Your Destination for
All things Marine
Gator Tail Redfish Series Share
This surface drive boat will allow the angler to get in the shallow water where only few will dare follow. The boat can be configured in multiple...
Gator Tail Savage Series Share
With the growing demand for surface drives in the flooded timber we have been seeing our motors used more and more in these types of applications....
Gator Tail Extreme Series Share
This is the surface drive boat you have been waiting for. The stepped chine design allows for superior sharp turn handling combined with a dry ride...
Gator Tail Bowfish Series Share
Our bowfishing surface drive boats offer the comfort and versatility for the whole gang while still allowing the most avid hunter and fishermen to...
Gator Tail Extreme Mod-V Series Share
The Extreme Mod-V takes the shallow water performance on the Extreme and adds a V to the hull for more versatility. Pair the Extreme Mod-V with one of...
Gator Tail WorkBoat Series Share
Gator-Tail’s workboat series has provided customized workboats for the oilfield, commercial fishing and biologists to access shallow water areas to...
Gator Tail Savage Mid Deck Series Share
With the growing demand for surface drives in the flooded timber we have been seeing our motors used more and more in these types of applications....
Gator Tail XL Series Share
When you want more power, Gator-Tail’s got you covered! Our XL Series boats are outfitted with twin GatorTail engines to give you all the load...
Gator Tail Enforcement Series Share
Law enforcement, fire protection, wildlife agents, and rescue agencies have all enlisted the Enforcement Series boats as their newest partner to help...
Gator Tail GTR40XD-EFI Share
The GTR40XD is more than just a number. It combines the ergonomic handle, high heat reverse cover, and three-piece lower unit of the GTRXD with a new...
Gator Tail GTR40XD PRO Share
Gator Tail, the original belt-driven surface drive engine, is the one that changed the game. From a research project in college, this technological...
Gator Tail GTR35XD Share
Gator Tail, the original belt-driven surface drive engine, is the one that changed the game. From a research project in college, this technological...
Gator Tail GTR23M Share
GatorTail, the original belt-driven surface drive engine, is the one that changed the game. From a research project in college, this technological...
Buyer’s Guide to Boats and Pontoons
When you think about it, buying a boat is a little bit like getting married. After all, this is the commitment of a lifetime, and you want to feel confident you’re making the right decision! Fortunately, there are plenty of fish in the sea, and plenty of boats and pontoons to choose from here at Howell’s Marine Sales & Service. The following tips can help you narrow down the options and find your perfect match!
Choosing a Boat
What kinds of activities are you interested in? This should be your guiding question when choosing a boat. If catching fish is on the agenda, you should seek out a fishing boat, with features such as rod holders and livewells. If you want to pursue the excitement of watersports, you should look for a boat with a powerful engine that can reach high speeds. Meanwhile, if you are looking to host parties on the water, a spacious luxury boat will serve you best.
That being said, there’s no need to limit yourself. There are some boats that can cover all your bases! Pontoon boats, for example, are incredibly versatile. We are passionate about pontoon boats here at Howell’s Marine Sales & Service, and we recommend them to our customers who want to get a little bit of everything out of their boating experience.
Budgeting for a Boat
Of course, you can’t talk about buying a boat without discussing all the costs involved! The upfront cost of purchasing a boat can be pretty steep, but the long-term costs are even more important to consider. When budgeting for a boat, remember to account for all the expenses that are going to add up over time – such as fuel, maintenance, and insurance.
Generally speaking, it’s a good idea to set aside at least 10% of your boat’s total value each year for routine maintenance, and another 5% for any unexpected repairs. Meanwhile, you can expect to pay about 1.5% of the total value of your boat annually for insurance coverage.
If you have any questions about the boat buying process, you are always welcome to consult the sales team here at Howell’s Marine Sales & Service! We are always happy to assist. You can find us in Chatham, ON, near London.
This series is our most affordable surface drive boat. The open floor plan allows for complete flexibility of outdoor options when you pair it with...