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Tips for Buying a Quality Pre-owned Boat

With a short supply of available new boats, many boat buyers have turned to the pre-owned market in search of good values. There are always excellent buys available on the used boat market, but as the old saying goes, “you want to make sure you’re not just buying someone else’s problems. There are several important steps in the pre-owned boat buying process to ensure a satisfactory purchase.

First, ask important questions of the seller, whether you are purchasing from a dealer or an individual. How old is the boat? If you are financing, lenders as a general rule will not finance boats that are more than ten years old. How many hours are on the engine(s)? You don’t want too many (more than 50-60 hours per year in the Grand Lake market), but you don’t want too few hours, either. If a boat has not been used regularly, belts, hoses, and impellers may be dried and subject to cracking and breaking.

Check to see if a “clear title” to the boat is in hand and available for immediate transfer. If you are buying from a dealer, they will handle this for you and ensure that any and all liens on the boat have been paid. If you are buying from an individual, make sure you schedule a closing that ensures liens are paid and you are provided with lien releases and/or a clear, unencumbered title.

Find out if the boat has always been in fresh water. I’m not saying don’t buy a boat that has been in salt water, but they do not retain as much value because of the possibility of corrosion if they have not been diligently cared for. Find out if the boat is a one-owner boat. There are exceptions, of course, but generally, a boat has been better cared for if the seller purchased it as a new boat.

Once these key questions have been answered satisfactorily, you are ready to examine the vessel more closely in person. Don’t cut corners here. Examine the boat closely. If you are not familiar with the brand of boat, take a friend with you who is familiar. If you like the boat and are interested in buying it, I always recommend a thorough examination by a Certified Marine Surveyor. This will normally have to be done at your cost, but it can certainly be money well spent if something appears on a survey that makes you uncomfortable with the purchase. It also gives you the added benefit to know exactly what, if any, repairs need to be made.

If you don’t want to spend the money on a survey by a professional, here are some tips to make sure you cover all the bases on your own:

  • Check the general condition of exterior surfaces and upholstery. Gelcoat nicks can be repaired, generally at a reasonable price, and faded gelcoat can often be buffed & waxed back to a good look. Upholstery repairs or replacements can be expensive. Look closely.
  • Look for decay or rot. This can be difficult if you choose not to use a Certified Marine Surveyor because stringer or transom rot may not be immediately visible. If the boat is a stern drive or outboard, push up and down on the drives or motor. A “mushy” feel may indicate transom rot that warrants further investigation.
  • Inspect the engine bay. Is it clean and dry? Is there an indication of water or oil leaks? The condition of the engine bay is a good indicator of the overall care of the boat and its systems.
  • Start everything. Engines, generator, heat & air systems, depth finders, trim tabs, drive trims, lights, pumps, GPS and chart plotters, fish finders. Make sure everything works. If you are buying from a dealer, they will likely agree to ensure that all systems are operational at the time of purchase – but there will likely be no warranties on a pre-owned boat. If there are remaining warranties, check to see if they are transferable to you.
  • Double-check engine hours. Hour meters are not always trustworthy. Make your own decision, but it may be worth hiring a certified technician to hook up a computer to make sure the hour meters are correct. If the boat has multiple engines and there is a wide variance between hours on each engine, find out why.
  • Inspect the hull carefully. If the boat is not on a trailer or a lift with the hull totally visible, pay to have it hauled out of the water to examine closely for defects such as blisters, excessive fouling, broken trim tabs, etc.
  • If there is a trailer with the boat, make sure it is roadworthy. Check bearings and tires. Check to make sure the frame, axles, and springs are relatively free of rust or cracks.
  • Systems on a boat, including engines, are water cooled. Make sure water is discharged from the generator, engine(s), and heat & air systems when they are running.
  • Conduct a sea trial. Make sure the boat performs to your satisfaction. Does it shift smoothly? Does it turn easily? Does it accelerate satisfactorily?
  • Don’t be afraid to walk away. It is important to not fall in love with a boat’s appearance. Your enjoyment will come from how well the boat and onboard systems perform – not just how they look. If you feel uncomfortable or feel the boat is overpriced, look elsewhere.

If you are purchasing a new boat, these are all moot points. Warranties and dealer backing will ensure that everything is in excellent working order and that the boat performs in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications. But current market conditions may leave you waiting for weeks – even months – for delivery of your new boat if it is not in stock at the dealership. Used boats can be a great value…if you shop carefully and wisely.

Happy boating! I’ll see you on the water!

Escape The Ordinary This Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is this weekend, and it’s time to create your dream Valentine’s escape with the one you love. We have many resort recommendations for expressing how your feel about the special significant person in your life. And although it’s a little cool outside we still encourage you to experience the beautiful landscape of Shangri-La Resort. If you are thinking about taking this relationship to the next level on Valentine’s weekend we have a few favorite romantic spots to share.

  1. The Summit Restaurant at The Clubhouse

The Summit offers beautiful panoramic views of the Golf Course and Grand Lake, especially at Sunset. Our fireplace is a lovely place to share a bottle of champagne while listening to the talented Terry Jordan performing Love Songs at the Grand Piano. The Buffalo Bar overlooks Champions Golf Course and may, be the perfect location for that after-dinner dessert ring. Providing ambiance to any proposal The Summit is open to the public this year offering a special Valentine’s Dinner to compliment your evening February, 13th & 14th. For reservations call 918-257-7713.

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  1. The Resort Pool

It seems like an unlikely place this time of the year, but imagine giving your love a day at the Spa, with a relaxing massage followed by a romantic fire by the pool with champagne. We can make the Resort Pool very cozy creating an ambiance that will never be forgotten. Fire pits are on each day in the evenings with a heated cabana upon request, champagne, flowers, and sweet treats from our Pastry Chef. All of these arrangements can be made with the Concierge, Jason Morgan at the Hotel. 918-257-4204

  1. The Lighthouse

Our picturesque lake-shore offers some of the most dynamic sunsets in Oklahoma. The Light House – Located on the water adjacent to Eddy’s Lakeside Bar & Grill, provides a great view of the lake. We can provide a lakeside picnic at sunset or during the day, depending on the weather. Our “She Said Yes” package includes a blanket and pillows with a picnic for two, featuring Chef Julie sweet treats, champagne, and an array of fruits and cheeses. Photos can be taken upon request. For more information contact Concierge, Jason Morgan at 918-257-4204

  1. The Marina

Night-time is the right time to create a romantic scene. We have several really beautiful spots at Shangri-La Resort. If being on the water is more what you are looking for we have a cute little Ship Store lit up at night, which could be the backdrop for a romantic night for two aboard the Shangri-La Yacht. Cozy up on the yacht under the stars and propose to the one you love. Amenities can be provided to enhance this experience. Please contact Concierge, Jason Morgan for more information. Only available if booked in advance. 918-257-4204

  1. The Anchor

The Anchor is our newest special spot, with endless possibilities if your guy or girl is more of a sports nut than a romantic fool, this could be the place for you. We think Valentine Brunch at Doc’s and Fenway Park is the perfect duo; Who wouldn’t want to have the memory of “They proposed to me at Fenway Park”! Well mini Fenway, anyway….. We can set this scene up in the evening or daytime. Got a great idea of how this should go down? Let us know in advance and we will do our best to accommodate. For a more cozy spot, we have fire pits available on the veranda. Let’s not forget that the Super Bowl is February 13th and if you love the energy of a crowd, propose to her at the Anchor Sports Bar during the Super Bowl 56! Go Rams! For more information contact Concierge, Jason Morgan at 918-257-4204

Our romantic Shangri-La storyline would not be complete without the amazing Chef Julie. Her creations make any occasion a sweet memory.

Shangri-La Resort has something for everyone and although our reputation proceeds us as a summer golf resort, we truly are a year-round resort with offerings for every occasion. We would love for you to be our guest this Valentine’s Weekend. For booking your stay at Shangri-La Resort please call 918-257-4204 or go online at www.shangrilaok.com.

There is no such thing as an off-season at Shangri-La Resort

While many resorts in four-season climates experience a dramatic decline in available amenities during colder months of a so-called “off-season,” there is no off-season for fun at Shangri-La Resort.

Throughout the winter months, many outdoor activities remain available – guided fishing trips (crappie, bass, catfish, spoonbill), yacht charters, relaxing evenings by the fire pits, hot-tubbing, basketball, WIFFLE® ball, pickleball, tennis, and sunny afternoons of golf at dramatically reduced prices. We even offer enclosed golf carts for warmer rides between holes – or enclosed fishing boats available from some of our fishing guides.

But when the weather turns too chilly for those of us who are fair-weather outdoors enthusiasts, Shangri-La offers a wide variety of indoor activities. Our million-dollar arcade facility offers games for all ages and all skill levels, from traditional arcade games to Hologate virtual reality games and arenas. Our Trackman studio offers virtual reality golf on dozens of available courses throughout the United States and around the world – all from the comfort of our golf simulator bays. We even offer members the chance to participate in a Winter Golf League playing from the Trackman studios.

For hunters, sharpen your skills in our LaserShot shooting simulator bay. Pickleball and tennis players can play in our enclosed, heated dome at The Anchor Activity ParkDoc’s Bar & Grill, The Galley at The Anchor, the Summit Restaurant, and Buffalo Bar offer a variety of menu and beverage options. Start your day at The Monkey Grind, proudly serving Starbucks® coffees. If you get more serious about beverage options, try some of the dozens of available choices in our Whiskey Kitchen at Doc’s; and there is no better place to enjoy your favorite sporting events than the sports bar at The Anchor.

There are massages, manicures, pedicures, sauna, and steam options, as well as a variety of treatments at our full medical Spa at Shangri-Laand the adjacent fitness center offers an opportunity to stay in shape with state-of-the-art fitness equipment – or enjoy a swim at our indoor pool.

The Spa at Shangri-La
The Anchor

Organized activities include pool tournaments, trivia night competitions, CXC Aviator Flight Nights, and month-long Fastest Lap competitions on the same driving simulators used to train NASCAR and Formula One drivers.

Special events include Valentine packages and special dinners at both Doc’s Bar & Grill and The Summit Restaurant, Friday night Chef’s Specials and Friday night live entertainment weekly at Doc’s, as well as ultimate watch parties at The Anchor featuring giant video walls for sporting spectacles like the Winter Olympics, Super Bowl LVI, March Madness, The Masters, and the Kentucky Derby.

The Anchor outside at Night

Shangri-La has become a favorite winter getaway for family vacations, corporate retreats, training sessions, and conventions utilizing our 9,000 square feet of versatile meeting space as well as our optional team building and team bonding exercises utilizing our incredible team sports options at The Anchor.

The Anchor Arcade

We are proud to offer multiple options for enjoying the beauty of Grand Lake O’ The Cherokees in all four seasons of the year in northeastern Oklahoma.

The Racquet Club at Shangri-La

The Golf Shop, Racquet Club, Marina, and Anchor Activity Park are all open year-round, providing a variety of entertainment options. Join us anytime at Shangri-La Resort when you have the urge to Escape the Ordinary. Grand Lake isn’t just for summer anymore!

Anchors Aweigh

College Football Saturdays

We are beyond excited about the turnouts we have had every Saturday to watch the Sooners, Cowboys, & Razorbacks here at The Anchor! We believed, even before we opened, that this would be THE premier place to watch football in the region, and our fans deserve all the credit for packing the house and creating an atmosphere that rivals the excitement of being at the stadium. Did you see the video of the building exploding during Kennedy Brooks’ game-winning touchdown to give the Sooners the victory over Texas? It was electric! Don’t forget about our featured drink and food specials as well, and remember to use the hashtag #GameDayattheAnchor when you post all of your awesome pictures and videos!

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Progress on the Dome

Many of you have asked about when tennis and pickleball will be ready inside the big white dome covering courts T4 & T5 and the short answer is as soon as possible! Construction is continuing on the lighting daily, and thorough cleaning of the courts will commence prior to striping the lines for pickleball. We appreciate your patience as we move forward with the progress. We will certainly get the word out through all of our platforms as soon as the dome is playable. Any questions about tennis or pickleball can be relayed to Todd Kerr at todd.kerr@shangrilaok.com.

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Winter is Coming

Just because the weather turns mild doesn’t mean our activity level will. The Anchor was built to provide year-round fun to Shangri-La members, guests, and the general public. Be looking for our first seasonal activity calendar to hit our platforms by early November. It will be the “Anchor Activity Calendar – Winter Edition” and will feature events happening in December, January, and February, along with links to register for events and contact information for questions or suggestions. A winter golf league, CXC racing competition, pool & ping pong tournaments & more will be featured.

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Be sure to follow us on FacebookInstagram, & TikTok to stay up to date!

The Life of a Concierge at Shangri-La Resort

The Life of a Concierge
What do I do? Well, that’s a hard one to answer.


My job as the Concierge of Shangri-La Resort is to provide valuable and up-to-date information to help make your stay at the resort easy and memorable. We appreciate that you took your time to visit the Shangri-La Resort, so let me take my time to help you in any way possible.
The job of a Resort Concierge is very broad and flexible. It involves helping people plan their vacations, recommending restaurants, attractions, and directions to and from the resort, providing transportation, assisting at the front desk reservations, resort events, and providing all information at the Concierge’s desk in the lobby.

Shangri-La Resort provides a variety of activities and facilities for hotel guests, members, and the public to enjoy. I’m ready to plan out an amazing week or weekend for you and your family.
Do you need to get away for a weekend, but not sure what to do or where to go? That’s why I’m here, to help you navigate all of the possibilities available at Shangri-La Resort. Have a special day coming up? An anniversary, honeymoon, or a first date? I’m here to assist you in any way possible. Maybe a sweet treat from our exceptional Pastry Chef can be delivered to your room or something delicious waiting in your room for that special someone.

I’ve helped with proposals, weddings, and vowel renewals.


Shangri-La Resort provides a variety of activities and facilities for hotel guests, members, and the public to enjoy. I’m ready to plan out an amazing week or weekend for you and your family. So what do I do?… My answer is, what can I do for you?

For more information please call the Concierges Desk at 918-257-2317