I'd like to start by saying I am a 17 year old senior in high school. I live in New Jersey, but would primarily use a boat in the lake by my home in the poconos. I may end up going to college up there, and I would be spending a lot of time up there, especially by the lake. We currently have our family boat on the lake up there (1997, 18' maxum), but I think it's about time I go for my own. I have taken a boater's safety course.
Since I was 12, I've been obsessed with these 13-16 foot jet boats, I've heard them called "bath-tub boats". I particularly like those made by searay and the seadoo sportster. However, I have heard good and bad things, such as the loss of power due the jet inefficiency and the difficulty of finding parts when things break down.
Does anyone have any advice whether or not I should look into these boats more? I've been shopping around on craigslist and ebay, what should I pay for one of these? I am looking for something between a '93 and '96 and hoping to acquire it for below $3000 in turn-key condition.
As far as what I'd like to do with it. Just cruising around, maybe pull a wakeboarder or tube, but nothing serious.
Aside from that, if these boats are not a good option for a first boat, what would one suggest?
I look forward to hearing your opinions and advice.
Since I was 12, I've been obsessed with these 13-16 foot jet boats, I've heard them called "bath-tub boats". I particularly like those made by searay and the seadoo sportster. However, I have heard good and bad things, such as the loss of power due the jet inefficiency and the difficulty of finding parts when things break down.
Does anyone have any advice whether or not I should look into these boats more? I've been shopping around on craigslist and ebay, what should I pay for one of these? I am looking for something between a '93 and '96 and hoping to acquire it for below $3000 in turn-key condition.
As far as what I'd like to do with it. Just cruising around, maybe pull a wakeboarder or tube, but nothing serious.
Aside from that, if these boats are not a good option for a first boat, what would one suggest?
I look forward to hearing your opinions and advice.