27daytona

All the above horror stories are true. I live though the expense every day but when you are on the water and everything runs, my smile tells me that it's worth every dime. As far as advice buy the longest length, fresh water, single engine, stock power with a bravo outdrive that is in your budget. Then after a year of boating your budget will no longer exist and you will crave a bigger and faster ride and that is how the addiction grows. Good luck. Doug

East Coast B

My advice.... Go to the boat shows, dealers, marinas, boat docks and launches and see what appeals to you. Then come back here with some models that you would like first hand insight on as well as search www.boattrader.com for prices.

Put a list together of what your requirements are? Speed, creature features, ride, etc. If your running rough water, every foot and pound counts toward a better ride, but you'll give up performance... blah blah blah...

As like many people, I ***** and moan about the cost..... until I've got the throttle in hand and running through the inlet... then it's worth every penny! Priceless!

Last piece of advice, spend your money once, get what you want, because to turn a boat around, you will likely lose money every time.

Good Luck!!!