Center Console Recommendations

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fountain27

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19956
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The admiral and I just moved to Key Largo after purchasing a business. After we get settled I want to start looking for another boat. My current boat, 33' Trojan, is for sale back in VA (I am going to take a bath on the resale).

I am trying to narrow my search down. I am looking for a center console in the 24'- 27' range. I know of the top models: Intrepid, Contender etc. Any other quality boats I should look at? We want to fish, dive and cruise.

Also any opinions on twin engines vs single? I know two motors means double the maintenance cost, but adds to reliability. Two stroke vs 4? Any brand recommendations Mercury, Honda, Yamaha?

We are looking for a simple boat we can take out after we close the store for a quick ride or wet a line. No generator (the bane of my existences), AC, etc.

I appreciate any suggestions.

I will post our story in NBR.
 
I wanted a small CC I could "park" behind my Carver. Bought a 12 year old 15' Edgewater last year with a 90hp 2 stroke Yamaha and love it. IF I had the bucks, I would prefer 4 stoke for less noise, smoother, and burning less fuel. The less fuel in particular is of course going to be more and more important. We spend a fair amount of time puttering around the back waters barely above idle, so quieter and smoother would be nice as well. I think you will get a lot of opinions of which motor is "best". In salt water, I'd want to have a lift if possible. There is a ton of online info on the various motors. You might want to check out the Whaler forum as well. Good luck and enjoy the search!
 
Take a look at Bluewaters, SeeVees, Pangas, Twin Vees, Regulators, Rambos.

I like 4 strokes. Also everybody I've talked with who has E-Tecs likes them a lot. Not a fan of Mercs.

It's a busy area down there boat traffic wise. So I think going with a single wouldn't be much of a safety issue. Even going off the reef line.

Is the business you bought boating related?
 
I have a 90 HP 4 stroke on my Scout, which is great boat, and I love it. Quiet, powerful and good on gas.
 
I just bought a Blazer Bay 19'6" with a Yahmaha HPDI two-stroke 150 hp. I like it a lot, but probably a little on the light side for offshore work. And I would want a twin engine boat if I'm heading to the stream. I like the Key West center consoles I have seen.
 
quote:
Originally posted by HOGAN

I have a 90 HP 4 stroke on my Scout, which is great boat, and I love it. Quiet, powerful and good on gas.

Click to expand...


Yes, Scouts are great boats as well.
 
Fountain, before you decide, also take a look at Whitewater boats, and go with a 4 stroke on whatever you choose,if noise and fuel burn are an issue.
 
Having spend a week in that area last Christmas there are a LOT dealers in that area and CC were the main boat for sale by far.

Good luck
Niles
 
The modern direct injection 2-strokes are frequently quieter and more fuel efficient than 4-strokes. Check out the Opti-Max and E-Tec motors. Quiet, reliable and very stingy on gas.
 
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