There are steps that allow you to climb over the windshield out to the deck. Accessing the anchor locker is not the only time you will be out on the deck. You have to climb out there alot whether it is rafting up with other boats or mooring to a dock.

You can climb from the passenger seat to the dash over the windshield. Not the easiest way forward. I usually use the deck hatch. Once I'm up there I get someone to hand the anchor up, or you can just anchor off the transom.
The 2007/2008 boats have an anchor locker in the bow, and an improved cleat arrangement.
Steve

And don't short yourself with the 496.... Do yourself a favor and throw some ponies in it. You won't like looking at the dollars when your doing it but you'll love it when your running down the lake..

See, I learned something about the newer models. And someone was giving me crap for asking this question! I am talking with my wife about spending a little extra $$$ on a newer boat. It seem that unless I order one, most of the models available are the 496's. I have a little while before I leave, so no rush on my part.

Thanks for all of the input guys...

Unlimited Marine has this one which is a 2004 model with low hours and a 500EFI for a good deal. It was at the Regatta a few weeks ago and is in excellent shape. I agree with the comments on going for the upgraded motor. Thats why I think this is a good buy. Call John if interested.
Good Luck in your search

That is a nice boat... Funny how the push is always for more power. My wife laughs when I'm around my friends that are also pilots. She says we all have the same personality, trying to go faster, do better, etc...

Thanks for the information. I'll shoot them an email. My issue is that I'm going to be deployed for a little more and don't want my wife to buy a boat without me.

My X brother in law was a pilot. He flew the F15's. You definately need more power. Getting it now leaves the wife plenty of time to wax & get the boat stocked so you can hit the throttles when you get back. Be safe!

Some of the big name insurance companies, as apposed to specialized boat insurance companies, will only insure boats with standard engines. In their minds any boat with a Mercruiser Racing Engine is not insurable. They tend to consider the 496HO as far as they want to go. Others also have in the policy that any engine performance mods will void the policy.

Well that kind of sucks huh? What do you think the difference is per year between the 496 and 525?

Here is is on the TN river. Awesome looking boat.