Re: New Boat
Hi,
I went down this path 3 years ago. After talking to several people then, the best advice I was given was to really think about how you want to use the boat. The first thought I would work thru is "how many nights will you actually sleep on the boat per year?". When I looked at all the $100K - $140K boats, I thought the downstairs area to be cramped in this 28-30' sized boat. The national average is something like 12-15 days per year using a boat in general let alone sleeping on it. Other money thoughts: a twin engine boat burns 2X the gas, is slower, and costs double to maintain 2 engines. I personally ruled out an overnight style boat based on daily operating costs (burning 14-20 gallons per hour for a day vs. 5-7 GPH with a lighter/faster 28 footer can add up quick). I asked my wife if she had the choice of spending the night in a hotel or on the boat which would she prefer. Even if we spent $200 night at a Ritz Carlton type hotel we'd be way ahead financially. This is assuming you live in an area with waterfront hotels readily available, I live in Florida, they're everywhere. I bought the 274 Sunesta (28'3" long), got the best engine they offered 375HP Volvo Dual-prop, and loaded it up for almost half the cost of the 290 type boat. The boat goes almost 60MPH and burns 5-7 GPH. It is yacht certified for 2400 pounds of people/stuff, seating for 12, (better than 2X the walk around space as an overnight boat), a porcelain toilet with holding tank, 2 sinks, 6 built in coolers, tons of storage, dual showers front and rear, CD etc. You can see it (pictures & video) on Chaparrals site, with almost every option it prices out around $72k. Check out the rear cushions that close in the whole back of the boat to a lounger. I am currently building in Sint Maarten (Caribbean) and plan to get a 38-44' catamaran when I am finished. My boating plans have changed. I am looking to sell this boat (approx. 160 hours) and dry storage kept since new. You could buy this boat for $40K ish, my name is Michael 904-465-4544. I haven't put it up for sale yet, and was checking out this web site when I saw your posting.
Good luck on your decision.
P.S. 95% of the days spent on boats are just that DAYS. The usable day space on the 274 is unmatched on any boat under 33 feet in length. You would have to buy a Carver Mariner 360 or larger to get this kind of cockpit space.
