Hey there I am researching boats and want some area specific feedback for those that run the Chesapeake bay. Does anyone have seat time on a Donzi 35zr if so how does it handle the chop? I am looking for a smooth running boat that handles rough conditions (plan for the worst hope for the best). This will be a first high performance boat and I would like a 35' or greater and used. Any other boats you guys have in mind would help. Not looking for crazy speed but just to hit up some different spots on the weekend and not take forever to get there.

What kind of coin are you looking spend?
Are you going to overnight on this boat, do poker runs, and longer trips; or is just just something to whip out for a few hours or, the day, and be back on the lift or trailer each night?

The 35ZR is not 35' of hull in the water. It's roughly 33' of hull, with 2' of molded in swim platform.
Not that such is bad, but just make sure you always "use the same ruler" when comparing different boats.

The 35ZR is a great boat, and would be fine on the upper Chesapeake, but down south where it can get pretty nasty; I'd look to have 36-38' of true hull length boat under me. It really does make a difference.

If you have any questions on Active Thunder, let me know. Good luck with your search.

I will mostly do day trips and or poker runs. If I do an overnight I will stay in a hotel or I have friends with a sport fish. I would end up down in the southern part of the bay I know for sure.

Sounds like you've been around boats and know the ropes for the most parts. I think 35' is a perfect "get your feet wet" boat. I'm sure most you'll look at are 525 so be sure to get some header history. Even if the boat is low hour or "runs great" do compression, they are famous for water ingestion and begin hanging valves. Honestly, for a first time go fast I'm not against 496HOs. I've seen the ones around us literally beaten like they owe someone money with little more than oil changes for years.

Yeah I grew up in that area of the upper bay out on the water a lot. Most of my friends right now have high performance boats so the wife was like this is fun we should get one. The big win for me is she wants a bigger one that rides nice and she does not fear for her life at 70 mph+. I did not want to rule out the 35 just because I heard it was bigger. The boats I have been mostly looking at is nor-tech 39v, active thunder 37, donzi 38zr, and fountain 42. My friend told me to come on here and try to do some research on how the ride and maybe link up next year with some people on the bay to take a ride on these. Then decide on what I like.

gunslinger.... you honestly can't go wrong with any of your choices. I just sold my 38' Fountain for a 39' Nortech. The boats you're considering all fall in about the same "size and mass" category., and all would be fine choices for the bay. I'm a big fan of how full stagger boats run vs. side-by-side, but other than that you can't go wrong with any of your choices. I'd look for good, reliable power and enjoy yourself in any of them. Since the cabin is not a huge necessity for you, all of them should work nicely. I think the Donzi and Fountain will be your most cost effective/bang for your buck types... the Nor-tech and Active Thunder build and fit and finish are in a class a bit above the Donzi/Fountain (my opinion anyway). Don't discount the 500EFI vs. 525EFI if you're looking at a bit older boats, the motors are damn near bullet proof and don't share the header issues the 525's seem to be plagued with, however you don't get the benefit of closed cooling which may be important to you on the bay. I'm sure Brian could get you out on an Active Thunder as well as in touch with any owners looking to sell if you're going down that avenue. You're welcome to come check out my boat if you're considering one as well.

Thanks for the feedback. One last question how is that nor-tech vs the fountain? I'm sure there is a topic somewhere on that but I'm sure you switched for a reason

One of the most significant aspects that affords the "feel" of safety on a boat is freeboard. The 37' AT has over 4 feet of freeboard at the front bolsters, and sitting down in the backseat it's almost difficult to see out the sides of the boat; and you definitely can't see out the front. While some don't like this, it really does add to the effect of being IN the boat, not ON it.
Coupled with a ride that just can't be compared to anything else out there, it's a winning package which attracted me to the boat & company. There literally is not another hull out there like it, with the DDC patented bottom. The step is designed to cut the water open, and the pad bottom rides out the split. I've posted many times on this, so I'll shut up there.

There are a few 37ATs that either can be bought, or are already listed. I'm happy to add some insight if you are interested. I can also guide you through building one if you like. It's not as expensive as one might think compared to other brands.

Again, good luck with your search.

Thanks for the info on the AT I will defiantly keep them in mind. The wife really likes the paint and interior. Those are her big wants besides riding good. I don't know if building a brand new one would be in the budget but it sure would be sweet no doubt. I could easily hold out for a really nice used one if I end up choosing AT

We run a 353 Fastech and I can tell you that length in the bay matters. We love our Fastech...could be a good choice for you...lots of nice amenities. Agree that no matter what you choose you buy something 35'+...then you will never be concerned of where and when...Good luck !!!