Boat Recommendations

[No Keepers]

I'm looking to purchase a boat. Right now I'm looking at a 2006 Wellcraft 180 Fishermen, 2007 Triumph 195CC or a 2004 Seaswirl 1851CC. Boat to be used in the Raritan Bay and maybe out front on a nice day. Any advice on the pro's, con's or limitations is appreciate. Thank you in advanced.

[Capt. Debbie]

Nothing specific. Some general considerations.

Women on board? A concealed toilet(head).

Dock back bay? Engine's should be on the larger selection side for long run Keyport to Romer's or Shrewsbury Rocks on good days. Sea Tow Insurance.

Trailering or docking?

That size is about right for your use. I always liked higher bow freeboard and flared bow to knock down spray.

Colder rainier fishing? Hard top with side curtains?

[Gerry Zagorski]

All of those boat brands mentioned are in the same general tier of boats.

As Frank mentioned which one would be a better boat depends on how you intend to use them vs how they are laid out and what engines they have on them as well.

Cuddy with an enclosure would be nice for inclement weather and a potti for women and children but a center console in that size is going to give you a lot more fishing room but less protection from the weather.

As far as engines that is a big consideration as well. I would assume these are outboard boats and depending on the year and brand of outboards, there are some that you want to stay away from and other that are more desireable.

[No Keepers]

Thank you for your replies Gentlemen.

My wife is not into boating, just me and my son. The Welcraft has a 150 Yamaha, while the other two have a 115 Yamaha. I know the 115 is a little under powered. Should that make my decision? I currently have a 17 foot center console, so I'm use to getting wet. Just want something a little larger that can go out front. Right now I hardly pass the candle sticks, except for a really nice day.

[MrAC1980]

If you currently have a 17ft then I don't think it'll be worth just stepping up to an 18ft. In short order you're going to want even bigger and in a few years you're going to find yourself back in this same position. I'd rec taking a look at some similar models in the 19-21ft range with 150-200hp outboards. There are some great deals around if you keep your eyes open. If you tell us what your honest budget is we may be able to make some suggestions for you.

[Gerry Zagorski]

Originally Posted by MrAC1980

If you currently have a 17ft then I don't think it'll be worth just stepping up to an 18ft. In short order you're going to want even bigger and in a few years you're going to find yourself back in this same position. I'd rec taking a look at some similar models in the 19-21ft range with 150-200hp outboards. There are some great deals around if you keep your eyes open. If you tell us what your honest budget is we may be able to make some suggestions for you.

I'm with AC ^^^^

And yes, I would go with as much power as possible. Nothing worse than an unpowered boat, especially when it gets rough. I've always been told you should have at least 75% of the max horsepower the hull is rate for.