I like allot of the boats mentioned in here, but Id also take a look at the 26 sutphen rum runner or a 30 ocean pacer, great heratige, lots of racing titles, great rough water capabilities, wide hull forward of the windsheild giving allot of cabin space, and a graduated 26 degree deadrise!

The fit and finish of a sutphen is amazing too.

heres some sutphens for sale
http://www.powerboatlistings.com/sutphen/

Since I'm new to this I'm just going to find something simple..I really appreciate all the advice..I'll definately be asking for more advice..If you guys were"Bass fisherman" I wouldn't stand a chance..I'm just going to have to be in awe of what you other guys have..You guys have some really awesome boats..I see its a Endless Addiction...Thanks

Raylar has some great engines, but expensive for the power you get. The 496HO is just junk as it comes stock. Sorry, but it is true.

My 28 cat went 100 on bone stock 496's. What would a 28 V-hull run with same power, 80mph maybe.

and

original post asked about an entry level, first timer powerboat.
I feel a 25 - 30 ft boat with a 496 ho is a great boat for that situation. A great turn key that delievers many performing hours with basic maintainence. txsdukhntr also stated a budget of 30k. If you working on budgets your certainly not looking for major upgrades on engines. I hope txsdukhntr the best and believe that his most reliable choice would be with a 496.

Ughhhhh, slow your roll Elimnordic. First of all, the superboat y2k does 78 with a single 496ho. I'd imagine with twins, it's be in the mid 80's to 90's. If you could put twins in a kryptonite, lavey, or phantom, I'd guess those same numbers. Second of all, the 496HO is a great motor for WHAT IT IS. You could leave those WOT all day and never break down. Actually, my buddy with the y2k would do that-- and he loved them. Thirdly, I'd rather be going 70mph in 3 footers in a V than not being able to touch a 3 footer going more than 40mph in a cat. You're not comparing apples to apples. Cats, especially smaller cats are good for lake water, especially if your a beginner boater! If you have any kind of rough water, stay away from cats as a beginner. They're much less forgiving than a v hull and insurance will be nearly impossible to obtain, not to mention EXPENSIVE.

Yeah I didnt understand that rant.

Anyways OP hope you find what you want. A lot of people directly or indirectly plugging their boats and guys talking about 100mph boats and boats that are 35ft long. Yeah well good luck. I suggest 24-27ft single engine. Stay away from these big 500 plus blocks, superchargers, turbos, etc. until you get your feet wet.

What are you not understanding

I would definitely say ,that any cat, in any configuration is not a beginners boat.. You want a nice stable, forgiving, easy to handle boat.. and sure,, if you can get something with a motor you can modify in the future , go for it.. Just remember , just because you can afford to buy it , doesnt make it the right boat for you..