Boat Buying Help Needed

[msiler]

Seeking advice on a 1st boat purchase.
I have been looking at what some would term "Mid Level" boats. In particular a NEW Sea Hunt 202 and NEW Sea Pro 206 both similarly equipped and running a Yamaha 150TX. Prices are pretty close to each other out the door as I would like them equipped - around $27K. I also have recently come across my favorite of the three boats mentioned, a Scout 202sf. The Scout is a USED 1998 model also running a Yamaha 150. Sounds like it is in very good condition (I will see it on Monday 5/5). The boat has several hundred hours use on it. Asking price is about $7K less than the boats above...

My question is this: What are your thoughts on buying used vs. new in this case. I think the Scout is a better boat but has no engine warranty, 5 seasons of fishing on her, used trailer etc. Should I buy new and just spend a bit more and get all the support and service I need for the first few years trouble free (relatively speaking) and under warranty?

What's the downside to buying used?
Upside to buying new?
What would you do?

Thank you for the help,
Matt

[flyslinger]

I guess what it boils down to is how long do you want to wait to spend the other 7k. if you buy new, you've hopefully bought at least a couple years of trouble free boating, on the other hand. save the 7k, you may need it next week, next year or a couple of years from now. i bought new, i drive a piece of sh*t car, but if it breaks down i can always get out & walk. i also know quite a bit more (mechanically) about cars than boats.





dan

[JimC]

If that's the Scout I think it is its also loaded with electronics. A full set of new Flush mounted electronics installed by a dealer is likely to be $1,200 to $2,000 with labor. Work that into the price of the Seahunt if you haven't already.

From what I understand, the ride of that particular Scout amazed a very salty (read experienced) buddy of mine. His comment was that it was the best riding small CC he'd ever been on. It was either high praise or he was slamming my boat :)

[mctrout]

I was quoted 30k on a brand new Parker 21se with trim tabs, leaning post, 150 HPDI and flush cleats. I personally just bought a Steger 21 Superfly (little more than 30K-OK allot more!!!) anyway you can probably do better than all of those boats. Jones Brothers are nice as well. Have seen steiger 21s for 19K no motor if you do a search. Wouldn't personally buy a Carbed motor. Old technology and badly ineffiecient. I have both so I know. good luck and if you have 27K to throw, don't settle for anything less than you want in the 20 foot range, the motor is THE most important thing!!
good luck
Brendan

[tommat]

Hi Matt,

You know how I feel about Scout's, so we don't need to go down that rat hole again. I bought my first boat used, 18' Parker, and have yet to have a single problem with it. It is a 1992, which I purchased three years ago. I had a great original owner who took excellent care of the boat, so I had no reservations about the purchase. By the time you add your extra's to the new boat, you are in the 30k range. IMHO, a lot of money for part-time use.

Good Luck.

Tom

[dollarshort]

Buying new gives you a piece of mind and hopefully the start of a good relationship with a reputable dealer who will walk you through some of the Do's and Dont's that go along with boating.

Used can definately save you money but IMHO you usually buy someone elses headache. Rare is the find that someone kept meticulous care of their vessel and are honestly looking to upgrade. Usually they are just tired of the BS that keeps going wrong and want out.

If you are mechanically inclined, handy and have the patience of a Saint buy used. If not New is your answer.

Personally have bought both new and used. I have never been happier than with the purchase of my New Maritime 20D.

Ever ask the dealers about leftovers? Demo's maybe? They are still covered by all warranties yet they will save you a few thousand that you could spend elsewhere.