What about old Carvers?

[sbbamafan]

I have had bow riders my whole life. I think it is now time to move into a more comfortable, roomy boat. I am on a tight budget and am very much a do-it-yourselfer. I like the older lines - not the express/sport cruiser lines that are so common. It seems that what I see that I like the most are Carvers - typically 27-28 feet. If you have one please let me know your thoughts. Also, if you have something similar but of a different manufacturer please chime in. Thanks.

 

[arks]

Re: What about old Carvers?

Stay away from old Carvers with wood hulls and/or decks. Waaaay too much maintenance IMO
Generally, Carvers from the early 80's were good boats. They utilized space well, particularly the 28 flybridge models. I have a couple friends that have 28's and they love 'em. Single-engine 28's can be a handful to dock.
Look here: http://www.boatus.com/jackhornor/power/carver28.asp
You'll love the view from a bridge boat. Good luck!

 

[Tahorover]

Re: What about old Carvers?

My buddy and I bought this 1990 30 foot Carver Express from the bank as a repo. Twin 454s on Hurth V-drives, 6.5 genset, and A\C. It had not run in two years, so it took $ome effort to get it ship shape. It still needs some canvas and upholstery work, but runs great. Total investment just under 4k.

 

[smokeonthewater]

Re: What about old Carvers?

in 79 or 80 they ditched the last of the wood window frames and were all glass bodies... still have wood stringers and transoms tho. My favorite boat I ever owned was my 1980 26' carver 2667 santa cruz... I sold it and replaced with my wellcraft 28 and while it is a great boat I will most likely be finding another carver and selling the welly... I REALLY miss that boat.... Didn't know how much I loved it till it was gone LOL.

 

[veritas honus]

Re: What about old Carvers?

You may want to check out Chris Craft, too. Similar in style, great quality and workmanship, and of course, timeless beauty.

 

[bonz_d]

Re: What about old Carvers?

In my younger days when they still built boats from wood in order of popularity it would have been Chriscraft, Owens, Trojan and Carvier.
Guess there just wern't that many Carvier dealers in this area. We also seemed to have had a good number of Starcraft day cruisers running around too.

 

[NSBCraig]

Re: What about old Carvers?

Fireman is a Carver guy hit him with a PM if he doesn't see this thread.

 

[dockwrecker]

I have a 90 Carver Montego, owned it for about 10 years now. Its been a terrific boat as far as durability and still cleans up to new condition. Rides and handles very well, nothing has been needed beyond maintenance. I've had my pains with the Merc drive but that's all.

 

[cobra1476]

Re: What about old Carvers?

I'm in the same boat!!(lol!) I have had a larson bowrider 18' and currently own a 22' deck boat. Been looking more at express cruisers 24'-27'.