Is there a well built "fly bridge" boat similar in layout to the Bayliner 288?

Question

I'm wanting to purchase a used boat around 28 to 30 feet in length. I really like the lay-out and visibility from the inside of the Bayliner 288 Command Bridge but I'm hesitant to buy a Bayliner; I've read it's underpowered and poorly built. Does anyone know of a newer (late 90's or newer) boat similar in design that's reliable and has a good reputation? It seems most manufacturers that used to make a good command bridge boat in this length have replaced them with 34's or larger (Carver, Silverton, Sea Ray, etc.). I'm in Virginia so I'd like to purchase a boat that can be serviced without too much trouble. Any help would be greatly appreciated. (Has Bayliner resolved some of the design flaws or does that price range of boat just have to sacrifice quality???)

Answer 1

That's a tough one...I think Carver hasn't produced their 28' flybridge model since 1990, and I haven't seen Silverton's 28' models dated after the late 70's. Carver currently doesn't make anything smaller than a 36'.

I would avoid the Bayliner...the reason why Bayliner has gained so much popularity is not for their quality, but because of thir price point. They have the ability to sell their boats for cheap, obviously by not using top-quality components.

You could look into Sea Ray. Their boats tend to be overpriced and sell because of name recognition, but if you do your research, you can probably find a good deal. I'm not sure if Sea Ray made a 28' flybridge model, but I know they made a 30' Sedan Bridge in the late 90's.

I work in the marine industry and can't think of any other major manufacturers who produce flybridge boats in that size except maybe sportfisherman boats.

Answer 2

check Boats.com..there are a lot that meet your needs. do not buy bayliner.