Newbie Looking for Advice on Type of Boat to Buy

[epsilon97]

Hello all,

I am a beginner boater (very beginner), and I am coming here to look for advice on the type of boat to buy. Here are some of my initial thoughts. I would love your advice.

1. I am a 38 year old husband and father of 3 children ages 10, 8, and 3. I would like a boat big enough for my family and a couple of guests.

2. I live outside of Philadelphia. I would like to use the boat in Lake Wallenpaupack, Delaware River, and Chesapeake Bay.

3. I want to cruise around, visit interesting areas, water ski and tube, fish and swim with the kids.

4. I want some type of cover so that I am not always in the direct sunlight.

5. I have been looking at bowriders and center consoles. I like the look and size of the bowriders, but the center consoles seem very convenient to walk around and seem to ride much higher in the water.

6. I want something safe.

7. I want a good quality used boat that can keep its value when I get the itch to upgrade.

8. I want to trailer the boat so I can use it in different locations.

Did I miss anything? Can you help me start researching good boats that meet my criteria? Do you have any other advice?

Thanks,
Fred

 

[RotaryRacer]

Re: Newbie Looking for Advice on Type of Boat to Buy

Look for a dual console, made by a reputable company that also makes center consoles. It is the best of both worlds. An open bow with a good big water hull. Get a bimini top and a ski pylon and you are good to go. I'd say about a 20' version should be good.

 

[tpenfield]

Re: Newbie Looking for Advice on Type of Boat to Buy

A center console would be preferable for the Chesapeake Bay. Dual console, as well, would be OK. 7 people (with guests) would be maybe 22-24 feet. Make sure it has restroom facilities on board (porta-pottie, etc).

Take a boater safety course for you and the Mrs (aka Admiral). Look at a variety of boats so you can get the feel of them before you start down any one path.

I/O engines are easier for water sports. . . Outboards are better in salt water conditions.

 

[JoLin]

Re: Newbie Looking for Advice on Type of Boat to Buy

Look for a dual console, made by a reputable company that also makes center consoles. It is the best of both worlds. An open bow with a good big water hull. Get a bimini top and a ski pylon and you are good to go. I'd say about a 20' version should be good.

Yes to the dual console. For the OP's edification it's a bowrider 'type' of boat, but much more capable in waters like the Chesapeake. Better rough water hull and higher freeboard than a bowrider.

I don't think 20' will be large enough for a family of 5 plus guests. I'm with Ted on 22-24'.

My .02

 

[jestor68]

Re: Newbie Looking for Advice on Type of Boat to Buy

You clearly need a ChrisCraft Catalina 26.

 

[Celtichawk]

Re: Newbie Looking for Advice on Type of Boat to Buy

Defiantly go with a 24' if you can afford it, trust me you would not be sorry. I had a 17' and married with three kids also, 8, 3, 1.... yea and porta potty a major plus. You don't need all the fancy living aboard features but at least a cabin so kids can get out of weather deck and rest and place to use facilities in case you away from shore or dock.

I love my 1972 SeaRay 24.5' even if I have things to work on it its amazingly large and my family can easily move around and practically do whatever they want. Plus I got the bonus I have fly bridge so I can go up top and enjoy scenery.

 

[pckeen]

Re: Newbie Looking for Advice on Type of Boat to Buy

With kids that age, you will want to get them out of the wind and spray: dual console (ie. With a windshield).

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: Newbie Looking for Advice on Type of Boat to Buy

for a starter boat, go with a 19-21' center console with a bimini, no portapotty, no ski pylon, and you will find it meets your needs and your budget. Look at the ones with built-in bow seating like sea hunt, not parker. However, a 21' carolina skiff, a superior boat, will carry a lot of people. Both the carolina and center consoles are safe, high freeboard, seawoethy, roomy, maintenance free and durable.

I think 23' is way too big for a first boat. You can always move up, and you can easily sell a 19' CC--or keep it since your 10 year old will be driving it in a few years. PLus people don't take out as many people as they think they will. The smaller boat is easier to trailer and to store.

You absolutely do NOT want an i/o bowrider; that type boat goes against everything on your list, from being safe to holding value.

 

[Bald Eagle Jones]

Re: Newbie Looking for Advice on Type of Boat to Buy

A center console would be preferable for the Chesapeake Bay. Dual console, as well, would be OK. 7 people (with guests) would be maybe 22-24 feet. Make sure it has restroom facilities on board (porta-pottie, etc).

Take a boater safety course for you and the Mrs (aka Admiral). Look at a variety of boats so you can get the feel of them before you start down any one path.



I/O engines are easier for water sports. . . Outboards are better in salt water conditions.

Why is the CC and DC recommended for the Chesapeake Bay? Thanks!

 

[tpenfield]

Re: Newbie Looking for Advice on Type of Boat to Buy

Why is the CC and DC recommended for the Chesapeake Bay? Thanks!

Potential for bigger waves out in the bay . . . Bowriders tend to have a lower bow and may do the submarine thing in higher wave/chop conditions.