What kind of boat should I get?

We are planning on returning to Nova Scotia and settling in Wolfville, beautiful town on the Minas Basin. I am originally from Parrsboro which is on the opposite shore of the bay, known as the site of the highest tides in the world. I would like to have a family boat for pleasure and fishing that could safely take us across the bay. I have a lot to learn about boats, where is a good place to start?

Cheers,
Tom

Re: What kind of boat should I get?

Your question is pretty much wide open as it stands. What size boat? New or used? Will you trailer it or keep it at a marina? Also, many of us are not familiar with Canadian waters. It would be nice to know the size of this bay and whether it's wide open to the sea?

Meanwhile, here are a couple of existing threads that might give you some ideas -

http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=17024

http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=206270

Kelly Cook

Re: What kind of boat should I get?

OK, let me try to narrow it down.

Needs to carry a family of four and would be great if we could bring guests occassionally. Definitely need some kind of a cabin with head but don't think we'll be spending many nights onboard. Big enough to handle ocean waters. Would prefer a diesel engine.

Used.

There are no marinas around but I suppose I could moor it at a wharf, although I don't really like the idea of it sitting in the mud during low tide, so I would prefer to trailer it. How difficult is that with a 20' + boat?

Here's a link to a map of the area, scroll down a bit to see Parrsboro on the north shore:
http://www.mapquest.com/maps/map.ad...at=&address=&city=wolfville&state=ns&zipcode=

Did some looking around after posting the question and think a Cape Islander with a cuddy cabin would be great, what do you think?

Re: What kind of boat should I get?

Looks like pretty country. The Cape Islander boats that my searches turned up were either a completely open design, or had a full pilothouse. Personally, in that size I'd prefer a WalkAround type. Here is an example <external URL, do not copy asterisks to address bar>

**steigercraft.com/main/docs/boatdetails.cfm?boatid=6**

A real difficulty with all of these traditional fishing type boats is a lack of seating. There are many pleasure boats in this size that will have very nice seating, but I don't know which brands are available in your area.

Kelly

Re: What kind of boat should I get?

i would be looking in the 24-25 foot range, twin engine, for safety, looks like some big water there, possibly large outboards, as winterizing is easier, and easier to trailer. also consider you are going to have to have a tow vehicle cabable to handle the tow.

Re: What kind of boat should I get?

here's a project boat, ebay # 270188531590

and trailer ebay # 320184277190

would make a go combo. both are in Connecticut. pick up trailer, then boat.