Looking to put together a very reliable boat, singel engine, to cross the gulfsteam. Have a house in Fl. and live in the Bahamas- don't like to fly.... I'm thinking a pantera 28' with either a 496 or a 502 merc single with an after market heavy duty outdrive. Any thoughts out there???? Also what kind of GPH at curise ?

No opinions on the OSO!!

496 and 496 HO are very reliable. I would think about twins if I was frequently making the trip you are talking about. A standard Bravo should be fine with the 496's.

My 496 HO burns about 11 GPH at cruise. A 28 Pantera is a bit larger and heavier than my boat. So, maybe a little higher fuel consumption.

How big is your load

No contraband here....just a few beers and a 100lb woman. I make the trip now in a 24' superboat/225 evinrude. Don't what the hassle of twins, but with inboards being much cheaper than outboard, would keep a fairly new motor in the boat - and a seatow card!

Seatow will only tow you in for up to 50 miles. That's what they told me when I joined this year.

That must be a hell of a ride! Let's see some pics of your boat. I have a 24 Super I/O.

Dave M.

Will try and post a picture tonight. The 24' outboard is a great boat- we use it as our car over here- but it's not a perfect ocean ride. I think your 24' inboard proably rides better in the rough stuff due to the added weight and where it is. I can't afford a huge boat, so I hope the 28' pantera will be a better ocean boat, plus it's got a larger cabin.

Austin

Here's a shot of our current boat. Taken as the girlfriend came home- I'm on crutches and have to stay home.

Austin

Looks nice! I like the graphics!

Here's a pic of mine....