converting to center console

[deep]

I bought this boat last spring and after using it a few times i realized there is not enough room for what i want.It is 19 feet long and 5 feet of this is covered storage (wasted space).What i want to do is cut out the bow cover just leave a small area in the front for like anchor storage or something and put benches up front. Then build my own console to meet my needs.What are your thoughts?.....I'm not even sure what this boat is.I'm thinking it is some type of Thompson but not sure.

 

[ondarvr]

Re: converting to center console

It all depends on where you live and how you plan to use the boat.

Certain types of fishing in warm weather are where CC's work well.

Families tend to not like them and they become even less attractive to everyone the colder it becomes.

 

[deep]

Re: converting to center console

we use it for crusing mostly but i like to do some fishing and the wife would like to stop at some islands.it is only in the water usually from june till october.i just like the thought of being able to access the rails all the way around the boat.

 

[jonesg]

Re: converting to center console

It would be a lot simpler to pull the outboard off and sell the boat/trailer, then buy the boat you want. It can be done but you will spend a fair amount of time and money doing a conversion.

I found a center console that needed a rebuild, so I ended up with a CC with new transom , stringers, fuel tank etc. Paid $700 and spent around $2K.

Thing is, you're gonna start chopping it up only to find the wood substructure is due for replacement, they're usually worth more in their stock configuration.

 

[jonesg]

Re: converting to center console

we use it for crusing mostly but i like to do some fishing and the wife would like to stop at some islands.it is only in the water usually from june till october.i just like the thought of being able to access the rails all the way around the boat.

Then your plan to build bench seats isn't a good idea, mine has no seating fwd of the console, its a fishing boat. Purpose designed center consoles are better for fishing than bowriders. They also get wet up front.

 

[deep]

Re: converting to center console

ive also thought very much of that jonesg and i think that may be the best idea as i would like a flat bottom better then the deep v and i can build one new around here for about 3k so it may be my best option

 

[1fishbone]

Re: converting to center console

It would be a lot simpler to pull the outboard off and sell the boat/trailer, then buy the boat you want. It can be done but you will spend a fair amount of time and money doing a conversion.

I found a center console that needed a rebuild, so I ended up with a CC with new transom , stringers, fuel tank etc. Paid $700 and spent around $2K.

Thing is, you're gonna start chopping it up only to find the wood substructure is due for replacement, they're usually worth more in their stock configuration.

Good advice here^^^

Go and get the boat that suits your style.
If you chop up that one, it will only apeal to you!
In other words, if you try to sell it, not very many people will want a cuddy turned into a CC. Even if you're an expert craftsman!!

FYI I did this to a 27' fly bridge, cut the top/cabin off, put in a huge center console and a tower. I also made a low dodger to shield from the elements on rough days. A foot wide gunnel all the way around the hull, side to side framing etc etc etc.
As a 27' center console it was a better boat for me and easier to sell when it was it was time to move on.
There are not many 'cheap' 27' cc around, but literally hundreds of fly bridge boats!!!!

As for turning a 19' cuddy to a cc ...find the boat you need!