What size boat do I need for family of 6?

[Beefer]

Re: What size boat do I need for family of 6?

May do a little crusing, but will stay close to the shoreline.

Does that mean you are planning on going into the ocean, or the Delaware Bay? If you mean ocean, then I would suggest at least a 24', preferably a 30'. I'm unfamiliar with the Delaware Bay, but it looks big enough to get snotty, in which case I'd probably say the same as my recommendation for the ocean. I like a lot of roominess on a boat, as I hate people and crowds, but I think a 24' is the minimum I'd want to be on with 5 other people.

I don't think that deckboat you show is a boat I would take on big waters, especially with my family.

 

[rbh]

Re: What size boat do I need for family of 6?

The bigger the better!

 

[tekmunki]

Re: What size boat do I need for family of 6?

Just bought a 21' center console for my family of 4- it comfortably seated my family and 2 others on our last fishing trip. We could probably take a 7th but that would be pushing it comfort wise while fishing / casting. The boat is set up as such: 2 seats in rear, 2 at helm (cooler seat), 2 in front of console, and up to 4 in bow seating.

We'll probably take 7-8 total out on the 4th for the fireworks; but little to no fishing will be going on- staying inshore in 3-6ft waters... I won't push the limit to anywhere near the max capacity of the boat.

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: What size boat do I need for family of 6?

Just bought a 21' center console for my family of 4- it comfortably seated my family and 2 others on our last fishing trip. We could probably take a 7th but that would be pushing it comfort wise while fishing / casting. The boat is set up as such: 2 seats in rear, 2 at helm (cooler seat), 2 in front of console, and up to 4 in bow seating.

We'll probably take 7-8 total out on the 4th for the fireworks; but little to no fishing will be going on- staying inshore in 3-6ft waters... I won't push the limit to anywhere near the max capacity of the boat.

perfect rig! Great choice!

 

[wiegs]

Re: What size boat do I need for family of 6?

My wife and I have an 18' glastron. We can comfortably take 4 adults and a couple little ones. Pushing it with 5 adults and 2 kids.

 

[wildspeed]

Re: What size boat do I need for family of 6?

Look for a Dual Console boat (DC) with outboard engine.
There is some older Proline 20dc, Hydrasports 2000dc, Mako 195dc, SeaPro, SeaFox.... who should fit the bill and needs.

 

[NomadRx]

Re: What size boat do I need for family of 6?

Thanks for all of your input! I went boat shopping today. Lots of junk out there... It's amazing what online pictures hide! I saw 4 boats. All owners told me they were "water ready" and needed minimal "cosmetic" work. Just thought you might be entertained by my experience of about 160 miles of travel round trip:

The first was a 19 ft with a cuddy cabin in "great shape"... operating off of an external gas tank, dirty, cracked fiberglass and a pretty nasty looking hull and best of all-- he started the engine for me twice, and ran it for at least two minutes each time without water! When I suggested he hook up a hose, he told me he does this all the time and is a mechanic.

The second was a 23 ft with a cuddy. Only two seats, a rank cuddy, soft floors, a trailer that was literally about 4 foot shorter than the boat and a scary engine that they said ran last year, but they hadn't started yet this year.

The third was a 19 ft bowrider. Bald tires on trailer, rusted out back end, and engine wouldn't start.

Whew...

Fourth was actually pretty nice. 19 ft bowrider, 1987ish. A little worn and needed new cushions, but Yamaha 115 motor started right up, trailer looked pretty good, hull seemed solid and was finally what I would classify as a good used starter boat.

I've got two more to see, but that one may be the one I go for...even though it was a 19 ft, it had seating for 6 in the back and another 4 on the bow. I wouldn't put that may people in a 19ft at once anyway, but it did show that it was laid out with a decent amount of floor space and room for the family. And, hey, it it's too small, I can always upgrade!

So, I will have to move my pricing up from the $2000 range to more like $3000, but that's still not bad and I realize that I'll probably need another $1000 to $1500 to get it in "ship shape."

I appreciate all of your insight. I went with a boater friend and your comments were also in my head as I look at the boats. Great forum. I hope to be able to contribute something of value soon!

BTW, my friend HATES the boat that I posted that someone else here called a water taxi... I still think it's kind of neat, but I see the value in getting something with more appeal and use than a strict calm water river boat. With the low looking sides, not sure it would even be safe in choppy bay waters!

Thanks again!

 

[reddogg]

Re: What size boat do I need for family of 6?

The deckboat you linked would be a good choice so long as the water is not rough. Those ride rough and you get allot of water over the front but in good conditions theyarev awsome. I'd try to get a bigger motor than an 85 though.

red

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: What size boat do I need for family of 6?

I suggest you start your shopping by 'window shopping" new and dealer boats, and walking around the marinas with your wife--just be considerate of the salesman's time and show your self around. Look at the new boat websites, like Sea Hunt and Carolina Skiff, since they make all hull and interior types.

Look for as much open space per foot, capacity for length, high sides, fiberglass instead of carpets/upholstery, molded-in seating. Dirregard add-ons like stereos and depth finders. You will then eliminate cuddy's, bow riders, bass boats, etc and figure out what you want, then go to the used market. Make the boat fit your needs; you are doing the opposite by starting with various boats that happen to be in your price range.

 

[rbh]

Re: What size boat do I need for family of 6?

So I thought I would add a couple of comments to the first one "The bigger, the better"

You have a wife and a young family and if your going to be out fishing/crabing/ touring around you will need first off a place to go #1 and #2, it doesn't mater five minutes out someones gotta go regardless if they just went.
A place to crash out and play IE cuddy. you may like fishing for long hours, but the rest of the family??? Remember if the weather gets a little rough young kids, and wife like it dry and warm.
Something with a table for eating or games.

These points are put forward for your consideration due to the fact that you want to keep the family happy so you will also have a happy day on the water.

Rob