1988 Mako or 1994 Dusky

boatunc

Recruit
Joined
Jan 10, 2008
Messages
5
So many people on this forum have been helpful that I wanted to ask a final question. I want to purchase a boat and I'm down to two boats and going to look at them and possibly purchase one tomorrow. I like them both but am very new to boating and would like to know what everyone's opinions were on the two boats and which boat you would rather buy, here goes:

1994 Dusky 203 (20') with T-top, leaning post, full transom with dusky drive, tim tabs. Engine is a 2001 Johnson 200hp that had the powerhead rebuilt 3 months ago and has a 1 year warranty on the rebuild. It had 300-400 hrs on the engine before the rebuild and 15 hours on it since. Boat condition is good. Asking price is $8900.

dusky.jpg


1988 Mako 21' with T-top (that includes tuna tower), leaning post, has a custom-built transom with big dive platform bracket, trim tabs. Engine is a 1999 yamaha saltwater series 200hp, with "not many" hours. Comes with 2006 Continental galvanized steel trailer. Asking price is $10,000.



Which one would you guys perfer? Which one should I get if I'm going to primarily use it nearshore in Miami and mostly for diving.

Thanks!
 

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januarysails

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Dec 18, 2007
Messages
43
Re: 1988 Mako or 1994 Dusky

I had a very simular choice to make this summer. Both of your boats look to be in good shape from the pics. I did not and don't like the replaced power head. When it comes time for you to sell or upgrade your boat you too will have to explain the powerhead. "Not many hours" can mean alot of things. Find out how many. For the hulls make sure you check for rot, soft deck and transom. Look for leaks in the steering and oil res. Good luck either one you choose, you'll have a great summer.
 

tashasdaddy

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Nov 11, 2005
Messages
51,019
Re: 1988 Mako or 1994 Dusky

my choice with all equal in condition, Mako.
 

crb478

Lieutenant Junior Grade
Joined
Dec 6, 2006
Messages
1,036
Re: 1988 Mako or 1994 Dusky

Depending on how many the "not many" hours are on the engine I would also lean toward the Mako especially for diving. It looks easier to get in and out of and is a foot longer. I would also suspect that the Tuna tower would give you a better base to attach you scuba tanks.
 
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