Newbie needs advice

[ChesapeakeSalty]

Long time lurker but my first post. I want to get my first boat for myself and my family to enjoy. I have experience on boats...it has just always been someone elses. We will probably use the boat 20-30 times a year with a combination of fishing and overnighting. I live in Hampton Roads so most of the time will be in the local rivers and the mouth of the bay/Eastern Shore trips. I will more than likely by used.

My question is in regards to power choices and I just want to see what everone thinks. In regards to cost of maintaining and running, as well as the abiltiy to service and 'fix' in a jam should I go with an outboard or a stern drive or I/O set-up?

Thank you in advance for your input.

[thataway]

Where is the boat stored?--Trailer, in the water, dry storage or lift?
What size boat? how many people for overnight? Do you want Air conditioning? (may be nice in this area--if in marinas maybe essential--anchored with breeze not quite so bad)--So do you need a generator?

Personally I prefer twin outboards--in a boat which would be comfortable--but you can do what you want from a boat 22 feet on up.

[ChesapeakeSalty]

It will be trailered and in the 22-28ft range depending on the deal. Not sure on whether I will want AC.