Boat loans that get you on the water sooner
Tinnies, bowriders, cruisers and jet skis: marine finance is specialised, so your broker goes straight to lenders who know boats.
- Free to compare
- A specialist partner broker, start to finish
- No credit score impact
Typical ranges only. Actual limits depend on the lender and your circumstances.
Example rate only: not a comparison rate, quote or offer of credit. Your rate depends on your credit profile, the lender and the asset. Excludes fees and charges.
How boat & marine loans work with us
Not every lender understands boats. Some cap terms at five years or refuse older vessels. The right lender can mean longer terms, lower repayments and smoother settlement.
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Your broker knows which lenders are active in marine finance, including private sales and older vessels, and can bundle the trailer and motor in.
- Trailer boats
- Jet skis and PWCs
- Cruisers and yachts
- Outboard motors
- Boat trailers
- Marine electronics
Longer terms
Some marine lenders offer terms well beyond seven years on larger vessels.
Package deals
Finance the boat, motor and trailer together in one loan.
Private sales
We handle PPSR checks and seller payment to simplify private purchases.
Survey guidance
Your broker explains whether larger or older boats need a marine survey.
Boat loan vs personal loan: which suits your boat?
A secured boat loan usually means a lower rate and possibly a longer term, but the boat must meet lender criteria like age limits. Unsecured loans are simpler but usually cost more; your broker compares both.
Read the full explanation
A secured boat loan uses the vessel as security, which usually means a lower rate than unsecured borrowing and, with some lenders, a longer term. To qualify, the boat generally needs to be identifiable and valued, with a hull identification number and registration where required, and lenders often set an age limit for the vessel at the end of the term. Larger or older boats may also need a survey before the lender will accept them as security.
An unsecured personal loan can be simpler for a small tinny, an older boat that falls outside a lender's age limits, or a purchase where you'd rather keep the boat unencumbered. There's no security to register, but rates are usually higher and terms shorter. For many trailer boats the secured option works out cheaper overall, but it depends on the boat, its age and your credit profile. Your broker can set out both so you can compare the total cost.
- First-time owners buying a trailer boat or tinny
- Families upgrading to a bowrider or half cabin
- Anglers adding a new outboard and electronics
- Experienced boaties stepping up to a cruiser or yacht
Pros and watch-outs
Pros
- Boat, motor and trailer financed together
- Longer terms may suit higher-value vessels
- Secured loans usually cost less than unsecured
- Keeps savings for gear, safety equipment and fuel
Watch-outs
- !Storage, servicing and fuel add up on top of repayments
- !Older boats may fall outside some lenders' age limits
- !Long terms add interest and can outlast your enthusiasm
Costs and fees to compare
The interest rate is only part of the cost. Ask your broker to show these side by side.
Marine survey
Larger or older vessels may need a survey, usually at your cost. It can also uncover problems.
Boat insurance
Comprehensive cover is typically required. Premiums depend on boat, storage and experience.
Mooring, marina or storage
Not a loan fee, but an ongoing cost that affects what repayment you can afford.
Establishment and account fees
Marine lenders may charge different fees to car lenders. Compare alongside the repayment.
Balloon and early payout
A balloon lowers repayments; early payout fees matter if upgrading within a few seasons.
Tips to strengthen your application
- 1Budget for running costs, not just repayments
- 2Have HIN, engine hours and service history ready
- 3Arrange a sea trial, and a survey for bigger boats
- 4Get insurance quotes early, especially for jet skis or performance boats
What you’ll need
What you’ll need
- Driver's licence or passport
- Two recent payslips, or tax returns if self-employed
- Last 90 days of bank statements
- Current debts and regular expenses
- Boat details: HIN, engine hours, year and price
What lenders look for
- 18+, Australian citizen or permanent resident (some lenders consider visa holders)
- Regular, provable income
- A credit history your broker can explain, blemishes included
- Repayments that comfortably fit your budget
First chat to funds in four steps
How it works in detail →- 1Tell us what you’re after
- 2Meet your broker
- 3Compare and choose
- 4We handle the rest
Boat & marine loans: common questions
How long can I borrow over?
It depends on the vessel and lender. Most trailer boats are financed over up to seven years, while some lenders offer longer terms for larger boats.
Do I need a marine survey?
Not usually for smaller trailer boats. For larger or older vessels, a lender may ask for a survey. Your broker will let you know early.
Can I finance a jet ski?
Yes. Personal watercraft are financed the same way as boats, including private sales.
Is the trailer included?
It can be. Most lenders are happy to include the trailer and motor when they are bought together.
How old can a boat be to get finance?
It depends on the lender. Many prefer the boat to be under a certain age by the end of the loan, while specialist marine lenders may consider older vessels in good condition. Your broker can check before you commit to a purchase.
Can I finance a boat for charter or business use?
Possibly, but it's a different product. If the boat will earn income, a business loan or chattel mortgage may suit, and lenders will want details of the operation. Speak to your accountant about any tax implications.
Do I need a boat licence to get a boat loan?
Lenders don't always ask, but you'll need the right licence to operate a powered boat in most states, and insurers may ask about your experience. It's worth sorting your licence before you buy.
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