Bermuda.
Hull is sound, went all around, top to bottom, bow to stern, in and out stringers and transom are solid, only issue so far is the floor in the cabin and first step outside of the cabin.

I would put reliable big block power in it and go boating for several reasons:


1. Most 90’s boats aren’t worthy of exotic power plants. I put modest power in my 1990 Cafe
2. Sounds like this is your foray into offshore boating. There will be enough headaches along the way that you should eliminate unreliable power as one of the,
3. Any boat that has been sitting unpowered is going to have surprises - use you time and resources chasing those not big power.

Just the advice from a guy with 800hp motors that would have just as much fun boating with reliable 600hp 540’s.

Oh - and per the post title I will tell you I am NO EXPERT

Thank you for the solid and honest opinion. I had established already with the previous advice from the others that this was the best course of action to make.

IMO, yes.
Find a 500ish hp engine and 1.50 regular Bravo, Bravo X or XZ drive. XR may be stronger but the longevity of the upper gears is much less.

Thanks. Any leads?

On my third Baja. Never had problems. I think they are built good, esp for the $$. My 25 Outlaw was a 2003, had merc 496, 425 hp, bravo drive. With the right prop, close to 70. Ran it in the Atlantic Ocean of the coast of AC, NJ. Handled great. The 496, closed cooled is a great motor, not sure if it’s fast enough for you. But it is extremely reliable

Thanks, just want a little more, 502 with maybe a little bit of bolt on spice.