Should I buy a used Jet Boat, if not what?

[Techtraveler]

Hi, I have been lurking here for a few weeks trying to learn all I can before I buy a used boat.

We have a 2nd home(condo) on the water in St Augustine on the Matanzas river. That's the Intercostal to those not familiar with the area. I am looking to buy a small boat for cruising, tubing, swimming and maybe every now and then fishing. It will mainly be my wife, 12 YO daughter and myself. Possibly up to 2-3 others on occasion. I will trailer the boat, but only about 100' from the boat parking to our ramp. We have thought very much about a Jet Boat in the 15-18' range. My budget is around 4-5K. We have a lot of marine life around us, Manatees and Dolphins to be specific and rather not risk hitting one with a prop. My concern is if there are more issues and problems with Jet boats then a regular O/B.

I have seen some Sea Doo Jet boats in this price range around 1995-2002. However, I really do not want a boat that needs a lot of upkeep. I am torn between this type and a 16-18' Center Console O/B that has way less components to keep up with. I have seen some nice options come and go in the Center Consoles, but a little afraid to buy anything and get stuck with a problem. Also, I am seeing more dual engine jet boats then single. Since I am not looking for speed having another engine is just anther place to put money for me.


I have owned 2 boats prior, but still consider my self a boating novice. First boat was a great little 16' side console with a 25hp O/B. I sold this and bought a POS Bayliner 20' Cabin Cruiser that we never got to use due to problems. I tried buying more boat then I could afford and ended up with garbage. I do not want that to happen again. This was 12 years ago, so hopefully I have learned some from previous mistakes.

Any ideas if my budget is realistic for either of these boats? And what should I be looking for?



Thanks,

TT

 

[H20Rat]

Re: Should I buy a used Jet Boat, if not what?

I'm the biggest proponent of jet boats here, but they aren't the best boat for some situations. For your situation, i think you might not find a decent boat that is big enough for your intended purposes. Realistically any of the newer yamaha's are going to be out of that price range, so you are left with some of the older/smaller seadoos.

The other thing to consider with jet boats is repowering... If you buy an outboard with a bad engine, its relatively painless to repower to a different motor. With a jetboat, it is going to be much tougher, depending on the engine choice at least.

Biggest thing is look at what other people are running. Sealife might not be as big of a problem as you think if everyone else is running propped boats. (as well as there are normally areas off limits to ALL boats because of sealife risks, and as far as I know, most of those do not allow non-prop boats in, its simply all powered boats) In my area, jets are fairly popular because of a shallow river with lots of sandbars. Prop boats are limited in where they can go, and you spend quite a bit of time getting unstuck.

 

[Techtraveler]

Re: Should I buy a used Jet Boat, if not what?

For your situation, i think you might not find a decent boat that is big enough for your intended purposes. Realistically any of the newer yamaha's are going to be out of that price range, so you are left with some of the older/smaller seadoos.
.

Most of the smaller Sea Doos I have seen hold 5-8 people. Why do think what I find won't be big enough?

TT

 

[Slip Away]

Re: Should I buy a used Jet Boat, if not what?

4-5K for an older used Jet-Boat seems that would be in the shop more than on the water. For that price, they will be heavily used by the time you get your hands on it. you would be better off with a used runabout or CC with outboard in Florida.

 

[Fleetwin]

Re: Should I buy a used Jet Boat, if not what?

I'm a big Center Console fan. But, CC's have their limitations, especially when it comes to seating arrangements. CC's are the lifeblood of the FL boating world. Easy upkeep and limitless power options with outboards.

Jets have their advantages too but fuel economy and low speed handling are not two. Also, many used jet boats may have been run very hard and put up wet. They seem to be the next step up for many PWC owners. Just saying.

Your price range limits you a bit but be prepared to do your due diligence and spend a couple hundred $$$ to have the boat looked over-thoroughly. Buying from a dealer gives you some reassurance, especially if there is a warranty if even only for 30 days, or so.

Running in wildlife areas is really more operator dilegence than the type of propulsion.

Myself, with tears in my eyes, recently sold a Boston Whaler center with Merc. Four Stroke power that I absolutely loved. But, Mrs. Fleetwin wanted a different style of boat. I like the new one but it's not a CC or, a Whaler.:blue:

There are some brands/models of boats out there that offer center console like maintenance convenience (molded cockpits for easy washdown, etc.) but offer seating for four or more. Boston Whaler has the Dauntless series and Scout has the Dorado to name a couple.

 

[Techtraveler]

Re: Should I buy a used Jet Boat, if not what?

4-5K for an older used Jet-Boat seems that would be in the shop more than on the water. For that price, they will be heavily used by the time you get your hands on it. you would be better off with a used runabout or CC with outboard in Florida.

That is what I was concerned about. Forgive my ignorance, but what is a runabout?

 

[Techtraveler]

Re: Should I buy a used Jet Boat, if not what?

I'm a big Center Console fan. But, CC's have their limitations, especially when it comes to seating arrangements. CC's are the lifeblood of the FL boating world. Easy upkeep and limitless power options with outboards.

Jets have their advantages too but fuel economy and low speed handling are not two. Also, many used jet boats may have been run very hard and put up wet. They seem to be the next step up for many PWC owners. Just saying.

Your price range limits you a bit but be prepared to do your due diligence and spend a couple hundred $$$ to have the boat looked over-thoroughly. Buying from a dealer gives you some reassurance, especially if there is a warranty if even only for 30 days, or so.

Running in wildlife areas is really more operator dilegence than the type of propulsion.

Myself, with tears in my eyes, recently sold a Boston Whaler center with Merc. Four Stroke power that I absolutely loved. But, Mrs. Fleetwin wanted a different style of boat. I like the new one but it's not a CC or, a Whaler.:blue:

There are some brands/models of boats out there that offer center console like maintenance convenience (molded cockpits for easy washdown, etc.) but offer seating for four or more. Boston Whaler has the Dauntless series and Scout has the Dorado to name a couple.

I have a feeling I will end up with a CC. I waited too long on one locally. 2004 Sea Fox 17' with 90hp OB asking was $3,800. Recent Widow. I knew about it for over a week, called 2 days ago to see it, but got busy that day, called again yesterday and it was gone. Others will come I'm sure. Hopefully after Next weekend better deals.

 

[Fleetwin]

Re: Should I buy a used Jet Boat, if not what?

A "runabout" is generally a style of boat used for general cruising and light watersports. It typically has a bow riding area and four or more seats, in the cockpit, behind a walk through windshield.

They are a compromise of all intended purposes. Some are quite good at all. The BW Dauntless and Scout Dorado are two examples.

 

[briangcc]

Re: Should I buy a used Jet Boat, if not what?

Runabout = bowrider

Open bow with seating. Gives you more space for fishing from the bow of the boat but yet has seat cushions so you can sit and redistribute your passengers so they're not tripping over eachother if you're out cruising/tubing/whatnot.


All the major players have runabouts.

 

[Scott Danforth]

Re: Should I buy a used Jet Boat, if not what?

A runabout is also known as a bow rider.

Dolphins usually avoid boats except to play in the wake. I say usually because I have seen a dolphin with prop scaring.

Manatees are slow moving, and do not hear very well. Many manatees are hit by boaters. Usually because many boaters are not watching the water. It can be easy to miss them swimming.

That being stated, I have seen two conditions of small jet boats here in Florida. Those that are older, neglected, and kept outside, and those that are pristine, garage kept and in near showroom condition. I would avoid a jet boat that has been neglected.

Since you are boating with your wife and daughter, they may actually like a runabout or at least a dual council for the more "cushy" interiors.

Remember, if Mama isnt happy, no-one is happy

 

[Techtraveler]

Re: Should I buy a used Jet Boat, if not what?

I like Bow Riders for the comfort idea, but to me all the cushions and nicer trim pieces seem like more stuff to wear and need upkeep. Also, don't Bow Riders usually have wood raised floors that can have rot issues over time? Where as the CC have fiberglass floors.

I know I will get more seating for sure in a Bow Rider, but if I can get 5 I am happy. The Sea Fox I missed this week had 5. 2 at the help, 2 in front of the help and 1 single seat at the front.

 

[garbageguy]

Re: Should I buy a used Jet Boat, if not what?

I think the inefficiency and lack of maneuverability of a jet are only worth accepting if is only to be used in the conditions that best suit a jet (shallow calm water, fast and straight running). In your case, a bowrider or center console with OB seems like a better way to go than a jet.

 

[Scott Danforth]

Re: Should I buy a used Jet Boat, if not what?

Also, don't Bow Riders usually have wood raised floors that can have rot issues over time? Where as the CC have fiberglass floors.

Where did you get this information? every fiberglass boat I have owned had fiberglass over wood for the sole. Every CC I have been on has had similar construction

 

[smokeonthewater]

Re: Should I buy a used Jet Boat, if not what?

a runabout is not specifically a bow rider.... it is just a small pleasure boat with no specific use... ie not specifically a fishing utility sail speed or ski boat... It can have a closed bow or open bow.

 

[Techtraveler]

Re: Should I buy a used Jet Boat, if not what?

Where did you get this information? every fiberglass boat I have owned had fiberglass over wood for the sole. Every CC I have been on has had similar construction

Just more of my boating ignorance it seems.

 

[britisher]

Re: Should I buy a used Jet Boat, if not what?

You may want to google propeller guards to find out that you can purchase 'manatee friendly' guards for fitting on props. One site was mptmfg. com. That may help in selecting jet power or sterndrive. Personally on the budget you have, you'll be looking at an older sterndrive bowrider.

 

[Techtraveler]

Re: Should I buy a used Jet Boat, if not what?

You may want to google propeller guards to find out that you can purchase 'manatee friendly' guards for fitting on props. One site was mptmfg. com. That may help in selecting jet power or sterndrive. Personally on the budget you have, you'll be looking at an older sterndrive bowrider.

Interesting product, just need to find cost of it. I be curious to hear if anyone has used this.

Someone mentioned before, that only certain areas do you have to worry about manatees, but I see plenty of them sitting on my porch, so I know they come right by me and I am only about 75' from the channel.

 

[Bikeluver43]

Re: Should I buy a used Jet Boat, if not what?

Hi, I have been lurking here for a few weeks trying to learn all I can before I buy a used boat.

We have a 2nd home(condo) on the water in St Augustine on the Matanzas river. That's the Intercostal to those not familiar with the area. I am looking to buy a small boat for cruising, tubing, swimming and maybe every now and then fishing. It will mainly be my wife, 12 YO daughter and myself. Possibly up to 2-3 others on occasion. I will trailer the boat, but only about 100' from the boat parking to our ramp. We have thought very much about a Jet Boat in the 15-18' range. My budget is around 4-5K. We have a lot of marine life around us, Manatees and Dolphins to be specific and rather not risk hitting one with a prop. My concern is if there are more issues and problems with Jet boats then a regular O/B.

I have seen some Sea Doo Jet boats in this price range around 1995-2002. However, I really do not want a boat that needs a lot of upkeep. I am torn between this type and a 16-18' Center Console O/B that has way less components to keep up with. I have seen some nice options come and go in the Center Consoles, but a little afraid to buy anything and get stuck with a problem. Also, I am seeing more dual engine jet boats then single. Since I am not looking for speed having another engine is just anther place to put money for me.


I have owned 2 boats prior, but still consider my self a boating novice. First boat was a great little 16' side console with a 25hp O/B. I sold this and bought a POS Bayliner 20' Cabin Cruiser that we never got to use due to problems. I tried buying more boat then I could afford and ended up with garbage. I do not want that to happen again. This was 12 years ago, so hopefully I have learned some from previous mistakes.

Any ideas if my budget is realistic for either of these boats? And what should I be looking for?



Thanks,

TT

I personally think you can find a very decent Sea Doo Jetboat for around that price range - probably a Challenger or possibly a Speedster. Sea Doo produced some very reliable powerplants those years, the 720 & 800 motors were very reliable with the 720 being the better of the two (no RAVE valves, wasn't installed at an angle which is easier to work on). The 720 was 85HP and the 800 was 110HP, I've owned jetski's with both motors and they were simple - gas and go motors.

Prior to buying either of those, I would always check the compression. Also, find one's that are STOCK and not modified with pipes, air cleaners, head upgrade, etc. You want a stock motor, with a good compression matching on both cylinders and it should last you awhile.

I think you'll be happy with a Jetboat, the older Jet boats and Jet Ski's were much more fun that the newer ones. Smaller, less "V" style hulls made them spin and fun to manuever. Best of luck on your decision.

 

[Seamarski]

Re: Should I buy a used Jet Boat, if not what?

Hi, I have been lurking here for a few weeks trying to learn all I can before I buy a used boat.

We have a 2nd home(condo) on the water in St Augustine on the Matanzas river. That's the Intercostal to those not familiar with the area. I am looking to buy a small boat for cruising, tubing, swimming and maybe every now and then fishing. It will mainly be my wife, 12 YO daughter and myself. Possibly up to 2-3 others on occasion. I will trailer the boat, but only about 100' from the boat parking to our ramp. We have thought very much about a Jet Boat in the 15-18' range. My budget is around 4-5K. We have a lot of marine life around us, Manatees and Dolphins to be specific and rather not risk hitting one with a prop. My concern is if there are more issues and problems with Jet boats then a regular O/B.

I have seen some Sea Doo Jet boats in this price range around 1995-2002. However, I really do not want a boat that needs a lot of upkeep. I am torn between this type and a 16-18' Center Console O/B that has way less components to keep up with. I have seen some nice options come and go in the Center Consoles, but a little afraid to buy anything and get stuck with a problem. Also, I am seeing more dual engine jet boats then single. Since I am not looking for speed having another engine is just anther place to put money for me.


I have owned 2 boats prior, but still consider my self a boating novice. First boat was a great little 16' side console with a 25hp O/B. I sold this and bought a POS Bayliner 20' Cabin Cruiser that we never got to use due to problems. I tried buying more boat then I could afford and ended up with garbage. I do not want that to happen again. This was 12 years ago, so hopefully I have learned some from previous mistakes.

Any ideas if my budget is realistic for either of these boats? And what should I be looking for?



Thanks,

TT

I just sold my 2003 Sea Doo 150 boat and I still have yamaha gp1300r jetski. It was a great handling boat but sold it to buy sea doo 180 just because the 150 was getting way too small for us. Once I started to look around I realized that I could get more for my money if I get a bowrider. So not really sure if I would recommend the jet boat and just keep in mind that sea doo don't make the boats any more. Jetboat are usually loud, they don't tow very well and they are not as great on gas. Yes you can go into shallow water but what gets the impeller damaged is when you suck the dirt and small rocks. To be safe you should never accelerate fast if there is at least 3-4 ft of water.

 

[Techtraveler]

Re: Should I buy a used Jet Boat, if not what?

I think I am dropping the Jet Boat idea. I am going to mainly look for CC, or possibly a bow rider. I would like to learn more about prop guards though.