Im in a similar situation. Ive boated ever since I can remember, using my parents crownline all the time, but Im looking at buying MY first boat. Found a local used 27 Fountain thats in the mid 20's and is built better than my parents new crownline. Its in awsome shape. We also boat with quite a few people who have older big boats instead of smaller new ones. There's somthing to be said for having a brand new boat under warranty but not all of us have that kinda $. Like others have said, some older boats were built much better anyway.

I don't think it takes that long........ Up until this year I ran across Erie in a Baja 250 Force. It handled Erie well on a good day. I have riden in a friends Outlaw 24' and a new Outlaw 25'. I have to say honestly my Velocity 260 puts them to shame in the ride/comfort department. Velocity 260s & 280s can be had in the $30k range if you shop right. They are fast too. With a 496 mag (stock) the 260 can reach low 70s. I have been very impressed with the options and configuration of the Velocity as well.

I have heard that the pad bottom on a Velocity makes it a "drivers boat" and that they can take some getting used to. I have to say I have found the Velocity 260 very easy to drive, however I am an experienced boater with close to 20 years experience.

Of all the boats mentioned the twin engine Pantera 28 is at the top with the Powerplay #2. Both are rough water boats with proven race hulls. On Lake Erie you'll need all the boat you can get and those two provide that.

Just my .02

[Active Thunder as well if you can find a 28].

32 Hustler fit in?
-Mike

Going to have more freeboard on the PP, something to consider when plunking around in the slop.

I agree, I rode on a 40' triple 650 Hustler with what seemed like 5' of freeboard at the helm. A very secure feeling as we were in 3-4s and 30-35mph winds on a lake.

2350 pounds! is that a misprint? That would be a cool boat is he can get it in his price range.

some really good post so far. i dont mind going older and bigger. i just figured the cost of twin engines would be to much with fuel and upkeep. im going to consider 28+ ft now because i will be sleeping on it on the weekends and plan on using it every weekend. my old boat was a 24ft crusier and i would get beat up alot. i saw a 29 fountain 1992 with twin 502 any thoughts.

Also keep in mind the bigger boat the bigger TOW VEHICLE you will need. Most of the above mentioned can be towed with a large SUV, full size truck ( I am not getting into specifics) we can all do our own math and deciede what is safe for ourselves. Just don't try to pull a 30' twin engine boat with a Honda CRV.

PP or pantera

fountain no... a 29 has low freeboard a 26ft running surface and anchored in roller can take one over the rear and sink (think air show weekend)