The Boating Forum - Buying My First Boat

Hi guys, I'm new to this forum. Found it as the number one result for what I searched on Google.

I've been looking at boats, and I came accross one that I really like, and it fits my budget. But, I want to know if there is anything I should be aware of, or downsides to this boat.

Its a 2006 Tahoe Q4 Outboard (Mercury 115). It seems to be capable of the fishing and skiing that I'm interested. Price with tax, title, lisence, etc. is 15,063. I'm 19, and this will be my first boat purchase. Just paid off my truck. My grandpa helped to steer me away from getting an inboard, which makes this outboard version more appealing to me.

To sum it up...are these boats well made, and carry a good rep?

I've watched a video at http://www.boattest.com/boats/727/video/broadband/tahoe/tahoe_q4skifish/video.aspx of the boat being tested (the video features an inboard, where Im going for the outboard).

Thanks in advance,
Robert

Welcome... you should get plently of good replies!

Is this the boat?

http://media.trackermarinegroup.com/tahoe/images/Q4SFOBF0107Web_PB_07_700.jpg

One of the biggest questions you need to ask yourself is where you intend to use this boat, if the pic Wiley put up is indeed the boat you're interested in, I don't think it would fare too well in the ocean or on larger open bays. Looks like a great lake boat however. ;cool;

Oh yeah, welcome to THT

I think the outboard is definately better for you as a first time buyer than the inboard. do a Nada.com search and check the resale value. And James point is valid, that is definately an inshore/lake only type of boat.

With low price boats you can't have real high expectations in the "well made - good rep" department. Here are some more threads on runabout type boats -

http://www.thehulltruth.com/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=49434

http://www.thehulltruth.com/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=108953&start=1

That is indeed the boat. We live on a bayou, and have our own boat ramp. My dad has a bass boat, but thats his pride and isnt allowed much use for me. He also isnt a fn of using it for skiing. Lake use and bayou use is its main intention, though occassionally I may see how it will fair in Sabine Lake...

Thanks for the replays thus far. I read the links you posted, and the first one helped me think about things tons. Any other input is highly welcome.

I don't know much about Tahoe, but it looks like a nice set-up. I especially like that it has an outboard.

How did they get that seat in the front float in mid-air like that!!??

In order to keep that much vinyl looking good you will need a full cover or a garage to store it. Mildew, leaves and neighborhood cats will do a number on the seats and take alot more maintenance to keep your investment looking good. Good luck on your search, I bought my first boat (13' Whaler) when I was 20 and have enjoyed everyone I've owned.. :thumbsup:

Surfhunter - 12/14/2006 12:19 AM
How did they get that seat in the front float in mid-air like that!!??
Same as the one in back I guess. Special feature, those antigravity seats. :)

I don't know what lines the dealers in your area carry, but there are a whole lot of other brands besides Tahoe ...

http://www.glastron.com/boatpages/gt180.html

http://www.seaswirl.com/models_intro.cfm?mid=4882

http://www.starcraftmarine.com/index.php?page=seriesdetails&hullid=4&serid=40&tab=modeldetails&boatid=526

I/O is not a good choice for water with stumps. Dunno what that situation is in your part of the bayou. However, I/O is preferred for wakeboarding, and the I/O power costs less than OB. Which means the same budget can get you into a larger I/O boat. Here are some examples of economical I/O bowriders -

http://www.caravelleboats.com/Boats/BowRiders/187_BR.htm

http://www.maxumboats.com/sport_boats.asp?modelid=80234&year=2007

tahoe boats are built by tracker marine. not known for there high quality but taken care of properly and with a strong local dealer you should be ok. if you plan on skiing and such i'd put a whole bunch more hp on the back. if you need to stick to merc try the 150 optimax. the opti will give you a better whole shot than the 4 strokes and weigh's less. if suzuki is available i'd look hard at that option.

I know I sound like a broken record for what I am about to suggest, but I make this suggestion with your age and financials in mind.

Buy an older well-cared for small Whaler (15 Sport or Classic, or Montauk), with nice power on the back, for less money, be safe in it, use it well, and sell it when u move up for little loss, and perhaps a gain.

Anyone know where I can get a set of those anti-gravity seats?

I agree with parkersal - an older Whaler with solid power may be just the thing. that is unless you intend to pick-up girls - then I would stick with that Anti-gravity equipped Tahoe.

You might look at the U.S Coast Guard web site for recalls on that brand of boat and outboard motor.

C'mon guys. Surely, you've heard of floatation pillows. Similar to anti-gravitational seating but more comfortable.
The 2007 models have the same seating.
http://media.trackermarinegroup.com/tahoe/images/Q4SFF0507_PB_07_700.jpg

Try used for you first boat. My budddy just picked up a 2002 22 Key west with 200 yamaha with 60 hours for 19 k with a trailer. He will get most of his money back when he is ready to sell. Uses it for skiing, tubing and inshore fishing upto 20 miles out. Very basic, no t-top, no fresh water, does the job though.
Roman

I just got done ordering some new seats for my boat from Tracker. 99.99 each.

Back to Future Boat seats.

Your kids in that picture look like they are prime age to get em started skiing. Looks like a nice layout for skiing, cruising, and some fishing. BTW, cute wife.

Welcome to THT. :thumbsup: