Re: what can I expect for around 6k?
Think very carefully about how you'll use it. After about 18 months of looking at boats (in person as well as on-line at
www.yachtworld.com) I finally figured out that a trailer boat was NOT for me. In the end, I found a 1989 Larson 25' (about 29' overall) cruiser that is damn near perfect for me & my kids. Seller wanted about 14K but I paid about 10K in the end (here's the good part - I budgeted around 25K originally, so I was real happy).<br /><br />I have a slip in a modest marina 6 miles from home and office, which allows me to sleep over anytime I choose. We average about 3-4 nights per week and therefore don't feel pressured to use it on weekends as much. Other costs are winterization & storage, etc, but I have a good boat guy and trust him. Total cost of ownership, incl gas & insurance but not payment, is about $3,500 per year. Not bad.<br /><br />After 4 years, I'm soooooo happy that I took the time to really think about things before I bought. A smaller day-boat, or anything on a damn trailer, would not meet my needs as well.<br /><br />Bottom line: What you are looking for now may not be what you end up with... keep an open mind.<br /><br />... and GET IT SURVEYED !!!!