Re: Bayliner 2855 Ciera
My son is looking at buying a 1991 Bayliner 2855 Ciera. This will be his first large boat and his first fiberglass hull. I have little experience with this type of boat as I have always owned tinnies. I know it is V8 powered as it has a 7. something liter merccruiser. It is currently for sale at a local marina. We are both aware that this is an entry level boat, it will be anchored at his local marina and used for weekend get away cruising. Advertised price is $17,500 Canadian. Note: boats are more expensive in Canada. Any thoughts?
I have a 95 - 2855 - it has all of the bells and whistle's, which are really what your son should have looked at. Full service bathroom, sewage tank, heater, refrigerator, alcohol and electric stove, sink, Radar - GPS Nav, - the arch comes with the boat. Canvas, good vinyl and seats are important and expensive to replace. Condition of paint, and look at the windshield and the dash to look for cracking of non-skid surface. Moving parts cost a lot to replace or fix, he needs to put power to it to be sure electrical system is working, the fuse box needs to be clean and safe, charging system working and engine starts easy. It can be used for a family boating experience, an adult getaway, fishing and/or plain basking in the sun. The 454 Merccruiser eats fuel, but it not too bad for average cruiser power. Keep in mind this is not a wake-boarding or water skiing boat, it is a cruiser that is designed for camping, not high speeds. If he is into fishing, trolling, he will want to put a small motor on back for the 3knot troll. The 454 eats too much fuel for this, but...everyone I know is getting the same range with their fuel, well except the super high performance boats. While there are many things that can go wrong with this entry level cruiser, it catches eyes at the local dock in Kirkland, WA; everyone loves what it offers for the short length it has; price included. When this boat is in the water, and clean ...it is pretty sweet. I have had a few people turn there nose up at it, because it is a Bayliner; but they were multi millionaires. This boat is an excellent choice for the price. At $17.5K, he will want to look at what is wrong, with all the bells and whistles, and a trailer all working they are selling for $25 to $30K in the NW USA. I got mine for $27K, with everything working and the most amazing 3 axle trailer. This boat was the best buy in 2011 that I could find through the USA, and nothing I have seen touches it so far. Good luck and I hope all goes well.
