Newbie looking for first boat

I've found four boats that I think would work, but have some reservations about each. Plan on primarily lake use for the family(me, wife, 1 year old) to go tubing or just hanging out on the lake.

1) 2007 Stingray 185, 3.0L Merc 135HP(hours unknown), ~$15,000
2) 2000 Cobalt 206, 5.0L Volvo, 250HP(~450 hrs) ~$21,000
3) 2007 Four Winns Horizon 200, 4.3L Volvo 225HP(~80 Hrs) ~$25,000
4) 2009 Stingray 195, 4.3L Volvo 190 HP(new) ~$24,000

I'm leaning towards the 2007 Stingray as a first boat. It's the cheapest, smallest and lowest HP so easier to learn how to operate. My heart wants the Cobalt, but not sure if it's too big/powerful for a first timer and it seems like a lot of hours. The Four Winns and new Stingray seem like the best middle ground options, but also the most pricey. Any help would be appreciated.

Re: Newbie looking for first boat

Welcome to iboats!

Any of these would probably suit your needs, but I like your way of thinking about the '07 Stingray. Are you able to take any of them out for a test?

A couple of other considerations:
1. Spring for a marine survey or at least get someone who knows boats check out the condition of the most likely candidate.

2. What are the limits of your tow vehicle?

Re: Newbie looking for first boat

SJB13 said:

1) 2007 Stingray 185, 3.0L Merc 135HP(hours unknown), ~$15,000
2) 2000 Cobalt 206, 5.0L Volvo, 250HP(~450 hrs) ~$21,000
3) 2007 Four Winns Horizon 200, 4.3L Volvo 225HP(~80 Hrs) ~$25,000
4) 2009 Stingray 195, 4.3L Volvo 190 HP(new) ~$24,000

Click to expand...

I can go two ways on this.

1, the 07 Stingray, Its a good starter but a bit short on the power, and once you have a few trips on it you will be wishing for more.

2, the 00 Cobalt, Not to big, or to small. Good power, no one says you have to full throttle right off the trailer.

The 6k difference is all yours. I dont know what your bank account is like and dont need to.
Resale on the Cobalt is easier, but the 07 Stingray being newer is also a good selling point.

The deciding factor will probably be the wife, Take her with you when you test driver all of them and then decide.

Don't buy before you try.
Im gonna assume they are coming from a dealer, try to get some kind of warranty also.

Welcome aboard, and post some pics of the one you decide on.

Re: Newbie looking for first boat

I would get the Cobalt, best bang for the buck and it will hold its value better. The more power then needed thing is BS you will want it and if you dont get it you will regret it..............tomorrow.