Last year I bought a well used 18 foot BR runabout. I fixed some problems it had, and I have used it a few times and now looking for a different kind of boat. The runabout is a good little boat, but completely impractical for what I want a boat for. I want a boat that is lower maintenance than what I have now (wood free, no carpet/ upholstery) that is geared more for short afternoon fishing trips at my local lake, but something that I can still take the family to the coast with once a year and have fun knee boarding (etc). I would also like something that is rated for 8 people minimum. And my budget is 25K tops. I would prefer to buy new, since I'm relatively inexperienced and don't really know what to look for in a used boat.
As for the type of boat, I think that a 19-21ft center console bay boat might be the answer. I have been looking at a Nautic Star 20ft bay boat. What thoughts do you guys have as to whether this type of boat would fit the ticket? Would a boat like this be practical for me? Is it safe to take this off shore close to the beach, or is this strictly an inland boat? Any other suggestions?
As for the type of boat, I think that a 19-21ft center console bay boat might be the answer. I have been looking at a Nautic Star 20ft bay boat. What thoughts do you guys have as to whether this type of boat would fit the ticket? Would a boat like this be practical for me? Is it safe to take this off shore close to the beach, or is this strictly an inland boat? Any other suggestions?