The problem with an older 30+ twin engine boat, is that the purchase price is the cheapest part. When you only paid 20K for it, and is only worth 20K, it is really hard to justify spending the money to maintain and repair.

Like the Chris Cat above. I would be all over that, but could see spending at least the purchase price on repairs and maintenance in a matter of 1-2 years of normal use. That is being generous and assuming that the motors are good.

Carrera with Twin O/B's 24 OAL with Braket 27'. Need interior work but can be had for 1/2 of what you want to spent on a trailer. Runs 70-73 motors have 80 Hours.
-Mike

I have a dodge 2500 with cummins. Pulling that cafe would be no problem. I like that old chris cat but I see where you are coming from on the cost of maintenance.

If you don't have good motors, outdrives, interior, and gel coat, you are going to spend a bunch to restore it. Make sure it's a boat worth restoring and your enjoyment. Each of those items above is an easy $5k.

Need a cabin or is a 3man acceptable?

Some of these replies.....man

Come on buying a boat, and being worried about what it will cost. They all cost alot. Some boats you pay for the name, what does it get you, an old boat with a name? Let's face it for 20k he is looking at an older boat. Probably gonna need some work, some more, some less.

I think we should tell him to save his money. Put it in the bank and let it grow, because getting a boat is a great way to piss away 20K.

Yup buying any toy is a great way to spit money in the can, but why wait? Let him get use to somehtign mid range and in a few years go bigger. You only live once and when the ride is over you dont get another round. Enjoy life and buy what is in your means and for your style of boating. No matter what we all lose money on these thing. Just nature of the animal
-Mike

+1 with this guy
-Mike