What is better???

[Abe_08]

Okay, this is my first post because I am really thinking about getting a boat in the near future. My question to you is what is a good entry level boat that would be used for family of four boating around and tubing? I believe that I would like to buy a new one that would be in the $13K to $16K price range. I saw that review for the 175 bayliner 09 and that the price is right around $16K. Also, if I could get a new 08 for $13,995 that includes FREIGHT & PREP.
includes the following...


2008 BAYLINER 175 BR, 17' 6'' NEW 2008 175 BAYLINER,price includes FREIGHT & PREP 3.0 MERCURY,135 HP,43+ MPH,7 PERSON CAP.,FAMLIY FUN PACK,BIMINI TOP WITH BOOT,AM/FM RADIO WITH I-POD HOOK UP,FULL INSTRUMENTS,W/TRIM GAUGE, SWIM LADDER,FLOOR SKI STORAGE,TRAILER W/FOLDAWAY HITCH,WILL FIT IN MOST GARAGES,LIGHT WEIGHT AND EASY TO TOW,1 YEAR WARRANTY BOAT & TRAILER 2 YEAR ENGINE & OUTDRIVE
(is this a good deal???)

thanks Rob

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: What is better???

that is what they are going for. if you definitely want new. or look at some others 2 - 3 years old, that have taken the showroom depreciation.

 

[haskindm]

Re: What is better???

Better? In what way? Look at the variety of boats that are available. That is because everyone's wants and needs are different. The manufacturers provide different boats for different folks. For example, I wouldn't want a stern drive on a bet, other people would not even consider anything else. How are you going to use the boat? I had a neighbor with an absolutely beautiful Donzi sport boat that he used exclusively for fishing! He soon got rid of it (at a tremendous loss) because it was the wrong boat for him. Do your homework and decide what you want, how you will use it, and how much you want to spend (don't forget to figure all the extras like equipment, maintenance, dockage if applicable, and fuel) and go from there. This is the fun part, deciding from all the different boat designs and manufacturers out there, which will suit your needs.
Have fun!

 

[Abe_08]

Re: What is better???

okay, what bow rider is the best (entry level)? Is there a company I should look at??? or more important which ones should I stay away from?
thanks
Rob

 

[haskindm]

Re: What is better???

There is no easy or quick answer to that question. 100 people will give you 100 different answers. Most of us will tell you that the "best" boat is the one that we bought or the one that we would like to buy, because we have determined that is the best boat for us. You will need to determine the best boat for you. I don't think any manufacturer is purposely building junk boats. The market is too competitive for that. In the price range that you are talking about, you are not going to get a top quality boat, just as for that price range you would not get a top quality car. Every boat is a compromise. You will need to determine what is important to you and then find a boat manufacturer that shares your ideals. Do you want a fancy vinyl and carpet covered interior, or one more spartan and easy to take care of? Do you want a go-fast, calm water lake boat, or a deep V that can handle a 4-foot chop with no problem. Do you want a stern drive or an outboard? 2-stroke or 4-stroke? How many people do want to take? You said family of four, how long before each child wants to bring a friend? Or do you have friends and family that you want to take with you. It is nice to have choices, but choices mean that you must do your homework.
That said, one of the most important consideration will be the dealer. Will they take the time to make sure that you are buying the right boat for you? Will they be there for you if there is a problem? The right dealer can make this whole process allot smoother. The wrong dealer can turn a great boat into a nightmare.
Good luck.

 

[Abe_08]

Re: What is better???

Thanks, I just thought this would be an easy answer. I just do not want to get a crap boat if there is someone that could have helped prevented it. I just need to go and check some out.
thanks
Rob

 

[haskindm]

Re: What is better???

Bottom line is that there probably are no "crap" boats. There certainly are "crap" dealers, but they get known pretty quick. Most boats and motors are covered by at least 3-year warranties, so you have some protection there. Much of it will depend on how you care for it after you get it.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: What is better???

actually, there are not bad new boats out there. there are bad owners, that do not do the basic maintenance. wash down, cover, and regular maintenance. some think they are suppose to take care of themselves. find the one that best fits your needs, and wallet. always test drive anything before you commit.

 

[wuttja]

Re: What is better???

One thing to think about in that price range is that a 17' or 18' open bow may start to feel a little small with a family of four. When I have my family of three plus a couple of guests, the 21' open bow is still roomy enough but getting close to capacity. The label may say 8, but it will be cramped if you try to move around at all. Also, if you are going to be into water sports (tubing, skiing, etc.) you will most likely want a little bigger engine than the base.
Ultimately nothing is better than trying some different boats out. The dealerships around SE Wisconsin have several demo days during the summer where you can go out and test drive several different boats. If there is anything like that in your area, I think it would really help determine what will work best for you and your family. Good luck!

 

[Robert185]

Re: What is better???

Hey Abe 08. I have a 2008 Bayliner 185 with the 3.0. I'll tell you , myself, my wife and my 2 girls love this boat! That said, would I like a bigger boat? Yes. More power? yes. Better appointments? Definitely! Did I buy the best boat I could afford? Absolutely!! For the price point, the 175 and 185 series of boats can't be beat. In my IMHO, if you just want to go boating and are on an entry level budget, these are the best value for your money. Ask about the 175 on the baylinerownersclub wesite. It has a solid following. Good Luck, hope you can hit the water soon!