Planning for the Future: Type (not size) of Boat for Going to Bimini / Dry Tortugas

[KenB]

I am looking for advice on the type(s) of boat I should be looking at. I am looking to buy my first boat. One of the things I’d really like to be able to do in a couple of years is to boat to the Biminis from Ft Lauderdale (about 50nm, but you cross the Gulf Stream) or the Dry Tortugas from the Keys.

I am a safety nut, so it would be safe for you to assume that I would have all equipment and backup equipment needed and wouldn’t attempt it unless weather was permissible. (Yes I know this can change at the drop of a hat, especially off the southeastern coast of Florida.) You can also assume that I wouldn’t be trying this until I feel completely secure in my abilities and I would be trying it in a group with other more experienced captains.

I would love it if the boat was trailer-able. I can two 6,500lbs. I am looking at spending between $50 and $100k.

I am currently looking at something like a Regal 2700 bowrider (Length 28’6”, Beam 8’6”, Deadrise 24%, range ~180nm). It works well for the primary reasons I want a boat, but I don’t know if I am looking at the wrong type to one day make a trip like I’d like to try. Any advice is appreciated.

[TinManMike]

Not trying to discourage you, but if it's your first boat, Tortugas trips and Bahamas crossings should not affect your purchase. Find something you and your family will use and get comfortable with and then move up as your experience grows. With the budget you are working with, moving up doesn't seem to be an issue.

Gulf Stream Crossings and Tortugas Trips can get extensive in planning, weather, blah, blah, blah. Get comfortable and then you'll know what boat you need for an adventure such as these.

Good Luck with your boat choice, and hope I didn't come across as trying to be your dad!

[thataway]

I would not consider a bow rider at all suitable for crossing the Gulf stream or to the Dry Tortugas. At the minimal you would want either a deep V or a cat. You may want a cabin or pilot house type of boat if you want to sleep on the boat. 6500 lbs will be very limiting--and I assume that is because of a tow capacity. You may well have to get a 3/4 or one ton truck to trailer a suitable boat.

The Gulf Stream can be very rough--and it is much different than a crossing on a lake. If you are limited in your time--this type of passage may not be a good choice. There can be days or even weeks when 35 to 40 foot boats are reluctant to cross the Stream.

Although it might seem to be a good idea to have other boats crossing with you--are they going to stop and tow you if you break down? Consider that twin engines or at least a kicker is essential, and depend on your skills, not others to keep you out of, or bail out of trouble.

There are going to be some used older boats in your price range, but not much if any new at that price , with the fuel capacity, and accomidations necessary.

[solarfry]

No matter what anyone says, you will be heade east where wind blows from south or north. It will be a wet ride in an open boat. Che k out rosborough boats with bigge engnes or twins. iPod

[DonQ]

Originally Posted by TinManMike

Not trying to discourage you, but if it's your first boat, Tortugas trips and Bahamas crossings should not affect your purchase. Find something you and your family will use and get comfortable with and then move up as your experience grows. With the budget you are working with, moving up doesn't seem to be an issue.

Gulf Stream Crossings and Tortugas Trips can get extensive in planning, weather, blah, blah, blah. Get comfortable and then you'll know what boat you need for an adventure such as these.

Good Luck with your boat choice, and hope I didn't come across as trying to be your dad!

+1
I used to be into blowboats. When I bought one I thought I would use it for traveling. I had visions of the islands in my head. It was bulky and unsuitable for the day sailing I really did.
Buy a boat for what you will be doing now. Get your comfort level and your experience with a boat that's fun for what you do. When you are sure that you are ready for those trips, there are bareboat charters to rent. You can try it out on one of their boats before you buy something.
Good luck.