23' sunbird neptune walkaround

[paulgs]

I'm looking at a 23 foot sunbird neptune walkaround with the engine on a bracket. I like the idea of the closed transom, it gives more usable cockpit space. Does anyone have any knowledge, opinion, or comments on this boat? Thanks.

[mattttt25]

i have a '97 sunbird neptune 200 center. i really enjoy the boat, especially what i paid for it. they were/are a "value" boat- probably the same quality as bayliner and the likes, without the bad rep. i run with a '98 johnson 150hp, and think it's the smallest engine that would do. i provide that info just so you can compare with what comes on the package you are looking at. as for the boat itself, really no problems here. i have some nice adds- custome hard top, launchers, lots of electronics, etc. wiring is a bit messy, but that comes with the "value" tag. if you have any specific questions, let me know. good luck-

[Mettaree]

paulgs: I also have a Sunbird Neptune 200 CC that came powered with a 115 hp Rude - was definitely underpowered. Would do abt. 30 gps WOT w/17p prop ( 3 people, 60 gal. gas, 2-batts in bow w/74# RipTide Troll, all fish tackle, abt. 50-60# ice). Repowering with 200 Merc. Really like boat - cuts rough water good ( 3-5' ) rides good.Did need tabs - used Smart Tabs - work outstanding. Have T-Top on it - enjoy boat very much - shame they are out of business. Don't think you can go wrong if the price is right.Jim

[crazy charlie]

Hey Paul Like the boat a lot!!!! Great setup!!!!Dont expect to maneuver too well at idle speeds though.the bracket makes it tougher to turn and backup.Charlie

[nightstalker]

Paulgs: I have a 226 Sunbird walk around cuddy. I really like the boat. She is stout, well put together and can take a lot of rough water. I have a 225 Johnny on her and that may make her a little overpowered. I burn about 22gph at wot which is about 50 mph. What engine is on the rig your looking at and what are they asking for it. In general, Sunbirds are pretty good value boats.Stalker

[paulgs]

The engine is a 98 evinrude. Seller says that it's a carbureted engine not a ficht. The boat is a 98 as well. Asking price is $15,500 (no trailer). What do you think about the value, durability, driveablilty etc. I'd be using it in Massachusetts (ocean). What do you think? What issues did your boat have? Any repairs? Any special problems with engine on bracket? Thanks.

[mattttt25]

not knowing what options it has, i think it's a bit high. i wouldn't pay more than $14k. my boat came with a trailer, custom hard top, lots of electronics, all uscg gear, and i paid $12k about 1.5 years ago.

[nightstalker]

A WAC is going to cost more than a CC. I paid $8,600 for a 1991 Sunbird 226 WAC with a 1994 225 Johnny in excellent condition with a Performance trailer last Fall. The wiring on Sunbirds leaves something to be desired, but overall, I think that $15,500 is just a tad high.Stalker

[dansoph]

we have a 98 17'b.r. love the boat.onlyproblem is the gas tank .can never tell how much fuel is i2n it. tank is 4 3/4"deep and who knows how long.the guage bounces around a lot. boat is well built.98' 90hp evenrude