New boater needs answers - The Hull Truth

marmstrong · 02-18-2005, 11:24 PM

I have a 20' Renken Seamaster w a 175HP Yamaha and the former owner said he has taken it to the gulf stream several times...

I was wondering if it was enough boat for that or would I be an idiot to try?

Bluemelvin · 02-19-2005, 08:36 AM

I don't think you have enough fuel capacity to make it. Much less boat.

colliwh · 02-19-2005, 09:23 AM

Hey, you see everything out in the gulfstream at one time or another........nope, take that back, haven't seen a pontoon boat yet but I would not bet that someone hasn't done it.

Seriously, the prior owner may have gone to the stream, but it is not the size/type of hull that most of us would use. You would have to pick your day carefully and hope that thuderstorms and the inlets are favorable.

auguste · 02-19-2005, 09:34 AM

I will make*the*critical assmption that you want lots of help and answers, since you say that you are a new boater with a 20 foot boat with a single outboard engine.

I can not give you the answer you want, but I can help you make the decision . . . remember this is a personal decision so don't let people force you into doing something you are nmot ready for

There are a few days per month when the Inlet is easy to navigate and the seas are calm, so it is easy to get out to the stream . . . now for the difficult questions

1.* Will you have enough fuel to get back?

2.* Will the weather be nice when you come back? . . . no guarantee there

3.* What is your back-up plan if your engine dies? . . . will you always boat with a buddy

4.* How good are your navigations skills to get you back to your dock?

5.* What will be the conditions at the Inlet when you enter?

I have lots of on water experience but I am relatively new to the conditions you will find fishing off of the Outer Banks and similar areas . . . the Inlet conditions can be extreme and sometimes overpowering . . . my experience last year has lead me to the conclusion (my personal conclusion and many here on this forum will say I am a chicken) that I would not take my previous boat, a 24 footer, to the gulf stream except on the very very best of days, after consulting the tide charts to see what the Inlet will be like when I return, and that I am buddied up with someone for the entire trip.

Again, lots of guys will venture out and get back safely, however, a few have run into major problems . . . the risk is yours to take

Personally, I fish a 34 footer out of Pirates Cove near Oregon Inlet, 10 foot beam, and there are many days that I don't go out . . . but again that is my preference.

Jimbos · 02-19-2005, 10:19 PM

Hey there!

I want to tell you also that it's very easy to run into fog out there too. I have a 24' Vector and have been out to the gulf stream a few times. Let me tell ya, you better have have a backup plan if you decide to head out there or go out with another boat. It's not worth your life, and I mean that literally.

Captain Jim

marmstrong · 02-20-2005, 12:58 AM

Thanks for the input guys I really appreciate it!!!