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SeaDog · 02-15-2015, 10:17 PM

Hey Everyone,

I just wanted to put a quick request out there for general advice on a new boat purchase. We are at Samoset, moored right on the broads, and I owned a 17.5' foot Bayliner bowrider about 10 years ago. I loved it and only sold it when I had some changes in my life that dramatically cut down time for the boat and funds. Of course, I also remember some rough rides in and out of Samoset since I used it mostly on weekends and it got pushed around a little bit here and there.

I am eager to get back on the boat during the summers and headed to the boat show this week hoping I might find the right deal. Before getting the "advice" from any salesman, though, I thought I would get some advice on here.

First, recognizing that 17.5 feet does not quite equal comfort on the broads, what do you recommend as the minimum length? I have searched through the forum and seen a range of suggestions here. Also, what other measurements or features (beam, weight, etc) would you suggest I look at?

Second, any advice on the ideal boat style or even company would be appreciated. Mostly I used it for fishing and just cruising with the family around the lake. I recall someone telling me a deckboat may be a better choice than a bowrider. I got the Bayliner years back because it was affordable, but I also see on here it does not seem highly recommended? Cheap build? Open to other suggestions.

Thanks, in advance, for the advice and suggestions. If I do find the right deal I will be sure to follow up on here!

02-15-2015, 10:17 PM	#1
SeaDog Junior Member Join Date: Feb 2014 Posts: 3 Thanks: 11 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	New Boat Advice?? Hey Everyone, I just wanted to put a quick request out there for general advice on a new boat purchase. We are at Samoset, moored right on the broads, and I owned a 17.5' foot Bayliner bowrider about 10 years ago. I loved it and only sold it when I had some changes in my life that dramatically cut down time for the boat and funds. Of course, I also remember some rough rides in and out of Samoset since I used it mostly on weekends and it got pushed around a little bit here and there. I am eager to get back on the boat during the summers and headed to the boat show this week hoping I might find the right deal. Before getting the "advice" from any salesman, though, I thought I would get some advice on here. First, recognizing that 17.5 feet does not quite equal comfort on the broads, what do you recommend as the minimum length? I have searched through the forum and seen a range of suggestions here. Also, what other measurements or features (beam, weight, etc) would you suggest I look at? Second, any advice on the ideal boat style or even company would be appreciated. Mostly I used it for fishing and just cruising with the family around the lake. I recall someone telling me a deckboat may be a better choice than a bowrider. I got the Bayliner years back because it was affordable, but I also see on here it does not seem highly recommended? Cheap build? Open to other suggestions. Thanks, in advance, for the advice and suggestions. If I do find the right deal I will be sure to follow up on here!