Wild goose chase looking for our perfect 2nd boat?

[BaltimoreCaesar]

We got our first boat a couple months ago (23' center console) and we're already talking about what we want in our next boat but I'm not sure all our needs are possible in one boat. I realize everything in boating is a compromise, but I'd like some of your thoughts for what boats (new or used) would best fit our needs:

• <$200k
• >30' Length (Don't want to get beat up exploring the Chesapeake Bay)
• >1.5 MPG
• >2 Berths (4 adult couples, including myself @ 6'2")
• Enclosure
• Enclosed Head
• A/C & Heat
• Generator
• Refrigerator
• Galley
• 8+ Person Capacity

Am I looking for a unicorn? Was thinking something like a Jeanneau NC 895 Sport, but I'm thinking something with a deeper V and an extra foot or so will make a big difference around the Bay as I've heard their hulls ride rough. Maybe a Ranger Tugs R-29 or R-31CB? Thoughts?

 

[airshot]

Been a boater for 60 years, owned to many to count, each has its pros and cons!! Never found one boat that does it all, besides....life changes and so will your wants and needs..

 

[Sprig]

Wouldn’t even try to suggest a boat that fits all your wants/needs. Since you mentioned Ranger Tugs I’ll just say they are a top of the line awesome boat. Everything about them is top quality and the company stands behind their boats. If there’s a problem they take care of it. I can’t say enough good things about them. But they ain’t cheap. The R31 cb will exceed your budget by almost $200,000.
The boat you seek for your budget probably doesn’t exist. You are going to have to make some concessions.

 

[BaltimoreCaesar]

Wouldn’t even try to suggest a boat that fits all your wants/needs. Since you mentioned Ranger Tugs I’ll just say they are a top of the line awesome boat. Everything about them is top quality and the company stands behind their boats. If there’s a problem they take care of it. I can’t say enough good things about them. But they ain’t cheap. The R31 cb will exceed your budget by almost $200,000.
The boat you seek for your budget probably doesn’t exist. You are going to have to make some concessions.

There are a few 31 CBs in the mid 200s, I could swing something in that range, but more realistically a used 29 CB would probably fit the bill.

 

[roscoe]

 

[BaltimoreCaesar]

View attachment 386912

That was actually my second choice

 

[JimS123]

You will never find a boat that fits ALL your needs. Found that out 40 years ago.

Then, a second boat was a necessity. Of course, the 2nd need not be as fancy or expensive as the first.

After 55 years of boating, we now own 4 daily drivers. Each serves us well for what it is intended.

Of course, I intend to keep a boat for many many years. Changing often is a PITA. Short of that, you can expect to be looking all the time. Nothing more satisfying than being satisfied.

 

[Scott Danforth]

Ignore fuel economy. Anything powered does not have fuel economy unless it has sails, oars, or enslaved rowers (think Viking boat)

Enclosure can be added to any boat by a mobile seamstress

The rest of the list could be twin cabin, pocket cruiser, catamaran, sail boat, etc

If you want 8+ in the cabin, either have leather, foam rubber and baby oil a plenty, or start looking for a 45' or larger

 

[FunInDuhSun]

I'm in the Chesapeake and my boat meets almost all your criteria, no joke!
-WAY under $200k.
- 34’ long X 12.5’ wide.
- NOT 1.5 MPG unless it’s idling in gear.
- has 3 berths if you count the convertible dinette and sofa bed.
- has a full enclosure.
- has a full head with shower.
- has 16,500 btu A/C and heat.
- has a 5KW generator.
- has separate refrigerator AND freezer.
- has a galley with sink, H/C water, electric/ alcohol stove (no oven).
- has room for 8+ adults onboard- 4 bridge, 4 cabin, 3 cockpit. I’ve had more but it gets tight.

OK are you ready for this?
It’s a 1984 Silverton 34C with twin Crusader 270 inboards. You’re welcome.

Average price of these currently run $15-25K in good condition, maybe up to $35K in great shape. I’ve had mine for 19 years and love it.