I'd like to buy a 18-24' used boat--maybe an open bow or possibly a cuddie cabin. How do boat mfg. rate?

Question

looking for a used boat. Boating is new to me..and I'd like to know the better manufacturers from the weaker ones

Answer 1

Stay away from used Bayliners, made cheaply to begin with.

Laurajayne, what type of permit are you talking about...no such thing in Georgia or Fla?

Answer 2

Used Donzi, Sea Ray, Viking usually are in good condition.

Don't pay any attention to Bayliner.

To know more about options you can read this article - http://www.yachtcouncil.com/buying-a-yac...

You can find some used boats on BoatCouncil web site - http://www.boatcouncil.com/

Good luck!

Answer 3

depends on the use. whatever you do, go with an outboard engine! you will not be sorry.  that will be your greatest differentiation in a boat.  if you are not fishing offshore, dont get overly caught up in the manufactures name. most of the well known, and some lesser known, names build perfectly good boats.  i have been around boats most of my life and owned 19 to 33 ft.  i can honestly tell you that almost all cuddies in that size range end up being used as storage and nothing more. the most functional boat i ever owned was a 19 ft. center console with a t-top and130 hp yamaha.  it was great for running about, economical, easy to trailer, great for skiing, fishing and diving. had nice cushions for the bow for lounging.  good luck and enjoy.

Answer 4

We Have a 20 ft Well-craft cuddy (Suncruiser 2000) With the Camper section that we use Regularly, it is perfect for staying out all weekend, 302 V-8 and  cruises at about 25 MPH and 41 wide open,  according to GPS.

Answer 5

Do a search for checkmate boats.

They have been building boats since 1967 and still going strong.

Answer 6

Well if you don't know much about boats and are looking to buy one, you can go to Nada and get a "Average" price of what you are looking at to see what the value should be.

http://www.nadaguides.com/home.aspx?l=1&...

Of couse the condition of the hull, engine and other wear and tear come into play also and it may be worth your effort to take the boat to a marina and have a mech. go and do a checkout of it, they will charge you for the time, but it may be better than paying a lot for a piece of junk.

Also make sure you get a boat for what you want to use it for, don't get a river boat for the ocean or a lake boat for the river...

If you have other questions, drop a note.

Answer 7

a boater myself the only advise I have for you is buy something that feels good and "you" like. The rest will be all pleasure.

Answer 8

Hi me and my partner have just got into boating we have brought a shakespear snipe for some reason alot of people recommend them or you could invest your money into a dory (fishing/ day boat) if you get them second hand you could strip it all down and make it your own personal boat, remember you need a permit and insurance before you could put ur boat on the sea in boating season out of season some areas may not be needed good luck with your hobbie

Answer 9

When it comes to buying your first boat, there are alot of circumstances you have to take into account. First and foremost how much disposable cash do you have.This will determine what make and size you want. Other than that i would suggest you purchase a Sea Ray!! There is a big change between 19'-20'. A good conditioned 19' would suit you perfectly. you could learn to tow,launch,retrieve,and all basic boating techniques very nicely with this boat. Last factor would be resale for your next boat in the bigger size,and sea ray has the highest resale value of any boat out there. Go sea ray young man,you'll never be sorry.