There's been a thread on here on the differences between a 36 and 32 skater. I'm more interested in the differences between the 36 and a 40. First time cat owner, would be taking the Tres Martin course again. Looking on information around usability (going out with a friend or two), rough water capabilities (generally no more than 4's). Not too worried on trailering as it would only being going down south for the winter. The 36 seems to be a nice boat for the money and a good all around boat for long island. I am just not sure if its big enough to head out in the ocean most days if I wanted to head to NYC, Greenport, or AC.

the 36 can handle any water a 40 can. 40ss, different story

just get a 46 and never worry about the water =)

As a first time cat owner... nothing safer!!

46 isn't in the cards right now, unfortunately. Is a 40SS a different animal? There's a couple on the market in the low 200's. I was told that was a lot of boat for a first time cat owner.

40 SS has 5 steps and is wider