One of his requirements was "fast" ...that rules out a TopGun, End of Discussion...

active thunder
pantera

Especially when compared to a 35 Fountain.

you know of an AT between 35-38 for $80?

so a Fountain 35 will out preform a cigarette top gun

active thunder pantera seems to be out of my price range (why would this be better than a fountain?)

Can anyone tell me when step hauls came in to play?

in addition to the fountain, i'd look at sonic's. they have a big cabin for overnighting.

Also, formula, hustler, and scarabs.

Each boat shines at different things, If your not going out in the rough then the fountain will probably be faster, If you go out in the rough a 38 cig is hard to beat. If you want roomy the cig wins again.... Find some boats you'd consider buying and have the owner/Dealer take you out fo a while, any doubt, rule it out....

Yes; er-- at least pretty close. This boat will sell for less than $90K. I've known the boat since new. It's in fantastic shape with no history or issues. It was originally commissioned for a (Skater) racer who thought about going F2. Hence it is light and fast; but it has full amenities including AC & Generator since it was his pleasure boat. He later sold it to his employee who still owns it. Both of them are OSO members. It's whole life was in VA except for the last 18 months or so; when the owners moved to FL to start a new business. It's probably been dunked in the salt only 10 times.

do you know how I could get in touch / see some pics?

Depends on what you mean by "Outperform"....Is it faster in smooth water ? Yes...Is it a better ride in the rough? No...Is it as well built? No..Does it have the same room ? No..Is it as "dry" a ride ? No