Looking for some help on boat purchase
 

What’s up guys. New member here. I’m looking for some advise. Just sold my Checkmate 2400LD cause the wife was complaining about the rough ride. And I do agree, it was rough. Like headache after boating in the Chesapeake Bay rough. I feel the design of the Pulsare was good, but just not enough freeboard and weight to handle the “Real” 2-3’ ers and all the big boat wakes.

So I’m thinking of the following boats: keep in mind, perfect boat would be 28’, outboards, offshore hull, stand up bolsters.

28’ Pantera (hard to find)
28’ Active Thunder
29’ Fountain
28’ Powerplay

any other suggestions? Really want something at least 75-80mph range, preferably 80+. I love outboards, and I know most of the new boats are coming with them, but new $150k boat money isn’t a option for me right now. Trying to stay in the >$50k budget. Reason I’m staying in the 28’ range is to stay with single engine. Though twin outboards wouldn’t bother me at all. Just so much money can be spent replacing stuff in I/O and fuel consumption issues. Outboards are pretty bullet proof.

I would include s Velocity 280 or 290.

Padraig

Use to love the easy velocity’s , not a fan of the looks of the newer styles.

3 of 4 are good for rough water and 3 of the 4 are hard to find, but a 28 AT was for sale on FB last week with a 500 efi for $32,000 if I remember right.

yeah. I missed out on that one. I sat on it simply because it was only a 67mph boat. Which one of the 4 is not a good candidate?

They're all good boats and all a bit scarce. Probaby easier to find a Fountain. With similar power, the Fountain is likely the fastest but non Fountain owners might say its smaller and won't handle the rough.

Coming out of a24 footer, you'd be happy with any of them, I'd have a look at a few (if you can find them) and get a feel for the layout and size, cockpit vs. cabin and see what suits your needs best.

Happy shopping, err......searching!

RR

Its not on your list but the 28 sonic and perhaps a 28 checkmate.

Everything on your is rare and difficult to especially since you are wanting sport deck style with outboards. With that been said they don't come cheap. Other brands out there to consider also. My 27 activator was a dream to own easy maintenance if any, easy on pockets at the pumps and great fuel efficiency. $100 87 octane two good days of boating. Here is one might interest you if available still
https://www.screamandfly.com/showthr...2800sx-w-300-s

2010 30' Checkmate w/2015 motors w/warr on Long Is Craigslist. Don't know anything about it, but might be worth a look. Good luck!!!

80+ in any of them will require big power, probably 700 hp

Pantera does not have much freeboard. AT has the most freeboard