*THE HULL TRUTH is the world's largest FREE network for the discussion of Boating & Fishing. Whether you're researching a new boat, or are a seasoned Captain, you'll find The Hull Truth Boating & Fishing Message Forum contains a wealth of information from Boaters and Sportfishermen around the world.
Planning for the Future: Type (not size) of Boat for Going to Bimini / Dry Tortugas
Notices
Welcome to the updated THT!
If you are having trouble signing in, please email feedback@thehulltruth.com with your username and we will help you. We thank you for your patience as we help you access the new site!
Random Quote: We all have issues, some more than others.
Planning for the Future: Type (not size) of Boat for Going to Bimini / Dry Tortugas
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 tow 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.
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 tow 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.
I would say you want a boat with twins and a lot more range....
__________________ 2007 377 Intrepid
USS Ranger - CV61
The timid man yearns for full value and demands a tenth. The bold man strikes for double value and compromises on par.
A couple of things. First, what do you plan to do when you get there? Fish, dive, sightsee, etc. Do you plan to overnight at your destination on the boat or at a hotel?
But based on the boat you have mentioned I would suggest one of the larger dual console boats like the Grady 275. This type boat will feature a higher bow entry and a self draining liner for the days when the seas are not perfect. Most are also constructed with the saltwater use in mind as opposed to many bowriders.
Folks have made the crossing to Bimini from Lauderdale on jetskis and even rowboats. I made the trip 4 times in a sailboat and after 3 attempts, finally made Bimini in my small powerboat. I have planned to get to the Dry Tortugas on 4 occasions but the weather hasn't cooperated, so I have yet to get there, but it's still on my list.
A bow rider wouldn't be my first choice for open water passages...my boat is an 18' walk around (cuddy), show here in the Bahamas.
and it is quite 'towable' as witnessed by the trip from SC to AK.
I am a former Regal owner, owning a 26 ft. with twin Mercruiser I/Os and a 3260 Commodore with twin gas inboards.
A Regal is the wrong kind of boat for what you'rfe looking at. I'd think you want a deep V, fish boat hull. Grady, Mako, Wellcraft, Hydra Sports, like that. And because you'll be overnighting, a cabin. Something in the 24 to 30 ft. range with twin outboards.
I have a 24 ft. Mako with twin Suzukis 4 strokes. I can do those trips, but my feeling is that my boat's a little small.
I am a former Regal owner, owning a 26 ft. with twin Mercruiser I/Os and a 3260 Commodore with twin gas inboards.
A Regal is the wrong kind of boat for what you'rfe looking at. I'd think you want a deep V, fish boat hull. Grady, Mako, Wellcraft, Hydra Sports, like that. And because you'll be overnighting, a cabin. Something in the 24 to 30 ft. range with twin outboards.
I have a 24 ft. Mako with twin Suzukis 4 strokes. I can do those trips, but my feeling is that my boat's a little small.
I would have to agree plus I agree with the other post in that some boats are made with SALTWATER in mind and others are not.
I would look at a 24'+ walkaround type boat, this would give you the cabin to get out of the weather and you will want the self draining deck. Anytime you hit the ocean the weather can change very quickly and these type of boats are designed with that in mind
I sure it can be done with single engine but would want twins for piece of mind
__________________ 210 CC Sea Pro
Yamaha 200 4 Stroke
Dodge Ram 1500 4x4 HEMI
The Fort is 70 miles from KW so it's futher then the run to Bimini. I would look at either 31' INTREPID OR CONTENDER both are made in open and cuddy. I had the 321 cuddy with twins and it went to the Fort alot.
how about a single engine diesel 32 foot center console???
__________________ In the hunt for another...Intrepid....
2005 Intrepid 30 Center Console twin 275 Mercury Verados - SOLD
2000 Intrepid 32 Center Console single Yanmar Diesel - SOLD
2003 Baja Outlaw 25' - SOLD
1998 Hydra-Sports 27' CC - SOLD USCG Captain 6 pack w/ 50 ton master
Naples, Florida
Ken, Regal makes nice boats, but you do not want a bow rider on the ocean. You could bounce the bow passengers right out of the boat.
If you plan on cruising and spending the night on the boat you want to look at walk around style (like Grady) or Express layout. If you plan to stay overnight on shore then a center console boat would be the best if you fish, but bring your rain gear.
Visit some marinas and boat ramps in the keys or on the east coast and you will see what styles are popular.
I have a hydra sports 2500VX (express). twin yami 150's. will do everything you want to do on the water safely.
your 6500 tow limit is going to be an issue for a lot of boats that will meet your needs...
I don't trailor, so I don't pay much attention to such things... but my boat is listed a 5700# dry without engines. add engines, 200 gallons of fuel, gear, and trailor your prob pushing 9-10K pounds
CC's are lighter...
You DEFINITELY want twin engines.
May want to upgrade your tow vehicle... at least consider if this is an option.
I dont think everyone would agree that you "definately" need twins........ I dont think I have ever done it with twins.....
I'll point out I said "want" not "need".
I completely agree you don't "need" twins. But pretty big safety factor when 20-40 miles from the nearest land. (and the OP said he was a "safety nut")
Also the OP said it was his first boat, so I suspect both he and I have far less experience than you. I know I just feel more confident with that extra margin of safety.
I stick with my comment to the OP... you're definitely going to want a twin.
However, plenty of room for other opinions... it's a big ocean / gulf!
Just curious why a Regal Commodore would not be a good choice? I just bought an '04 2765 w/ twin Volvo 4.3. At about 28'+ and an 8'6" beam it's trailerable. The fast trac hull will do an easy eco-cruise at 30mph & 3400 rpm, it planes well w/good tab control and seems pretty stable. I got it to do the 90 miles from Marco to Key West (and the dry T's) without breaking the bank. I haven't had it out in rough water but so far it seems to handle all well. Its' got all the goodies w/ good cockpit & cabin layouts and is a very comfortable overnighter in a small package. The removable rear bench seat make for OK fishing but it's not a walkaround. Bad choice for that trip? Your opinions welcome as I'm not an old 'sea-salt'.
Planning for the Future: Type (not size) of Boat for Going to Bimini / Dry Tortugas 
