My parents are looking to get a new boat ~20' open bow (our winter storage has limited us to this length). Plus we just use it on a river so we don't need any bigger. They currently have a 1997 20' Cobalt w/ a 350 merc. It's been a great boat. Our previous boats were Sea-rays and have good luck with all. Best luck with the Cobalt. A new 20' Cobalt will cost about $55k optioned out w/ ~300hp. I think it's a little steep. Especially, due to the fact that the 20' Cobalt hasn't changed much since 97. They don't really care about price, but I just think there might be a better value out there. I looked at Donzi and Christ Craft but didn't see anything we'd be interested in.

That said, what is comparable to a 20' Cobalt as far a quality, craftsmanship and reliability?

One other thing, I kind of like the deck boats, seem very user-friendly for boarding \ unboarding, pretty roomy, how do they handle, ride compared to a 20' vee? We just use the boat to cruise the river and occasionally go skiing, etc.

Thanks Guys/Gals.

I don't see how you could go wrong with another Cobalt. They have an enviable reputation in the industry. They cost more but they are well built and retain value well.

Cobalts are great boats, if you are looking for something different check out Caravelle, Cownline, Tahoe, Four Winns, and Regal.

In that size and class, make sure they check out Chaparral. They make quite a nice boat at reasonable prices.

Cobalt just introduced the 222 bowrider. It is on their website... looks nice. I agree that their pricing is high, but they seem to hold their value.

Cobalts are very well made boats!

Ditto. Friend of mine has had several smaller ones, and is now on his second 28'. He can't say enough good about them.

agree, they make a great boat. They handle rough water great, because they are tanks.... a 20' tips the scales at 3950 lbs. With 300hp it won't even break 50 mph. My 24' Baja would do 67 w/ 310 hp. Anyway, totally forgot about Chaparral, will take a look now. Mariah used to make nice boats but they're done.

thanks guys.

ive been on plenty regal, crowns, and searays....all very good.

you can get a crownline 20 LPX w/ 320 horse or a 22LPX w/425 horse....should be a fun river boat.

How about Monterey.....they have some really cool stuff!

I've got a 260 SSi Chaparral that I'm pretty happy with. Crownline makes a nice boat as well.