[jrncpa]

Looking to move up from my 18 1/2 ' walkaround to something that is big enough to go from Niantic Ct out to off of Block Island or Montauk tuna/shark grounds with 1 or 2 caynon runs per season, yet has the comforts so the boss (aka wife) will spend a few weekends on it.

Boats we are considering include (but not limited to)
1996 2870 Pursuit Walkaround twin 200hp yamahas
1997 2950 Proline twin 250hp mercruiser 5.7lx
2001 Wellcraft 297 Coastal twin 225hp yamahas
1998 29 Mako Sport Fisherman (293) Twin Merc EFI 250hp
1993 30' Luhrs Sport Fisherman 300 Tornament Twin 270hp Marine Power inboards
1996 2870 Pursuit Offshore twin 200hp yamahas
1996 Hydra Sport 3100SF (not sure of power)
1997 Pro Line 2810 Walkaround twin Johnson Ocean runner 225 hp
2000 30' Pro Line express Twin Merc o/b 2325hp
1996 Luhrs 290 Open Tornament 310hp Marine Power 350 EFI

Your opinions and comments regarding all (deadrise, ride, power, fuel etc etc etc)would be helpful
Thanks

 

[loonzter]

Check the thread Dr fish posted on dead rise and weight, it might give you some facts to consider in your purchase.

 

[615175]

Wow! That's quite a jump from an 18.5' boat up to a 30' express.

You've got a lot of apples to oranges comparisons among those boats and a pretty wide price spread I imagine too.

Of the boats isted, the only one that I have specific experience with is the Luhrs 290 and I would not recommend it. The thirsty gas inboards are a killer, range is poor and the operating costs are high. Diesel engines are a better choice for that hull.

What I recommend is narrowing your focus. Make a few key decisions first, rather than just blindly looking at boats. I assume you already have a slip to keep the boat in. In most areas that can be your first limiting factor.

Decide on the following:

Express or walkaround - Decide on which style of boat fits your needs best.

Type of power: outboard, sterndrive or inboard - There can be tremendous differences in the operating costs and long term reliability of the different power platforms. They each have their advantages and disadvantages.

Price range - Set a maximum price and stick to it. I assume you will be financing the boat so consider what kinds of rates and terms you can get on older versus newer boats.

Once you have made these decisions work with a broker in your area to find the right boat. You are looking at spending a lot of money, it makes sense to work with qualified professionals.

Lastly, take your time. The search for the right boat could take a year or more.