SeaRay 185 vs 195 Decision

jdag

Cadet
Joined
Aug 1, 2007
Messages
24
I am high on the SeaRay 185 and 195 Sport models. My local dealer has offered me the following and I wanted to get your opinions.

He has several 2007 185 models of various colors, all with the 4.3L Alpha I MCM Sterndrive, all with single axle trailers. All @ $23,500.

He has 2 2006 195 models (black or red), both with the 4.3L Alpha I MCM Sterndrive, both with dual axle trailers. Both @ $23,500.

Questions:
1) Towing - My car, a Chrysler Pacifica, is rated at 3,500. The 185 will is approx 3,500, the 195 is approx 3,800. Will I be OK with the 195?

2) Year - Would I be making a mistake with going with a 2006 vs 2007? Especially considering that the 2008s are coming soon.

My preference would be to take the 195 (slightly longer/wider). But the towing and year issues are concerning me.

The only other boats that are currently under consideration are the Chaparral SSi 180 and the Four Winns Horizon 180. While I am in a SeaRay forum and can anticipate your responses, any thoughts on the Chap/FW/SR competition?

Thank you, John
 

OKANAGANGUY

Cadet
Joined
Jul 11, 2007
Messages
26
Re: SeaRay 185 vs 195 Decision

I am thinking that the weight of either boat is going to be a little much for your Chrysler. That is dry weight of the boat. Then you add fuel, water toys, all your boating safety supplied, I am guessing with the 195 you will be about 500lbs over the towing capacity. I personally would suggest a slightly smaller boat or a slightly larger suv.. I like your choice in boats though. You have narrowed it down to some nice products. Good Luck. Also if you are into wakeboarding I would personally make sure that you buy a boat with a tower already on. I just installed one and I wished it was already there.
 

ruf1967

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
Apr 14, 2006
Messages
82
Re: SeaRay 185 vs 195 Decision

You might have to consider the 175 due to the Pacifica's low tow rating. Is the Pacifica is a unibody chassis? Wind will also be a problem as the 185 has a higher profile than the 175 and the 195 is greater yet. The brakes on the Pacifica are questionable when towing at or exceeding the rated capacity even with the presence of trailer brakes. A pickup truck or full size SUV is the way to go for full control of the towed load.
 

rlb81

Seaman
Joined
Sep 5, 2007
Messages
63
Re: SeaRay 185 vs 195 Decision

Don't forget the insurance liability also, after you've considered the safety concerns with towing the larger boat.
 
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