Possible Swap; pontoon for bow rider

[lncoop]

Here's the boat. http://littlerock.craigslist.org/boa/4458103826.html I know you can't really tell anything about it from the ad, but what are your thoughts on that model Chapparal? He says it's 21 feet but I believe it's actually 20 and change. I'm a little surprised by the single axle trailer but I think I read it's a pretty light boat for its size. Supposed to have a nice ride. Big adjustment from a barge and one the admiral might not even countenance. Just curious to hear what my iboats brethren might have to say. He's supposed to send me pics.

 

[oldjeep]

Single is pretty normal for 19/20 ft bow rider. Model indicates a 20 ft. Looks decent from the pucture

 

[younggun]

My grandfather had one almost identical to that just a few years older and it was a pretty good boat when he had it and his had a single axle trailer and they pulled it fine with a Toyota 4 runner.

 

[smoedog]

Tell ya what coop, you get that and we can go out, familys can stay on my barge while we have fun with your go fast

 

[smoedog]

Tell ya what coop, you get that and we can go out, families can stay on my barge while we have fun with your go fast

 

[southkogs]

I prefer a boat like that over a pontoon with the exception that a 'toon provides a TON of deck space and usually some extra "tonnage" for passengers (not that I don't like pontoons). I used to sell Chaps back in the 90's, and while I would consider them a mid-grade (though higher mid-grade) boat, I've never been on one that I didn't like. The hulls generally run really nicely.

If it's clean and well kept, it could very well be a nice boat.

 

[Texasmark]

Never had a toon. This looks like a smooth riding semiV hull. A lot less space, but a different perspective entirely. This is a go-fast boat. The toon I'd assume is just a goof off boat; fish, ride around for the afternoon with a dozen folks, fish under the lantirn lights for Crappie or what have you at night; have a party, etc. The seats up front (in the bow) are priceless, especially on a monohull semi V. I would think that you would enjoy it.

Mark

 

[moosehead]

Bowriders are under rated around here. They are highly rated by bikinis, go fasts, recreational skiers/boarders, families/kids, and swimmers. If she checks out, make the swap.

 

[lncoop]

I visited with the Chap owner Saturday. He and his wife have seen pics of the barge and have been advised of all the good bad and ugly and they're interested. The admiral is dubious but is willing to at least consider it. I understand her trepidation. We've really enjoyed the pontoon style of boating, and I have mixed feelings myself, but Gracie really wants something faster. I also understand that and this might be a good compromise. I've reached that point at which one says if it's meant to be it will happen. Definitely not gonna try and force it. I appreciate the input. It's exactly what I needed in order to decide whether this was worth considering. I'll keep you posted.

 

[bruceb58]

A swap between your pontoon and that boat is not an even trade. Would he be bringing in more money for the deal?

 

[lncoop]

A swap between your pontoon and that boat is not an even trade. Would he be bringing in more money for the deal?

Really? I thought it seemed pretty fair, maybe even weighted a little in my favor. 2001 Suntracker with 90 HP two stroke. Mabybe I should investigate a litle more.

 

[bruceb58]

For some reason I thought your SunTracker was the same year as mine(2006). You are correct and you would be ahead in this deal.

 

[lncoop]

Okay, thanks. Onward.

 

[greenbush future]

Every Chap I've been on was nice, I agree with most here, you are getting a well built boat. How well it's cared for is the rest of the story, and yes the type of boats are really different. I would buy a Chap in a heartbeat if I was looking, it's always made my shortlist of speed boats to consider. I dont have much knowledge of toons, except they are really fun too.
Just curious how you found this deal, trading and all that ? Seems like we see a lot more trading going on these days, and I was just curious about how deals are made? Thanks,

 

[lncoop]

I was goofing off on CL the other day, which I rarely do any more, and typed pontoon in the search box. The ad came up because it mentioned the seller might trade for a pontoon. Just for giggles I texted him and we ended up talking about it quite a bit. I'm always up for a little wheelin' and dealin'. The admiral calls me Mr. Haynie LOL.

 

[Brian 26]

In my experience boat trades very seldom work out unless someone is willing to take a hit or cash is involved. Too many variables in the deal.

I hope it does work out for you, let us know how it goes.