Help me decide between 24/25 or a 27/28 express cruiser

[deeman7777]

I am in the market for a 1995-2000 express cruiser. I am just not sure what size to get. Both of my kids are in college but are home for the summers and have a strong interest in going boating. In my mind, if it ends up being just my wife and I who end up going a 24/25 footer would be fine and would allow us to explore the lake more since we won't be burning as much fuel. On the other hand, if the kids do go and even bring a friend a 24/25 could be really cramped.

A 27/28 footer w/ a single engine big block is what I am leaning towards but the fuel efficiency does concern me of a larger boat along with the added cost of a boat well.

Have any parents with college aged kids been in this situation?

I'm well aware of two-foot-its and suspect it prevails here too.

Thanks!

 

[rbh]

Re: Help me decide between 24/25 or a 27/28 express cruiser

I am in the market for a 1995-2000 express cruiser. I am just not sure what size to get. Both of my kids are in college but are home for the summers and have a strong interest in going boating. In my mind, if it ends up being just my wife and I who end up going a 24/25 footer would be fine and would allow us to explore the lake more since we won't be burning as much fuel. On the other hand, if the kids do go and even bring a friend a 24/25 could be really cramped.

A 27/28 footer w/ a single engine big block is what I am leaning towards but the fuel efficiency does concern me of a larger boat along with the added cost of a boat well.

Have any parents with college aged kids been in this situation?

I'm well aware of two-foot-its and suspect it prevails here too.

Thanks!

Once you get above 26 foot, think about twins!

 

[JoLin]

Re: Help me decide between 24/25 or a 27/28 express cruiser

BTDT. Went from a 24' express to the boat in my sig last year. Gained 3' in length and a foot in beam. I vote in favor of the largest boat you can afford.

- College-age kids show up with buddies, boyfriends and girlfriends.
- The difference in fuel burn is, IMO, the least of my boating expense. I went from app. 11 gph at cruise (3200 rpm) with a single 5.7, to 15-16 with the current boat and twin V-6's. Roughly a 40% increase.
- Don't assume you'll need twin engines until you try a single big block.
- It's usually just my wife and I aboard, but the extra room (especially if you opt for more beam) increased livability by about 1000% when we stay aboard for the weekend.

My .02

 

[haulnazz15]

Re: Help me decide between 24/25 or a 27/28 express cruiser

What is the intended purpose of the boat? I only ask because unless you plan to overnight on the boat or just want a big cabin with berths for 2-4 people, you might consider a different style of boat. Do you think your kids would be interested in watersports? Where will you be boating? Do you need full sleeping quarters, or would a place out of the sun with a couch be sufficient? Lots of things to consider. The 27-28' range is where I'd be looking at twin engines, and wider beam as well.