Entry Level Boat

soundrocks

Cadet
Joined
Aug 5, 2005
Messages
8
Hi,<br />Anyone know what kind of boat i should look for to go tubing and cruise and stuff? I'm looking for an entry level runabout thats relatively light (around 1000 pounds or less) thats atleast 15-16 feet? As i need to be able to pull it and tow it out of the water with my minivan. (1995 Pontiac Transport) preferably outboard. and no, not a tin boat :) <br /><br />Thanks,<br />David
 

koolerb

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Oct 22, 2005
Messages
370
Re: Entry Level Boat

To keep it that light you may need to go aluminum.
 

koolerb

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Oct 22, 2005
Messages
370
Re: Entry Level Boat

I have a 17 ft Tracker with a 60 hp on the back and I'm probably around 900 lbs.
 

b.gagnon

Master Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Apr 28, 2001
Messages
835
Re: Entry Level Boat

If that weight restriction is including the Trailer, Motor, Boat, Gear, and a full tank of gas, then you will have to sacrifice some. Especially in the hull material.<br />I have a 16' aluminum fish and ski with a 70hp motor that with just the hull and motor I would be at close to 1000lbs.
 

jlinder

Lieutenant Junior Grade
Joined
Jul 5, 2004
Messages
1,086
Re: Entry Level Boat

I would be careful. The only thing I found regarding the 1995 Transport mentions that with the optional tow package it is rated for 3000#. Keep in mind that figure is for a new van. Yours is 11 years old with probably a lot of miles on it.<br /><br />I would look at another vehicle rather than try to find a boat to match this one. Edmunds places the value of your vehicle at about $2,000 (don't know your condition, accessories, etc.). If towing gives you transmission problems you are pretty much dead in the water.<br /><br />My $0.02
 

roscoe

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Oct 30, 2002
Messages
21,754
Re: Entry Level Boat

My 16' Aluminum goes over 1200# with the motor, gas, batteries, and trailer. Good Luck.<br /><br />What Jack L said about your mini van.
 
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