Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

I've been boating with my father since I was in diapers, and have a pretty good grasp on most general things. However, I don't know too much about offshore boats, and mfg particulars. Looking for a boat built between '95 and '02. I'll be using it in the ocean and at the river/lake. As much as I like speed, its not my first priority. It would be nice to be in the 80+ range, but not necessary. Amenities and reliability are more important. 60 +/- cruise speed would be nice.

My 1st pick is a 38' Cigarette Top Gun. I love the lines of the boat, and the layout of the cabin. Of course, they seem to go for a pretty penny.

Others are Donzi and Formula, maybe Baja. Baja seems to be cheaper that others- is there a relationship with quality?

What are your suggestions between these boats? Any years where there are significant changes that make older boats worth excluding (hull, etc)? So far it seems that 500 EFIs are great motors, and should move most boats pretty well. What about 525/575 SCs? Relaible? Some boats are making big power 650-800hp blown.. should I just stay away from those? Obviously it "depends" but in general, what hp is still reliable? Any engines that I should just avoid?


I'm looking to spend between 100-150K. Dont mind spending extra for a clean boat with the right things done to it.

Thanks in advance

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

should we call you "lucky trick" now:D

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

Sounds like you just described a Formula 382 to a tee.

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

I saw that one - not crazy about the graphics but its a very nice boat.

Also - what is silent choice exhaust? Is that when you can open/close the muffler?

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

Hey Fred can change the grafics. He's done it before. :D

Take your time looking. There is a lot availible in that price range. Get a marine survey before your purchase to make sure the boat is at good as it looks. It will be money well spent.

Good luck

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

38 ft ? For your first boat ?? Sweeeeeeettttttttt!!!!! :D

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

Fred's boat is very nice, if it's not to your liking look at some of the Hustlers in the classified section. They seem to be priced just a little bit under the Cigs with same power and year. Personally my next choice will be Cig but I will take a good look around at other boats before I make up my mind.

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

My next boat will be a TG. I'll probably PO a lot of Fountain and Formula owners, but I don't think anything compares with a Cigarette for looks and recognition factor.

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

Yea, 38 is probably bigger than most 1st boats.. but ive grown up with a 22, 28, 36, and now my old man has a 50. If I can handle those, figure it shouldnt be too tough getting used to a 38. Granted, his were all cabin cruisers.

Looks like I should be solid with Cig or Formula. I dont like the windshield look as much but again, form over function or v.v.

So what advice can you guys give me when it comes to engines, etc or my other questions?

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

all i can say if ya can afford a gun go for it. all of us that own them cann't talk bad about them, thir the chit :evilb: if ya go with an older onr ya will need big power to move them but it's a ride that compare to no other

donz jr mike

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

With boats you don't always get what you pay for but in the case of Cigarette you do. My Cig is 20 years old and the rigging is still better than most of the other brands new boats. There is really something to be said about an '85 that runs through a 2 ft chop with occasional 3's and 4's and doesn't rattle, creak, moan or flex. I've been boating for 25 years, I've been a salesman for Cigarette, Baja, Formula, Skater, Outerlimits and have been through and been in many used boats from many manufacturers and I will probably never own anything other than a Cigarette, maybe an Outerlimits, maybe a Formula but when it really comes down to dropping some real money on a toy I don't think I'd stray from Cig. Don't forget...Quality does not cost, it pays.

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

There is a 36' Baja for sale in the Baja section that has been through extensive and recent upgrades for under $90k and it is said to run with a lot of 38's. Worth a shot !! :drink:

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

Havasu Hound's? Saw that one, possibility for the price.

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

If you want enjoyable power boating and more time in the water: Get a boat with merc racing engines (blue motors) Resale is better. Dont go with any custom engines - Stay stock. But 80 MPH may be a stretch with most 38's and stock power. EFI no carbs. Stay away from blower motors.

Unless you really need it dont go for Gen set Air or microwave etc... I Rairly use mine. Port a potty with a pump out, bimini and a fridge are a good thing.

Dont rush into anything, Do your homework and get test drives. There will ALWAYS be other boats available.

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

Yup, seen it in person and it looks great and I think is a tremendous value. You could run it for a year or two and probably sell it for what you paid , save some money in the process and then buy whatever your heart desires and checkbook can handle next go round.

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

Mine is for sale in the OSO classifieds. It is VERY comperable to a Top Gun. The ride, rigging, fit & finish like no other.

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

I can't believe nobody has gone here, but a 38' go-fast ain't nothing like a cruiser. I've been boating all my life like you, but all my seat time (over the last four decades) has been in numerous powerboats. And the last 5 were fast boats. I feel that I am now experienced enough to own a TG, which I would also love to have BTW.

Good luck in your endeavor.

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

Thanks Raypanic -

blaniac, I'll look into his boat. Doesnt it have blue motors?

Warparty, is that a Cheif?

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

Does he know what it is going to cost to keep a go fast running. Between broken drives, motor rebuilds and fuel. Probably the biggest thing that catches first time performance people is the cost to run them and keep them running.

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

Thank you - I do realize the responsibility. It comes down to respect and knowing your limits. A lot like riding a motorcycle in those terms. Its easy to mash the throttle and point it somewhere, but its what you do in unforseen circumstances that gets you into trouble, or poor judgement.

I'll take it easy. I just hate buying something especially this expensive and then regretting it shortly after.

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

Have a 98 388 Slingshot for $105,000.

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

Any more pics /link for the 388?

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

Brav it is a Bob Scaccenti built Apache Warrior. Mercruiser 525 SC's and Bravo's.

http://www.offshoreonly.com/esvon/page-6981.html

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

i got a cig for ya, time for me to deal, i have a 42 i want, call me 314-420-2619 lets deal, need quick sale, have trailer

http://boats.com/listing/boat_detail...e&showMD=false


Randy Wild

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

Yes, recently rebuilt Merc 500's if memory serves me correct

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

Send me an email and i'll send your more pics.

Link

http://www.offshoreonly.com/classifi...&cat=25&page=1

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

http://www.offshoreonly.com/esvon/page-2696.html

this is our boat in classifieds

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

Thanks for the pics HiPerf2000.

Have any closeups of the interior stitching and the stress cracks?

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

Sounds like you have a good head on your shoulders Brav. I thought about my original post. I think I am more envious of the fact that you can afford a TG as your first boat than I am concerned about your experience. I'm jealous dude! :cool:

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

that 36 apache is sweet not to wild about the paint but hey it's an apache :evilb: which is the brother of a cig

jr

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

Very nice looking boat Randy, just wish it had 525's or 575's in her .. :drink:

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

Had my eye on this, it can be bought right! I can put you in touch w/ owner if interested
http://adcache.boattraderonline.com/6/5/2/80015652.htm

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

Thanks Macklin and Trick, appreciate it.

jmackin, I looekd at that boat. One of the better looking cigs ive seen, however I need more than a covergirl cabin. Need head, vberth, kitchenette, etc. Will be staying over on the boat at times. Dont think it would be cost effective to change it out.

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

Head and kit. are worthless in a Topgun except for slowing you down. Slept on both and I'll take cover girl any day for sleeping.

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

Check Your P.m.

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

I think a 386 Sonic with 575's and XR drives would be a perfect boat for you. They have very large cabins with 6' of head room. A stand up head, a television and plenty of storage space. No steps so they have a very stable, safe ride. Good idea for a first boat.

For the right money I know where you may be able to get one. :D It would look kind of like this.

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

You should be able to find a nice fresh water Hustler Slingshot in that price range. Good luck with your search.

Re: Looking to get 1st boat, need advice on 38'
 

Was the Formula at the previously posted link (http://www.offshoreonly.com/esvon/page-7174.html) just recently sold? The ad worked yesterday but now it's gone...