I'd have to agree with the Ranger not being ideal for Winni. On a lake where you can't be really be on the hook for overnighting, it's kind of a waste. I could definitely see putting down the intracoastal and doing some exploration. Over here, the Ranger Tug would be a great weekender, and something to take through the locks and down to NYC for a nice long cruise.
As for sales? This is no longer the era of home equity loans and inflated prices. Designers have been working hard, and have come up with some great new designs for this model year. You'll pay for it. While some deals are around, in general, boats cost more now than they did in 2007. Dealers are not stocked with tons of models, and are there to sell what they have to people with cash, and/or real credit.
2009 was the year for those with cash to buy boats relatively cheap. For those looking to move up, trades will probably be much better, but the gap between your trade and the new boat will be wider. Such is the world of expensive toys
