fuel systems, and other maintenance challenges. A boat that’s been consistently used and maintained is often a better bet than one with low hours and an unknown service history.
Maintenance Matters More Than Hours
When comparing two used boats, maintenance should take priority over hours. For example, if you’re looking at one boat with 750 hours and another with 300 hours, and you know the 750-hour boat has been well-maintained, it’s the better choice. Regular oil changes, engine servicing, and proper storage can extend the life of a boat far beyond what the hour meter might suggest.
Buying a Boat From a Boat Club
Purchasing a used boat from a boat club like Freedom Boat Club can be an excellent way to find a deal. These boats typically have higher hours, but they are often very well maintained with detailed service records. The downside is that they may show more wear and tear, particularly on the upholstery and finishes, due to heavy usage.
In Northeast Florida, there’s a decent selection of used boat club boats for sale. While they’re not pristine, they can be a way to save some money.
Final Thoughts
The average boat logs between 50 and 100 hours per year, but this number varies widely based on how the boat is used, its location, and the owner’s lifestyle. While hours are a key factor when evaluating a used boat, they don’t tell the whole story. Maintenance history and overall condition are far more critical in determining the value and longevity of a vessel.