Boat - Seaworthy small boat? What's the best deal?

Question

I'm looking for a small first boat that is seaworthy. Small boat that can be towed from a 4 cylinder car. I saw a couple of Parkers that seemed like the right size but not sure about the price. I'm looking for something that can possibly sleep 2 and have a head. Nothing spectacular but minimal. Take a weekend trip to Catalina (Southern California) or maybe a small dive boat.

What boats would be best? I'm new to the market. Any suggestions?

Answer 1

A 4 cyl.  can't tow any type boat other than a blow up boat.  Any boat with some weight and a trailer cannot be towed by a 4 cyl... You don't say how small you are talking.  There are a lot of 15 ft. boats out there for the bay, not the ocean.  The ocean you should consider 24 Ft and larger.

Answer 2

I kind of have to agree with File.

A 15' or 16' very plain aluminum boat could possibly be pulled wiht a 4 cyl car but getting it up the ramp would be a struggle.

With your towing limitations you may be well advised to look closely into some good quality inflatables, not the cheap ones but something like Zodiak or comparable brands.

There are some incredibly seaworthy inflatables out there, but nothing you can sleep aboard, just day trips.

A good quality inflatable is virtually unsinkable, and very puncture resistant. I have seen them in quite rough water bobbing like a cork, Navy SEALS use them for putting people on shore for good reason.