Some help on bowrider choice

[Tafflad]

I am in UK .. sold my boat last month so looking to buy a used (1yr old) runabout - for Saltwater recreational towed sports use.
I have brought my shortlist down to 2 manufacturers / models .... and would be interested in any with experience of either giving me some pros/cons ......... both are reputable boats.

I have my choice to these 2 for a number of reasons, have had to discard other options.

Monterey 194fs (204fs) - same hull name different branding

Chaparral 196 ssi

both are comparable size and provide cockpit area space I am looking for.

Welcome any comments.

 

[haulnazz15]

Re: Some help on bowrider choice

I prefer the looks of the Chaparral myself. I like the flip-out divider for the bow seating that will cut off cool breezes when running in colder weather. The interior fabric design looks a little classier as well, including the helm layout. They will functionally be identical though, imo. Just get a V8 if you can in either boat.

 

[Tafflad]

Re: Some help on bowrider choice

I'll be looking to find a 12month old version .. hopefully with the 5.OL MPI.
I am in the UK, but will be looking to find a boat 'on-line' in the US and import it .... saving at lest 30% of equivalent boat in UK even after paying all shipping & import costs.

 

[Mason78]

Re: Some help on bowrider choice

I have seen several locals with Chaparrals, they are really nice boats. Is there much price difference between them?

I thought Chaparrals were on the high end of runabouts?

 

[rallyart]

Re: Some help on bowrider choice

The Chaparrals have always seemed a nicer boat to me when I've been in them. Just my opinion though.

 

[Tafflad]

Re: Some help on bowrider choice

My understanding is that Chaparral & Monterey are very similar in build quality, handling, and price.
Both at higher end of runabouts.

 

[MJG24]

Re: Some help on bowrider choice

My understanding is that Chaparral & Monterey are very similar in build quality, handling, and price.
Both at higher end of runabouts.

Agree. Can't go wrong with either. Just comes down to personal preference.

 

[Tafflad]

Re: Some help on bowrider choice

Agree. Can't go wrong with either. Just comes down to personal preference.

Just to close the loop .... I now have a very nice Monterey 194fs (same boat renamed as 204fs) .... mint condition and only 5 Hrs on the engine.