1998 Century 2600WA

[inthewater2008]

Well, its official, I have the boating bug. Started with a few trips with a friend and I am searching. I have my eye on a 1998 Century 2600 WA and was wondering if anyone has a similar boat? ANy feedback on likes, dislikes, etc. It has twin Yamaha 150's with about 350 hours on it. No hour meter so I am trusting the ad. Similar boats in size and age are about 40k. This will be under 30k. What should I look out for? Other than spending more than I counted on....

Thanks very much for any advice.

 

[Judd9227]

Re: 1998 Century 2600WA

1st time poster and brand new to the forum as of this morning. First, I am a dealer and I'll get that out in the open so my comments aren't misconstrued. I try to contribute as much as possible to this industry (including writing an article for iBoats Review magazine) and help out with assistance in anyway I can. So take it easy on me!

The 2600WA is a good mix of comfort, performance and fishability. If the boat is rigged with an average amount of upgrades, or better, (i.e. half tower or hard top, some electronics, maybe some cabin upgrades, windlass, etc.) then the "under 30K" range is a good value (especially if condition is good and hours mentioned are accurate). Also, there shouldn't be any real concerns regarding construction of a 10-yr old Century. As with any used package though, I'd have a basic inspection performed on the engine including compression check. If all systems checks out accordingly, and the check books open, get that ball rollin' and start enjoying the water! Good Luck!

 

[rngale]

Re: 1998 Century 2600WA

If you are a first time buyer in the boating world, then the cost of having a full marine survey might be worth it with the amount of money you are looking at spending. I would ? why the price is about 10k lower than the average on the market. I built boats for about 15 years. Not sure how the newer century's are constructed but would guess that its a "bath tub" deck insert, make sure to check the bonding of the floor to the stringers where ever u can get access. Look for soft spots in the stringers as well, as would be an indication of rot. Check the lifting strakes for cracks in the bottom of the hull on the outside, and around the transom as well.

 

[inthewater2008]

Re: 1998 Century 2600WA

Thanks very much for the replies. I intend on getting the survey to get off on the right foot and I'll make sure he looks for any soft spots.

Thanks again.