This section directory features marine dealerships, brokers, and lenders offering financing programs for new and pre-owned watercraft. Marine loans differ from standard auto financing, often offering extended repayment terms up to 20 years for qualified buyers. Before applying, gather your recent tax documents, check your credit score, and ensure the vessel meets age restrictions set by marine lenders.
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Kirk Kirkland Yacht & Ship Brokerage Off The Hook Yacht Sales
56 Ashley Pointe Dr, Charleston, SC 29407-7553
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Longshore Boats
2650 Clements Ferry Rd, Charleston, SC 29492-7742
Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm, Sat 9am-4pm
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MarineMax Charleston
152 Sportsman Island Dr, Charleston, SC 29492-8021
Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-2pm
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Mid-Atlantic - South Carolina - Charleston
152 Sportsman Island Drive, Charleston, SC 29492
Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-2pm
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Boat Loan Match.com
6277 Carolina Commons Dr, Fort Mill, SC 29707-6001
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Boater's Secret Weapon
6277 Carolina Commons Dr, Fort Mill, SC 29707-6001
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MarineMax Greenville
14 Burty Rd, Greenville, SC 29605-4802
Tue-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-4pm
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Mid-Atlantic - South Carolina - Greenville
14 Burty Road, Greenville, SC 29605
Tue-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-4pm
Seneca 2
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WaterSports Central
466 W North 1st St, Seneca, SC 29678-3139
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Watersports Central Upstate
10126 Swansea Ln, Seneca, SC 29678-2961
Bluffton 1
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Longshore Boats Bluffton
52 Cecil Reynolds Dr, Bluffton, SC 29910-5109
Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm, Sat 9am-4pm
Clover 1
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MarineMax Lake Wylie
310 Blucher Cir, Clover, SC 29710-7082
Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 12-5pm
Lake Wylie 1
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Mid-Atlantic - South Carolina - Lake Wylie
310 Blucher Circle, Lake Wylie, SC 29710
Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 12-5pm
Manning 1
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Meares Marine
2058 Lakshore Dr, Manning, SC 29102
McClellanville 1
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Cape Romain Marine
10129 N US-17, McClellanville, SC 29458-9504
Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm, Sat 9am-Noon
Also in South Carolina
- New Boat Dealers76
- Boat Dealers with Service & Repair73
- Used Boat Dealers66
- Boat Dealers Offering Financing59
- Boat Dealers with a Parts Department50
- Boats for Sale and Marine Inventory32
- Boat Dealers Offering Marine Loans and Financing28
- Center Console Boats for Sale and Service21
- Boat Dealers with On-Site Storage15
- Boat Dealers Accepting Trade-Ins and Buyouts15
- New and Used Fishing Boats for Sale11
- Pontoon Boat Dealers9
- Boat Winterization and Shrink Wrap6
Good to know
What credit score is needed for a boat loan?
Most marine lenders require a minimum credit score of 660 for standard approval, while prime rates are typically reserved for scores of 720 and above. Applicants with credit scores between 600 and 650 may qualify through specialized lenders but should anticipate higher interest rates and down payments up to 20%. Lenders also evaluate your debt-to-income ratio, which ideally should remain under 45%.
What are standard interest rates and loan terms for boats?
Average marine loan interest rates generally fall between 7% and 12%, depending on creditworthiness, loan amount, and vessel age. Loan terms typically range from 10 to 15 years for amounts between $15,000 and $50,000, while loans over $100,000 can stretch to 20 years. Older vessels (over 10 to 15 years old) usually cap repayment terms at 5 to 7 years.
How much down payment is required for boat financing?
Standard down payment requirements range from 10% to 20% of the total purchase price, including sales tax and registration fees. High-value vessels over $100,000 or older pre-owned models frequently require a strict 15% to 20% down payment. Zero-down options exist primarily for well-qualified buyers with credit scores above 750 purchasing new models through manufacturer promotion programs.
How to register a boat?
Boat registration is handled by state natural resources or motor vehicle departments upon submitting proof of ownership, a bill of sale, and required registration fees. After processing, you will receive official registration numbers and validation decals to display on your hull. Marine agencies across South Carolina are available via BoatDealerAtlas with 15 local resources to guide your purchase.
How to get a boating license?
Obtaining a boating license generally requires completing an approved safe boating course online or in person, followed by passing a knowledge exam. Upon passing, state authorities issue a boater safety education card valid for life. Explore 15 marine services in South Carolina on BoatDealerAtlas for local safety course recommendations.