Boating Lifestyle

While you’re comparing boats, don’t forget that the dealer you decide to do business with will have a huge impact on your boat-buying and ownership experience. Depending on your location, there might be only one who carries the model of boat you really want. However, if you’re torn between two or three models from different brands and different dealers, the quality of the dealership and its staff may well sway your decision.

 

Some points of comparison are relatively easy to figure out. For instance, if you are partial to an engine make, a dealer who services that engine might rank higher than another dealer — and we would advise selecting the boat based upon some local ability to get your boat serviced by factory-trained personnel. Other factors — such as customer service and commitment to the brand of boat you’d like to purchase, and more — can be harder to determine.

Here are some elements to look for at the dealership to identify dealers who are more likely to enhance your buying experience:

 

—Does the store staff seem happy? And do you like the staff? If you find that people in the store are attentive, engaging and genuinely happy to see you, it bodes well for the future. Plus, it’s always nice to work with people you like and, unlike a traditional retail interaction, a boat dealership is one business that you’ll likely develop an ongoing relationship with.

 

—Check it out on the internet. If the positive reports far outweigh the critical posts, it’s likely a good reflection of their overall customer service.

 

—Talk with existing customers and local boaters. Don’t be afraid to ask for references. You’d expect the same during a job interview. And if you have friends, neighbours or co-workers who have recently purchased a boat, see how they felt about their dealership experience.

 

—Is the staff prompt in returning phone calls and emails? A salesperson’s willingness to work with you by phone or email is a great timesaver and a positive sign for the future. Make sure to ask for an email confirmation of any agreements or details worked out by phone.

 

—Has the dealership been certified or received any industry awards or local community accolades? A Marine Industry Certified Dealership (MICD) has made a commitment to putting customers first.  If a dealership participates in the Marine Industry Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) program and has received CSI awards, it is a good sign that it has a culture of top-quality customer care. Boating Industry’s Top 100 dealer list includes some of the most customer-centric dealers in North America. Community involvement is also a sign the dealership has a customer-first organizational focus.

 

—Are the yard and showroom clean and organized? That is usually an attribute of a well-run organization and indicator how they’ll care for you and your boat after the sale.

 

—Talk to the service manager. Again you are looking for pleasant, helpful people and a relatively clean, organized shop. You want to know that your boat is in good hands when it comes time for maintenance.

 

—Does the service department hold manufacturer certifications? Many engine manufacturers offer certification programs designed to keep dealer-based mechanics up to date on the latest technology.

—Is the dealership conveniently located to where your boat will live? Choosing a dealer far from the location where you plan to keep your boat is a huge disadvantage. A good practice is to purchase your boat from the dealership you plan to have it serviced. It will be much more convenient and ensure you’ll get the high level of after-the-sale service you deserve. Additionally, a dealer who will come to your marina or dock to service and repair the boat in the water is an even greater benefit.