Thoughts on an express cruiser style of boat

[sailor55330]

I was curious what the opinion on express-style cruisers are when it come to light offshore use. I may be relocating to the florida area on the gulf side and was thinking of trading up. I don't fish, so that's not a concern. Its more for running the ICW/bays/etc.

I've tried to research and it's all over the board. I'm looking in the 30-35ft range. My boating experience is slightly limited. I've been on sailboats for 40 years (starting at 9mos old) and have owned them up to 31ft, all in the Galveston bay area, so "bigger" water is not a concern with some offshore racing experience. I currently have a 21ft ski boat in MN and hate dealing with the trailering aspect and the limitations of lakes--for me going in circles sucks. From a boating knowledge perspective, I'd say I'm somewhere around and "advanced beginner".

IF I move to a real water area again, I'd definitely look at a real boat again, problem is wife doesn't really like sailing, so I'm thinking an express cruiser type would be more appealing. I would prefer 2 engines, but realize that is double everything (good and bad).

How do they handle as a rule? 2 ft chop? 4ft?, wind, ride? I understand that weather is what you make it and seamanship is a huge factor in any decision. Of course, any boat would be subject to marine survey first and foremost.

Thoughts?

 

[alldodge]

At least a 30 footer, as deep a V-hull as you can find. The heavier the better, twin engines, with V drives. Maintenance cost is much less on V drives. You can do it with smaller boats but weather kicks up quick so the more free board the better.

 

[Scott Danforth]

depending where you are on the golf side, plenty of skinny water here (and I mean skinny, as in the birds are walking on the bottom and not swimming)

I have been in 7 foot seas in my old SeaRay 190 (dont recommend it). Been in the same rough seas with the Cruisers (much better). however the ICW generally doesnt get too rough. the mouth of the Manatee where it hits the ICW and gulf near the skyway does.

the channels in the ICW change with nearly every storm. many of the passes have signs indicating that "Local Knowledge Required"

I would recommend going twins if you can. however you want something that has a shallow draft. Many of the bars/restaurants only dredge about every 2-3 years. I have repainted my skeg and props more than a few times.

if you end up near Bradenton, you will want these guys on speed dial. https://www.generalpropeller.com/

Also, I recommend getting towing insurance.