Need Expert Advise

chetjet3

Recruit
Joined
Jul 15, 2002
Messages
1
Hello I am new to the sport of boating and looking for a nice roundabout for my family of 4 with small children (8 and 5 yrs). With all the choices out there in new boats, I was wondering if you folks could help guide me to a right choice.<br /><br />We are currently looking at a Maxum, VIP, Larson, and Glastron 18ft roundabout. Each say they have a claim to fame, up the hype is never backed up with data. <br /><br />Given the above, which boat is best for the family to enjoy boating? Is one better in quality than the other? What about the ride on the water? Is there a difference?<br /><br />Sorry so many questions, but this is a purchase not to be taken lightly.<br /><br />Thanks for the feedback<br /><br />Chet
 

Bob_VT

Moderator & Unofficial iBoats Historian
Staff member
Joined
May 19, 2001
Messages
26,082
Re: Need Expert Advise

You will not like this answer.<br /><br />Get the boat you can afford to maintain properly. Consider storage fees, winterizing and simple use maintenance. If you tow the boat consider what your car/truck will handle safely. They all will ride about the same. It's your preferance.<br /><br />Bob
 

KCook

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Jan 24, 2002
Messages
1,624
Re: Need Expert Advise

I'm no expert, but vee all have opinions :) <br /><br />You're right about the lack of hard data. Selecting a boat is very different from the car buying game.<br /><br />An 18' bowrider is as good a first boat as any. Very popular, with lots of models to choose from. As you found out.<br /><br />Quality is a tough call. There are lots of different aspects to judging quality. So you end up with lots of different opinions. The brands listed by chetjet3 are all modest in price, not the premimum brands. At this level, my druthers would be the Ebbtide 180 -<br />www.ebbtideboats.com/180bowrider.asp<br />As I said, just one opinion.<br /><br />If the budget would stretch some, there are more pricey boats worth a look. Such as the Chaparral 183, Crownline 180, and Four Winns 180.<br /><br />Whatever you get, go for the V6 choice on the motor.<br /><br />Small bowriders are a popular topic on the message boards. Here are some other threads -<br /><br />www.goboatingamerica.com/cgi-bin/ubb/Forum1/HTML/000967.html<br /><br />www.trailerboats.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic&f=2&t=000004<br /><br />In the end, you will have to go with your gut,<br />Kelly Cook
 
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