So lazy winter day here. Dreaming of summer and future boat projects. I’m considering a big and little family. I love my 16’ Supersport for small/medium lakes and river systems but I’d like a big water boat. But a big water boat I can both do some serious fishing in and some semi-comfy overnighting or weekending in.
I’ve never owned or spent any time in a big boat, so my ideas may be way off the mark. I’ve bounced back and forth thoughts between the BIG glass cruisers (27’-35’) and the islanders. Neither seems to fit the bill exactly. The cruiser is too big and expensive to own/operate and requires marina mooring.
The big SC’s don’t seem to have really usable space inside or out. Mrs Admiral loves the bow of the SS for reading and lounging. I can’t see her enjoying being in a Chief or Islander unless I create an outdoor lounge space. Thinking of replacing the high seat on port side with an upholstered bench or lounge. If there’s room, maybe even a sink with clip on shelf between the lounge seat and bulkhead?? No idea if this is possible.
So now I’m wondering if doing up a big Islander to fit the bill. The only way a big SC will work for me is if it’s an OB. I cannot have that doghouse in the way. I understand that SC made Islander and Chief OB models, but these are very, very rare in my area, so an offshore style conversion will more than likely be my only option. To be truthful, I prefer the offshore outboard/swim platform pod over a splash well/transom mount to give even more deck room. And I wonder if the fumes/noise will be even less being another 2-2.5’ back.
I originally wanted a 26’ SC with big cabin, head and kitchenette but I think we could live with a smaller cabin with a porta potty as a head as long as we could have deck space to lounge, grill off the side and maybe some fold up or pedestal table ideas to prepare meals. Full convertible camper top for bad weather that splits to Bimini for hot hot sun days. I’m still thinking 24-26’ over 22’
I’m thinking that the money spent on a resto/mod SC even with a new 4 stroke OB will be money better invested than a big glass cruiser. I know I’d use the SC frequently for salmon fishing at least. It’s the weekending I’m not sure of.
Any big SC (26’) owners who spend nights/weekends willing to chime in with ideas?
