LI sound boat questions

[stevenjf]

I currently own a 17' skiff that I use for in-shore fishing applications and open water (when it's calm). the boat is comfortable for 2, tolerable for 3, and intolerable for 4. center console design leaves no escape from elements. primary waters are western long island sound. I would like to purchase a larger boat that can handle 4 people comfortably on a day trip, and 2 people comfortably on an overnight. from my experience with other boats, I feel a minimum size of 24' is required in this area. I do not want anything larger than 27'. an express would be the preferred style (older blackfin, pursuit 2700, etc.). the friends I have with experience in boating encourage me to stay away from I/O designs due to higher maintenance costs.<br /><br />In the context of a 24-27' boat, what are the pros/cons of<br /><br />- inboard vs. outboard vs. I/O<br />- single vs. twin engine<br /><br />do you have opinions on manufacturers, pro or con?

 

[B_Eager]

Re: LI sound boat questions

Inboard or Keel drive has disavantages in shallow water. As to upkeep, you got me never owned one.<br />Inboard Outboard has advantages in shallow water but has high matinance cost especialy when it gets older.<br />Outboard is a good choice, twins is better then a single as to breakdowns you can still limp in, but that can be solved with just a 10 horse kicker motor.<br />I actualy went jet drive with my new boat, for they do not have shifter spools, water pump impellers, etc, and are excellent in shallow water.<br />I am also a LI boater and that is important depending on where you moor, fish or anchor.

 

[jeff_nicholas]

Re: LI sound boat questions

Why so big?<br /><br />My wife, daughter and I spent 3 days/2 nights aboard on LIS in a 15'11" cuddy with a camper back.<br /><br />Today I run an 18 1/2' Seaswirl W/A. My wife and I often spend 3 nights aboard at a time (never going ashore); I've been out alone considerably longer. The boat has been up and down the entire ICW, to the Keys and Bahamas. It's a pleasure both on and off the trailer. It regularly does 4 people with picnic and swimming supplies.<br /><br />Twins? I find that I budget a given amount of time/money for maintenance. If I had twins they'd each get 1/2 as much attention and for $100 I get unlimited towing, but wait, maybe it would be better to spend 8 grand for another motor to 'get home'?<br /><br />Outboard vs I/O? On a boat my size you don't have room for a motor inside the boat.<br /><br />Manufacturers? My Seaswirl isn't top of the line, but I doubt there's a better value. And my outboard? 115 Ficht! Head and shoulders above my previous Yammy and clearly preferable to my Honda. I'd buy another Ficht in a heartbeat.<br /><br />The only thing I don't get with my small rig is bragging rights. But then I do get do talk about the places I've been and how often I can afford to go.<br /><br />I'm not suggesting that my boating philosophy is right for others; but on the chance that it might be, I offer the perspective.<br /><br />And guess what? With the money I saved by going small - I put a/c on my boat for those sultry days of cruising and stuffy nights at anchor.<br /><br />When you get the rig you want, let me know -- we can buddy boat to Block Island.

 

[Reel Appeal]

Re: LI sound boat questions

Steven,<br /> Greater size may be a little more comfortable.But,more importantly is the layout of the boat and hull weight.I have a 22'Aquasport cuddy fisherman(sleeps 2).I day fish usually between 7-10 miles out.It is equipped w/a single Johnson 225 and kicker(stowed).I'am not a fan of I/O's(too many moving parts),higher maintenance.Inboard or outboard for me thanks.<br />In general,I/O's require more maintenance than inboards or outboards.Outboards use a little more fuel(oil) than I/O's or Inboards.Outboard boats tend to be faster(higher rpm's) than I/O's or inboards of equal horsepower.Inboard and I/O's tend to ride a little smoother than outboards(increased weight/low center gravity).Single engines are more fuel effiecent than twins,although twins are extra insurance in the event of a breakdown.Twins are preferred for offshore fishing.With that said,I think I have the best of both worlds.Single engine w/a kicker motor for trolling or breakdown.You may not get in fast,but at least you will get back in(without help).