A few years back a friend was shopping for a 42 sonic. When he asked Jay why it cost twice as much as a 31 with the same power, the answer was " because thats how it is". big profit in big boats. small profit in small boats. Assuming you can move the product, which would you build?

That said, I bought 3 new boats, then the 38 used. Saved $200K by letting someone else own the 38 for the first 5 years. Not sure another new one will ever be in the cards for me either.

Reading these comments, and going through the link(s, you know how that whole surfing thing goes)..I can't agree more..I would NEVER be able to afford a boat that costs half as much as my house, let alone the same or more!! I have a 88 35se that I picked up for $18k with a real nice aluminum trailer, twin 454's with blowers..one has one season on a complete rebuild, bored 30 over forged everything, the other motor was in pieces...I'll have about $3000-$3500 making that motor match. total done and in the water will probably be about $23k..I'll have 1200 fresh horsepower, and a hull with about 400 hours on it, beautiful interior...what will another $200-$400K get me that I don't already have?

Absolutely right on.

I feel the same way. If I decide in the future I want something different in my boat, I'll just have it updated. New paint, bigger engines, etc...those are all far cheaper than buying a new boat and I may be even happier.

My feelings exactly.....Almost the same story. Got my 1987 35se for 14K not counting shipping, spent about 3500-4000 repairing one engine, and have a LOT of cash left over to put in the gas tank and upgrades. (compared to a new boat). On the other hand I could have a brand new boat that looks great sitting at the dock.........because I'd have nothing left to put in the tank:lolhit: