first boat

[Jmorgan4607]

I am looking to purchase a boat next year.
I live in Port Charlotte Fl and would like some advice on a boat for the bay and open ocean.
I seen post on deep v designs, bow rider, center console.
I just want to fish and dive. also where do I go to take a safety course?

Thanks for any advice the board members can give me.

 

[CheapboatKev]

Re: first boat

Welcome Aboard...

Heres is a link to the Charlotte Harbor USCG Auxillary..

http://a0700908.uscgaux.info/Flotilla_98_home.html

They can get you edumacated..lol

And as far as the classic "what type" well it really depends on 3 questions.

WHAT do you want to do with the boat?

WHERE are you going to be boating

HOW many people do ya want to comfortably fit (least important in my book.)

Seems like you did answer the most important 2 questions with Fish/Dive and you want to be on the bay and open ocean.


Since you say "open ocean"..Well then I'd say start at least in the 20 ft arena of boats..Then see what layout works best for you..

You are on the right track by asking about the course...Do not rush into any old boat and head for big water without knowing your skills and the reliability of your vessel..
Good Luck..

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: first boat

center console, outboard, T-top. I don't know your waters but I think you want 21'+. Used will be $15-18,000 for <6 years old; don't go older unless you already know a lot about fixing boats. Not cars or lawnmowers, boats.
Consider a deep V although a scow bottom like a whaler or Carolina skiff works great for the right boater. Divers love them but they are bumpy rides to and from the sites.
If you are going to launch from the trailer every time, get rollers and a power winch so you don't have to dunk your axle.
First determine what you will use it for most, then secondary uses. IOW don't look for a cruiser if you will spend most of your time waterskiing; don't buy a ski boat if you will spend most of your time fishing.
Then go wander around marina's and boat stores to find the hull configuration you want.
Then set a budget; hold back $1,500 for initial repairs and outfitting (more if it's new and bare).
Then and only then start shopping. Otherwise you will try to make the boats fit you ratehr than the other way around.
Survey unless you know boats; get a mechanic to check out the motor if you do, and test drive.

welcome to iboats. Tons of info here, but a lot of advice comes from the perspective of fresh water and cruiser users, so filter the advice some.

 

[Jmorgan4607]

Re: first boat

Thanks for the advice.
I'll update later to let you both know what boat I purchase.