If you want ultimate performance and handling with ease of maintenance then go full staggered; '07 and newer 35 Lightnings. Think of it as a race boat with a compromised pleasure cockpit. If you're not willing to compromise cockpit space, then just get the side by side version;'06 and older- knowing you're giving up performance (both speed plus handling) and it will be no fun working in the engine bay.

Boats should be judged on how well they run at speed, not how easy they are to dock. Take the extra 8-10 mph speed in a full staggered version and use a little wheel input around the docks for best results.

Don't forget about the price difference. You can probably find a pristine side by side Fountain with 525s for 90 - 100 k where the staggered (07+) is 40 - 50k more. I love my old 05, but would trade it in a New York minute for a 07+ if I had the extra money. Either way they are great boats (Fourmula included)

Here is an 07 with 600s in Ontario, I believe priced in Canadian $. Very honest and helpful Marina.

http://www.birchpointmarina.com/2007...061&in-stock=1

That'd be a fun boat!

I've done single, done twins. Only thing I could see me giving my current ride up for is a staggered boat.

Sooo much room in a staggered compared to a side by side. I couldn't hardly work on my Fountain (side by side) and this Nor Tech, I could sleep in there.

Gents hate to burst your bubble but talk Zero Patience and Lock & Load in the cigarette forum and they will tell you that working around all that exhaust plumbing and saddle tanks is no picnic . Be careful what you ask for . Each configuration has its advantages . But nothing beats the cool factor of a staggered engine room .
Cheers RG.

Ok, I'll give you that. It was a PITA to change the raw water pump on the forward engine on the Nor Tech. It is give and take, but I'll take the stagger.

My 35 Fountain side by side is a breeze to work on. I can sit or lay down in front of the motors and that's with two fenders and a 2'x 3' aluminum box in front of the them as well. One of the easiest boats I've worked on. Start to finish Port motor came out on Saturday in 20 minutes. Drive stayed on and will stay on when the motor goes back in this weekend. 353 Formula is a terrible boat to work on. Everything you do is on your head. Forget about doing any work on the outboard sides of the motors. A 353 Formula is more like working on a 32 Fountain. Just a constant up hill battle.