Looking for a used good bowrider

[Carlito]

This will be my first motor boat. Mostly family purpose: skying, tubing, fishing, sunbathing. To be used in seawater and kept in the sea for a 3-4 month season before winterizing. Price range US$ 20k. Please any heads up on brand, motor type, what should I check for before I go deep into the marinas, craiglist, et al

 

[ezmobee]

Re: Looking for a used good bowrider

With that price range you should be able to get a NICE boat. What size are you thinking?

For saltwater usage and wet slip storage, I'd be looking for a "Dual Console" as opposed to a bowrider. (The search term is important). Dual consoles usually have more deadrise for a better ride, and self bailing decks. It would be the only way I'd fly for your situation.

 

[KD4UPL]

Re: Looking for a used good bowrider

If you're going to keep the boat in saltwater for 3 to 4 months you want outboard engine(s). Bowriders with outboards are hard to find above about 20 feet in length. An easier to find style of boat might be a center console with outboards.

 

[Carlito]

Re: Looking for a used good bowrider

Thanks for your reply: Would think of 20"-24".
US$ 20k is my top limit.
I will appreciate any light...

 

[ezmobee]

Re: Looking for a used good bowrider

I added more to my above reply as you were responding I think.

 

[Carlito]

Re: Looking for a used good bowrider

Thanks again, what would be the diff between dual console and bow rider?
The swim platform is important for the wife and kids....

 

[Carlito]

Re: Looking for a used good bowrider

Wife and kids appreciate the swim platform. That?s why I was looking for inboard...
Center console, not necessarily a fan.

 

[86 century]

Re: Looking for a used good bowrider

+1 on the outboards(no way I would want to maintain an I/O that has been in salt water).
If I can get to it I have a 140mercruiser that was ran in salt and best I can tell was never flushed. It is totaly trashed right down to the carb. Will get some pics for you if I can.


What type of seas do you expect to be in.

 

[Carlito]

Re: Looking for a used good bowrider

Any model in the US$ 20k range (used) that you would recommend for the dual console, with comfortable swim access...