About to buy my first powerboat... tips?

[jattea]

Hi all.

I'm about to buy my first boat. I'm 30 and my family had boats while I was growing up. I am a novice, and I know the basics of boating (i.e., right of way, how to dock, etc.), but I don't have much advanced knowledge, for example, about engines, drives, etc.

I'm just looking for some general advice.

I'm on the great lakes (Buffalo), and I plan to use it for short outings with family and friends, the occasional overnight, and for fishing. One consideration is that I have a four month old baby, so safety is an issue (i.e., high walls).

I have narrowed my search down to a 24-25 foot mid-cabin cruiser. Sea Rays, Maxums, Chapperels, Rinkers, and Bayliners are the most common boats around here, and I've been told to avoid Bayliners.

I'm looking used, late model (2000+). I figure that, because of the economy and the price of gas, I should be able to find a deal. I'd like to spend around $30k, give or take.

however, if I buy now, I'll have to pay for winterization. If I buy during the winter, I'll save on the winter storage. But there are negatives to buying in the winter: I won't get this last month of the season to boat, and I won't be able to test drive it.

So I guess I'm just looking for some general information. What does everyone think of Rinkers, Chapperels, Maxums, and Sea Rays. When should i buy? What should I keep in mind when I buy?

I just want to be an educated buyer...

Thank you for the help.

Jonathan
Buffalo, NY

 

[Tacklewasher]

Re: About to buy my first powerboat... tips?

Not sure how renting is in your area for the size of boat you are looking at, but you might give a thought to it. Rent a couple different boats for the rest of this season and save the money on storage etc. Try different types of boats to see what suits you best.

 

[haskindm]

Re: About to buy my first powerboat... tips?

The original builder of a used boat is not nearly as important as the condition of the boat and the care that it has received from the first owner. All of the companies that you listed make good boats. Bayliner had some quality issues in the early years but seems to be doing better now. Don't buy ANY boat without a thorough sea trial. Unless you are VERY knowledgeable you should have the boat checked over by a marine surveyor. The few hundred dollars that they will charge for their service could save you thousands of $ down the road.

 

[NelsonQ]

Re: About to buy my first powerboat... tips?

Some good advice above. Also, don't discount Bayliner if you're looking at Maxum, both are built/owned by Brunswick Boat Group. I think all should be considered based on your needs and once you've decided and are buying used, have it checked thoroughly by a knowledgeable marine surveyor (as mentioned above)

 

[jattea]

Re: About to buy my first powerboat... tips?

Thanks again for all the great advice.

Quick question: How to Glastrons stack up against these other brands?