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What Brand would you buy?
Sea Pro
25%
[ 7 ]
Sea King
14%
[ 4 ]
Angler
7%
[ 2 ]
sea swirl
3%
[ 1 ]
other and if so what
48%
[ 13 ]
Total Votes : 27
Posts: 329
Mon Oct 15, 2007 5:42 pm
If you were in the market for a 19-21 foot CC around 30K, or a similiarly priced 19-21 foot walk around ( what I would really like), what would you buy and why?
been looking at the following:
Sea Pro 19 or 206 CC ( hurts my hand when I knuckle the boat :D )
Sea King ( used to be Ken craft) 21 CC
Sea swirl and Trophy walk arounds
Angler 21 CC and walk around ( nice warranty, do they back it up though)
I am looking for a few opinions on hull strength, warranty, longevity etc.
I am looking to buy a new boat ( will be my toy for quite a while so it needs to be right) my main concern is buying something that will last me for years with proper care as I would rather grow old with one than continually buy someone elses old junk I think. :?
thoughts?
been looking at the following:
Sea Pro 19 or 206 CC ( hurts my hand when I knuckle the boat :D )
Sea King ( used to be Ken craft) 21 CC
Sea swirl and Trophy walk arounds
Angler 21 CC and walk around ( nice warranty, do they back it up though)
I am looking for a few opinions on hull strength, warranty, longevity etc.
I am looking to buy a new boat ( will be my toy for quite a while so it needs to be right) my main concern is buying something that will last me for years with proper care as I would rather grow old with one than continually buy someone elses old junk I think. :?
thoughts?
Posts: 1020
Location: Wilmington
Location: Wilmington
Mon Oct 15, 2007 6:11 pm
Hi, With that budget it would be hard to buy the top brands. Those are what last for years. Mako, Regulator, Seacraft, and many others just to name a few. Several years ago I bought a 21' Sea Cat with twin Honda 90's a few years old for $25k. That was a nice boat and I used it for a few years, put on radar, gps and stuff and sold it for $20K. You might check yachtworld.com for used namebrand cc's. They have a good search engine. Good luck!
Posts: 329
Mon Oct 15, 2007 6:21 pm
when I say years, I don't mean 30 
. I would just hate to take a beating a used boat. I don't wanna run down the used versus new rabbit hole. but the idea of a six year engine warranty and a 10 year hull that seems to be industry standard appeals to me being on a budget. I do not intend to sell this boat in 2-3 years, but rather raise my family around it and hopefully nurture a love for fishing in my boys. I will not be beating it up daily as in the case of a charter captain, but rather putting it in the water 4-5 times a month (less perhaps for a couple years according to how work is looking 
)
. I would just hate to take a beating a used boat. I don't wanna run down the used versus new rabbit hole. but the idea of a six year engine warranty and a 10 year hull that seems to be industry standard appeals to me being on a budget. I do not intend to sell this boat in 2-3 years, but rather raise my family around it and hopefully nurture a love for fishing in my boys. I will not be beating it up daily as in the case of a charter captain, but rather putting it in the water 4-5 times a month (less perhaps for a couple years according to how work is looking )
Posts: 1386
Mon Oct 15, 2007 7:09 pm
Jim
BIG E - (PULVERIZER) on site here has the Sea King and he can tell you about it first hand.
He takes it way off-shore and loads it with Grouper and Kings, and its a very nice looking boat.
_________________
Ricky Holden
(Holden Charters - Reely Miss-Behavin - 26ft Cape Horn)
Just because it seems excessive - Dosen't mean it didn't happen ~ "SLASH"
www.holdencharters.com
BIG E - (PULVERIZER) on site here has the Sea King and he can tell you about it first hand.
He takes it way off-shore and loads it with Grouper and Kings, and its a very nice looking boat.
_________________
Ricky Holden
(Holden Charters - Reely Miss-Behavin - 26ft Cape Horn)
Just because it seems excessive - Dosen't mean it didn't happen ~ "SLASH"
www.holdencharters.com
Posts: 329
Mon Oct 15, 2007 7:11 pm
R.E I was Eyeballing the Sea king I liked the challengers and being built by the same guy kinda carries a little confidence with me. They seem a little lean on the freeboard though?
Posts: 329
Mon Oct 15, 2007 7:57 pm
| johnny99 wrote: |
| Pioneer 197 - hands down. cant beat it |
care to elaborate? I looked at the pioneer ( via the internet) but dismissed it as "to small etc"
Posts: 306
Location: Swansboro
Location: Swansboro
Mon Oct 15, 2007 8:24 pm
Ive been on all of those boats in the size you are looking at, and that why I chose other. I would try to get you to look at a Hydra-Sports 212 cc. Im sure you could be in your price range on that one.
_________________
261 MAKO
REEL_HOOKER
_________________
261 MAKO
REEL_HOOKER
Posts: 3700
Mon Oct 15, 2007 9:32 pm
of those, Sea Pro is the ony choice. I would go with something like a Hydra-sports if I could though.
I noticed you said you were wanting a walk around. I will tell you, a walk around in that size will have absolutely NO room in it. The cabin will not be big enough to be worth anything and you will lose a whole lot of fishing room. Go with a CC.
I noticed you said you were wanting a walk around. I will tell you, a walk around in that size will have absolutely NO room in it. The cabin will not be big enough to be worth anything and you will lose a whole lot of fishing room. Go with a CC.
Mon Oct 15, 2007 9:43 pm
Can't speak for the other boats, but I have a HydraSports 212cc and have really enjoyed it. Good economy, solid built. Been out 34 +. The only draw back and its probably the same on any 21 footer is storage
Posts: 165
Location: High Point / Whispering Pines
Location: High Point / Whispering Pines
Mon Oct 15, 2007 9:55 pm
I bought a new 22' Sea Pro CC two yrs ago, had a 225 Yamaha 4-stroke. Was very happy with it. Handled the water well, just had to be smart about when I went out like any other boat that size. Fished 4 comfortably. This year 2 foot-itis set in & I had to move up. Wanted something a little more family friendly so bought a Robalo 245 WA. Love the Robalo but you do lose a lot of fishing space vs a CC. Plus side is we'll stay a whole lot warmer on those rides out this fall & winter :D
This time of year you should be able to get a sweet deal on a new boat. Most dealers are wanting to get rid of their '07 models, some may even have new '06 models still in their inventory. Shop around, you'll get a good buy.
Good luck,
Tim
This time of year you should be able to get a sweet deal on a new boat. Most dealers are wanting to get rid of their '07 models, some may even have new '06 models still in their inventory. Shop around, you'll get a good buy.
Good luck,
Tim
Posts: 182
Location: Hampstead, NC
Location: Hampstead, NC
Tue Oct 16, 2007 4:12 am
like you i'm new to all of this, but look here i have a 215cc and we look it so far. http://www.triumphboats.com/.
Posts: 180
Location: Angier/Southport
Location: Angier/Southport
Tue Oct 16, 2007 7:56 am
Like wavescrash said, a walk around in that size has no room. Of the boats on your list either Sea King or Sea Pro. I have a Sea Pro 220CC with a 200 Verado, its been a good boat and can take a lot more than I can. Might want to check out Sea Hunt also.
Ray
Ray
Posts: 740
Location: Oak Island
Location: Oak Island
Tue Oct 16, 2007 10:19 am
I believe you're realizing the age old question, quality vs. cost.
I have a Key West 225 that cost about 38,000. It is a middel of the road boat (quality wise) that I have been very happy with. It appears to be of sound construction (2.5 years ld and no problems yet) and is very fishable. I would compare it to Sea Pro, Sea Hunt, etc in those aspects and these boats are VERY similar quality and layout. It's no Regulator, Contender, Yellowfin, etc, but those boats are in a different class. I have no problem taking mine out 30 miles if I'm with another boat (1 motor worries me that far out). They make a smaller boat (21 ft I believe) that you may check out.
Depending on the type of fishing you want and the type of seas you want to handle, you may want to look at McKee Craft's 19' CC. IMO, today McKee Craft makes about the best quality boats around. Debate it if you must, but it is true. The 19' is designed like a bay boat so it may not be best for waaay offshore in rough seas (but it won't sink no matter what). IIRC, it costs about 30 grand. They make a 22CC that is more of a typical deep-V offshore boat, but I believe it costs in the upper 40s.
Basically, forget what everyone says about mine is best yada yada yada. Do pay attention to problems people have had, especially recurring problems. It basically boils down to what you are most comfortable with.
Just my 2 cents.
I have a Key West 225 that cost about 38,000. It is a middel of the road boat (quality wise) that I have been very happy with. It appears to be of sound construction (2.5 years ld and no problems yet) and is very fishable. I would compare it to Sea Pro, Sea Hunt, etc in those aspects and these boats are VERY similar quality and layout. It's no Regulator, Contender, Yellowfin, etc, but those boats are in a different class. I have no problem taking mine out 30 miles if I'm with another boat (1 motor worries me that far out). They make a smaller boat (21 ft I believe) that you may check out.
Depending on the type of fishing you want and the type of seas you want to handle, you may want to look at McKee Craft's 19' CC. IMO, today McKee Craft makes about the best quality boats around. Debate it if you must, but it is true. The 19' is designed like a bay boat so it may not be best for waaay offshore in rough seas (but it won't sink no matter what). IIRC, it costs about 30 grand. They make a 22CC that is more of a typical deep-V offshore boat, but I believe it costs in the upper 40s.
Basically, forget what everyone says about mine is best yada yada yada. Do pay attention to problems people have had, especially recurring problems. It basically boils down to what you are most comfortable with.
Just my 2 cents.
Posts: 228
Location: Snow Hill NC
Location: Snow Hill NC
Tue Oct 16, 2007 10:41 am
Took FIVE years for me to decide what to buy. I looked at boats that size but with a family of 5 (one being a 5yr. girl) those boats got small real quick. Wife talked me into the 262 Scout Abaco with cabin and the works. Now with that being said - I am now looking at the new 29' Scout or possibly the 35'. Start with what you are comfortable with but remember these guys are right about storage. You say you plan to keep this boat. That is exactly what I said when I purchased mine. Once you get bitten by the fishing bug you'll want a bigger one.
_________________
Sharky
Sharky's Revenge
262 Abaco Scout
_________________
Sharky
Sharky's Revenge
262 Abaco Scout
Posts: 346
Location: Wilmington NC
Location: Wilmington NC
Tue Oct 16, 2007 11:25 am
You will get the dreaded "2 foot itis'" sooner or later. Sure this boat is great but if it were just a liitle bit bigger ...LOL.
Personally I would vote for the SeaKing (AKA Kencraft) but I have never ridden on a Sea Pro either. There are a few minor changes I would make, like bilge hoses but i think you will find that on any boat in the price range you gave. Our 206 Challenger has impressed me so far. Good luck in your search.
_________________
Those who desire to give up freedom in order to gain security, will not have, nor do they deserve, either one.
- Benjamin Franklin
Personally I would vote for the SeaKing (AKA Kencraft) but I have never ridden on a Sea Pro either. There are a few minor changes I would make, like bilge hoses but i think you will find that on any boat in the price range you gave. Our 206 Challenger has impressed me so far. Good luck in your search.
_________________
Those who desire to give up freedom in order to gain security, will not have, nor do they deserve, either one.
- Benjamin Franklin
Posts: 700
Location: Wilmington, NC
Location: Wilmington, NC
Tue Oct 16, 2007 3:17 pm
A couple of years ago when I bought my boat I was not working on a budget but need a certain size for my dry rack, after sea test about everything I decided on the Sailfish 218. This boat came with every option I was looking for and the ride was far superior to all the others I tested. After over two years I would without question buy the same boat again.
One of my best friends had a Sea Pro 22 cc and I knew I would not buy that, it was the worst riding, wettest boat I have ever been on. I have another friend with a 21 Regulator that is a stud, but not for $30k. Don't want t blast a particular boat, just my opinion.
_________________
Captain Mick
2008
218 DLV
One of my best friends had a Sea Pro 22 cc and I knew I would not buy that, it was the worst riding, wettest boat I have ever been on. I have another friend with a 21 Regulator that is a stud, but not for $30k. Don't want t blast a particular boat, just my opinion.
_________________
Captain Mick
2008
218 DLV
Posts: 51
Location: Carolina Beach
Location: Carolina Beach
Tue Oct 16, 2007 3:32 pm
I currently own a 21ft Sea Pro bay boat and its the best inshore boat that I have ever owned for the money. I fish inshore wrecks and also in the river.
Posts: 329
Tue Oct 16, 2007 3:59 pm
I understand everyones thoughts that Regulators, contenders, grady's etc are better boats. However, I am active duty military with 3 kids and raising them in a single income household. We simply cannot afford a boat over 30K, we also want the comfort of knowing that we have a warranty for a couple of years. there would be no worse feeling than investing all of our money and then have the motor go tits up leaving us looking for another 15K to drop outta the sky. I wish I made the kind of money that some people on here obviously do 8O but I don't unfortunately :oops: .
P.S. After reading back over my post I realized that it kinda sounds like I am ungrateful or perhaps abrasive in response to everyones input. I assure you all this is not true, I am simply trying to avoid this poor horse from being kicked anymore
P.S. After reading back over my post I realized that it kinda sounds like I am ungrateful or perhaps abrasive in response to everyones input. I assure you all this is not true, I am simply trying to avoid this poor horse from being kicked anymore
Posts: 3700
Tue Oct 16, 2007 4:31 pm
haha don't put grady in there with regulator and contender, etc. I thought we did a pretty good job of answering your question? everybody has their own likes and dislikes. Just find the boat in that price range who's layout you like the best. And like I said, get a CC. You can get these foldout dome things, i can't remember what they are called, that will turn the bow into a cabin and let you get out of the sun if that is absolutely necessary.
Posts: 51
Location: Carolina Beach
Location: Carolina Beach
Tue Oct 16, 2007 4:31 pm
Jims,
The total cost for my boat (21ft Sea Pro) 150 hp Yamaha and trailer was less than 26,000 and it was new, including electronics.
The total cost for my boat (21ft Sea Pro) 150 hp Yamaha and trailer was less than 26,000 and it was new, including electronics.
Posts: 222
Tue Oct 16, 2007 4:35 pm
I'd like to wade in on the boat discussion. No matter what boat you buy they will all be compramises concerning price, fuel economy, quality, ride, storage etc. I like my 21 cc hydrasports. It has a 4 stroke yamaha which has incredicble fuel economy. I burn about 6-7 gallons/hr at 4000 rpm which is about 28 mph. That's fast enough in the ocen for this hull. It has trim tabs, so when it's rough I run about 3500 rpm, 22mph, and can bring the bow down so pounding is reduced. Is it the ideal boat? No, but it was the best compramise I could find for $34,000. That's boat, motor, tabs, trailer, T-top, leaning post w/ rocket launcher and an ICOM radio installed. The issues I have is the bait tank had to be re-worked so bait wasn't killed, no useable fish box which means you've got to mount a cooler forward of the console. Also the anchor storage sucks. But it's the best compramise I could find for less than $300 per month payments.
The sailfish 21 is another good boat but probably will cost around $40K new.
The sailfish 21 is another good boat but probably will cost around $40K new.
Posts: 16
Tue Oct 16, 2007 6:53 pm
Keep your eyes open - Contenders and other high end boats in the size range you are looking at are common tournament prizes. The winning teams pretty much sell them, and typically at bargain basement set to move prices. I'd say if you can be patient it could pay off for you, esp. in these days of a buyers market for all boats.
I know you seem opposed to this, but frankly a new motor on a "timeless" hull is often the best of both worlds. Hull warranties only apply to garbage hulls, anyway - quality boats don't blister, and any issues show up in a few years of use so an older hull will have proven itself.
I know you seem opposed to this, but frankly a new motor on a "timeless" hull is often the best of both worlds. Hull warranties only apply to garbage hulls, anyway - quality boats don't blister, and any issues show up in a few years of use so an older hull will have proven itself.
Posts: 329
Tue Oct 16, 2007 7:07 pm
So.....What your saying is I need to save my money and just win a tournament right
Posts: 177
Tue Oct 16, 2007 7:42 pm
IMHO,
I think you get a better deal buying a slightly used boat.
And winter time is the best time to buy, less demand, big supply (of used boats).
I think you get a better deal buying a slightly used boat.
And winter time is the best time to buy, less demand, big supply (of used boats).
Posts: 383
Tue Oct 16, 2007 8:00 pm
My 21' Sea King is a good riding boat. It thinks it's a big boat! Trim tabs are a must! It's a solid ride. Everyone that has rode in it like the way it rides. If you check on them see how much more the 23' is, it has a closed transom with a motor bracket. Everything is easy to get to. I bought mine with no T-top. I had it custom made and curtains with wings made.I wish I had a Yellowfin but this boat gets the job done for my price range! I run up to 45+ miles in her. Whatever you buy ride in one first!
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Think like a FISH
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Think like a FISH
Posts: 157
Tue Oct 16, 2007 8:47 pm
I had a 2000 Sea Pro 210CC for almost 3 years and had the confidence to make lots of trips out to the Tower. Loved the boat - dry riding hull, great layout, lots of fishing room for its size. would still be in it, but had itching desire to be in the Stream with twin motors.
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-Slim
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-Slim
Posts: 16
Tue Oct 16, 2007 9:05 pm
| jimshady wrote: |
| So.....What your saying is I need to save my money and just win a tournament right |
Well, don't know if I'd count on having THAT much patience...
I'd think you could get maybe get a tournament-prize Contender 21 for around 30K, esp. if it had a 150 or so motor on it. Just depends on how motivated the sellers are - esp. if it is getting close to year end and they don't want the tax bill. That's really not a bad motor size for a boat that size - it won't run the ditch as fast, but in a smaller boat you won't have many days when you can run anywhere near WOT in the ocean, so the extra money for a 200 is probably not your best bet on a budget.
Don't underestimate how much you can end up plowing into tackle, electronics, bait bags, etc. That again is why a good deal on one of the classic Kevlar hydra-Sports hulls, for example, or an old Mako (pre '92), will give you a piece of glass more solid than ANY made today - then put new power on it ("new" program motors are another end of year deal), new electronics, canvas, etc. and you probably have a better boat than any your are talking about and have probably not hit your budget.
There are guys around who specialize in this sort of thing - tell them what you want and they'll wrangle it together for you. The good ones will stand behind their work as well as or even better than most new boat dealers.
A boat is not like a car - the glass hull, if it is quality, is probably good for 50+ years if it has not been abused. Everything else is not really part of the boat - they are just add ons by someone, whether the factory, the dealer, or you. Run it into a sand bar, bump into a dock a few times, miss the mark a couple times on your trailer at the boat ramp and you'll find the "new boat smell" does not last as long as it does a car - though the payments will go on for much longer.
Anyway, since you weren't interested, I just couldn't keep my mouth shut...
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