I did go look at that 242LS and it actually seemed smaller than my 233LS. The 233LS was rated for 10 or 11 persons the 242 only 7. This is also a concern because sometimes we like to pack in like sardines and head down to the flats (30 min trip) and I want to be in compliance if the coast guard lights me up (happens at least once a season). The 242LS was nice but it had a bad crack in the gel by the trim tabs (which didn't work), the cabin had a terrible musty smell and the starboard bow had what looked to be a 2in hole that was patched and painted over. I would have to see it from the inside to know if it was repaired properly. I decided to pass on that one.

The 233LS seemed to have a longer sundeck also. My guess is the 233LS was measured without a swim platform and the 242LS was measured with the integrated platform, so it is indeed a smaller boat.

I added a Baja Force 265 to the list.

10-11 People in a 23' non-bow rider boat?

I had 11 in my 223LS a couple times, but it was 6 adults and 5 children all of which were < 8 years old. They played in the cuddy most of the time, it definitely wasn't the most comfortable ride but it's only 20 minutes to the local sandbar. :)

Having the boat filled is only a one or two time thing per season but I definitely need the rating in case the Coast Guard stops us. 5 on top and 3 in the bottom can't be any more cramped than a 20-foot bowrider with 8 people and again this is only on rare occasions. Typically it is 2 or 4 plus a 40lb dog.

I think I saw you in the Flats
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Holy moly. That's one was to adjust your bridge clearance.

That does look like Burke in the background....SMH, that is definitely an accident waiting to happen. Maybe i'll come up with a new invention and I'll just go straight for a SR311.

Buy the biggest, best boat your budget and tow vehicle can handle.

Sure I can't change your mind?

http://s1006.photobucket.com/user/97...h%20For%20Sale

I wish I could afford that boat, but I have to stick to my priorities. I did go look at another boat, It needs some cosmetic attention but otherwise it is in good shape and the price is right. I do have 1 concern with some fiberglass on the engine mount. Have a look. Is this just de-lamination from age or is this a sign of a more serious problem. This is where the engine stringers meet the fuel tank bulkhead. I can do basic glass work, but I don't want to get in over my head. it definitely doesn't look like it was feathered in good at the factory. The guy is willing to let me drill it to check for rot or have it surveyed. The engine was upgraded to a 502 a couple years back.


http://i67.tinypic.com/2ylljj5.jpg