How to buy a boat

Our magnificent coastline and inland waters present a great opportunity for getting afloat. Many people are unsure, however, of how to get on the water and in what type of vessel. Ronan Beirne of Leinster Boats offers seven practical steps to those considering a leisure boat purchase

Ronan Beirne of Leinster Boats Pic: Maura Hickey

Getting started

The starting point is to book on a sailing or power boat course with a club or sailing school, and a list of such courses is available from Sailing Ireland (sailing.ie). Also, if you know someone who is involved in sailing or boating, ask them to bring you out for the experience.

Do your research

There are many sailing and boating magazines, and these will give you an idea on what ...