On a scale from one to ten with ten being the best, how would you rate the new 2000 Regal bowrider boat?

Question

If anyone ownes a Regal boat, feel free to talk about the overall experience with the company. Also if there are any suggestions on a better 20ft bowrider in the mid to low 30,000 i would love to hear them. Thanks

Answer 1

Regal manufactures superb boats with good resale.  There are many competitors in this category with price range indicated.  You may want to shop SeaRay, Monterey, Four Winns as well.  Bayliners are less because they are built to lessor standards and not nearly the quality of boat.

Engines in all will either be Volvo or Mercury.  Power plants vary in Horse Power and pricing as well.  Do not under-power your boat to save money because you will not be happy.  

When shopping boats items to look for, some manufacturers will offer a 20' boat that is actually an 18' with a 2' platform added.  Actually lean against the windshield for strength test, look and feel how the upholstery feels and is assembled.  I think you will find Regal and other competitors in your range very close in detail.

This is the time for "boat shows" all over the country.  This is where you get the deals because dealers move about 40% of annual sales at these shows.  Negotiate service, trailer, warranty, etc.

Most important, make certain you have the vehicle and proper tow package to pull the boat.  The brochures indicate boat weight only.  Fuel is approximately 7# per gallon and the trailer approx. 1,000#.  I always added about 200 to 300 additional pounds for gear, coolers, equipment, etc.

Happy boating.

Answer 2

No boat with me ever gets a 10 but I will say that I like Regal as a company.  They build upscale boats that compete with Sea Ray but they normally cost much less.  Canadians love this builder as well as many Europeans.  The American Market is just now realizing how good a boat these folks build.  Due to their good customer service, quality of outfitting, use of high end gel-coat I would give them a 9 to a 9.2. The bowrider in question would get a solid 9 on my 1 to 9.5 scale.  (No one is perfect) I hope this helps you in your decision.