OT; Ideas on a runabout
 

OK, the boss has spoken. It appears we need to get a small runabout this year. We're looking for a late model 18 or 19 foot open bow for the family. Does anyone have any experience with Four Winnd Horizons or Crownline Bowriders? We would like to use it for a little sking with the kids. Any other thoughts as to manufacturers we should look at?

Mark:confused:

Yes it is

Keith

Check out the early 90's Baja Islanders and the 190 DSR....

Tommy
1990 190DSR :D

Depends on what you want, I had a stingray and for the type of hull and power they run pretty fast. Fit and finish was OK, nothing like a Pantera, but much better than a bayliner.

I've got a NICE 21' Ebbtide for sale....
 

Here are some pictures - email or PM me if you're interested. Less than $20k, and better than new. (Even has CMI headers...)
Ebbtide 2100 Mystique

Crownline
 

Playn,

I currently own a Crownline, and we love it! :D


I suggest you go to the Crownline Website and post on their Forum.

Good luck! :cool:

Several friends well-pleased with Crownline. Four Winns also a decent boat.
I'd definitely look at used versus new for a runabout. My next door neighbor bought a 1984 Sea Ray 18' bowrider with a low-hour immaculately maintained 228horse Mercruiser and a matching flawless boat on a passable trailer for $5,000. He had me take a look at it before he bought it and I could find nothing wrong with it. Like a new boat, except for a pinched trim sender wire. He has owned it for 2 years now and it has given flawless service.

Not hyping sea rays, just pointing out that there are still a few creampuff older boats out there going for dirt. An indoor or garage kept boat might have less than 200 hours on it and be worth nothing according to "the book" so the seller has no choice but to sell it near book else nobody ever calls.

I saw a 21' Wellcraft Nova 260 Mercruiser go for $2,000 and it had a brand new crate (automotive) 350 Chev and a one-season Jasper reman outdrive. Those parts alone were worth $2,500. The boat needed a good buffing and new upholstery and carpet.

Re: Crownline
 

Playn
We have a Crownline as well and my family really enjoys it. Great boat and great service from the factory as well. As Clay said, go to the CL forum and check it out.

Rob

I'll check out those sites. Thanks for the feedback.

Crownline and Stingray are good choices. Stingray is probrably the fastest family bowrider you can buy,good fit and finish.