Need Help Choosing a Boat

R_Andersen · 10-23-2002, 06:00 AM

I'm in the market for a new boat, but I can't seem to find the right one. I am on a limited budget with about $15-20k to spend and I'll be moving up from my current 22' Cuddy cabin. I'll be using the boat mainly for inshore fishing with a few trips per year offshore during stretches of suitable weather. The problem is that I need to appease the wife and buy something that has some accomodations.

What I'm looking for is something in the 24' plus range with a small cabin that includes a head and possibly a small galley. The only boats I have found that have all this are the mid '80s 25' Wellcraft Sportsman. These boats will sleep 3 people, have a head and small galley with dinette and still have a fair amount of fishing room. The problem is that I would prefer a wider beam than the wellcraft's 8' and I have also heard that these boats do not have the best reputation for running offshore and dealing wth the ruff stuff.

I would be interested in hearing any suggestions on other boats that may fit my needs and also any comments on the wellcraft sportsman boats.

Thanks for any help,
Rob

Stretch · 10-23-2002, 06:15 AM

The same vintage Hydra-Sports 2500 would be a much better choice than the Wellcraft IMO. Do searches on Boattrader and Yachtworld to see what might be available.

VtWarthog · 10-23-2002, 09:05 AM

I was in a similar situation until I purchased
my current boat. My wife loves it and we have
been aboard every weekend from may thru september. We are now ready to upgrade to a
retirement/liveaboard boat. Current 2859
for sale at 36k See http://centralvermont.com/boatadv.htm

Currently under wraps but can pick up in spring if
you like

VtWarthog

KC · 10-23-2002, 09:10 AM

Yachtworld.com as mentioned above is an excellent source. and you can limit your search on price if you'd like.
But remember...the prices quoted are not what the boats may sell for, so set your parameters higher on the price. Hope that helps. Good luck with your search.

Scholly · 10-24-2002, 06:46 AM

Not manny boats in that size range with a fully equipted cuddy. You might look at a pilot type. I know of two pilot types that would fit this bill.

Sea Sport makes the 24' explorer and C-dory makes a 24' pilot cat ... both of these have everything you mentioned.

The problem is cost. You said new and you listed $20K. Not sure what your trade-in / sale value on your current boat is. However you may need to look at previously "loved" boat.

Good Luck!

R_Andersen · 10-24-2002, 10:25 AM

No, by new, I mean new to me. I've been looking at mostly mid 80's boats and also some of the early 70's stamas boats.

dm · 10-24-2002, 12:04 PM

The late 80's sea ray 270 amberjack was the best all around "compromise" boat ever built. 10' beam, galley, enclosed head, huge v-berth, great sea boat and a good sized deck. The only downside is outdrives.