1994 Rendezvous 2609

[Brian Daly]

Hello...I am going to be a first time boat owner soon and am seriously considering a 1994 2609 Rendezvous with a 2 stroke Merc 175 which looks like it has 445 hours clocked which seems very low for the age. Marina feels it is the original motor. It is being sold through consignment at a local marina which has serviced the motor for some time. I have been referred to this marina by a friend who feels the owners and mechanic are very trustworthly. Owner says motor is strong and he only remembers having to replace a water pump some years ago. Boat is is in semi rough state not having been in the water since 2009. I am going to contact my local DNR today to inquire as to information they may have as to last registration which may give me more info on when it last saw water. Motor was "summerized" earlier this year according to the marina but never made it to the water this or maybe the last 2 years since the trailer registration expired April 2009. All upholstery needs to be replaced as the seat cushions are sun damaged/cracked/ripped. No bimini top or boat cover. Some minor damage to front end is present from bumping into piers and a fiberglass crack along the side, see pic. When I saw it, the front end of the deck was full of water from recent rain. I did not think it was a big deal because of the fiberglass deck. I am a confident DIYer. I am going to test drive it next week.

Any thoughts to a fair price that includes the trailer? Any other thoughts or questions I should be asking the marina?

I also have a 2006 Ford Expedition to tow this beast. I understand the boat weighs in at 3100 lbs. The Ford has a gvwr of 7300 and rear of 4128. I am good right?

Thanks for sharing Brian.

 

[NYBo]

Re: 1994 Rendezvous 2609

Welcome to iboats!

The damage in picture #2 would give me pause. Between that and the neglect evidenced by the need to completely reupholster, I would look for something else unless it was 1. almost free, and 2. I wanted a project for which I had the time, talent, and money to fix. If you can't do the work yourself, you'll end up spending a small fortune.

 

[Brian Daly]

Re: 1994 Rendezvous 2609

Thanks NYBo...I ended up cancelling the test drive. They were asking $3,900 by the way. There was a fair amount of rain water (a few inches) puddled up by the bow as there is no cover on the boat. The front end of the trailer had settled and therefore pitched the boat which is why there was as much water gathered there. My concern was even with the pitch the backend was dripping as well. I dont recall a rain that day or before so I started wondering if there were leaks in the fiberglass deck that was allowing water to get in. In the end, just too many concerns to have as my 1st boat. Plus I have the wifey and 4 kids to think about when taking it out :facepalm:

I have had a couple people tell me to save up a couple more nickles and hold out for a 4 stroke and they are worth the extra investment and resale. Any comments to that?

 

[Island Seeker]

Re: 1994 Rendezvous 2609

Hi Brian, I think the price they were asking was on the high end given its condition. I just purchased a 1995 rendezvous that also needs work but I only paid 1k for it. It's an excellent family boat...very steady on the water. Lots of room too! If you can find one in good condition go for it!

 

[99fxst99]

Re: 1994 Rendezvous 2609

Yeah, what Island Seeker said! I have a 93 witht the 175 and we love it. My 4yr old can run around in it and we don't worry about him. Only drawback is it is a wet boat in rough water. Look around some more and find a nicer one.