First boat decisions, decisions

Obi-juan de fuca

New Member
Hey guys, I’ve read a few of these threads on here and didn’t want to jump on someone else’s advice thread.

I’m looking at buying my first boat. I live in Victoria and will likely moor it at oak bay marina as I don’t have a tow vehicle currently. Primarily used for fishing and day trips but would like to overnight as well. Family of 4 with young boys. Tall order for a boat under 30’ I bet.
I’ve been checking out Striper 2101’s, trophies, campion explorers etc. I’m wondering if a small cabin cruiser would be better for overnighting. A striper 2601 or bayliner discovery?
My budget is a lot closer to 30k than it is to 60k

Any advice is appreciated. Abuse welcome as well 😂Thanks guys!

Jeff
 
I think if you're looking at sleeping 4, a cabin boat is most likely to meet your needs for more than just a year or two. And unless you're going to be at a marina [ie. if you're going to anchor out] you're going to want a galley and head of some sort.

My 23 Hourston will sleep 2 in the v-berth + my daughter from about 4-6 years old. Now the 3rd person sleeps on the galley table berth, and there's room for a 4th on the engine cover, with the cockpit covered by a slope canvas. Diesel stove/heater, sink, head keep the family happy.

There are lots of boats with similar layouts, but my impression is that older boats are more likely to have those amenities. A lot of newer ones seem to be more aimed at day trip fishing and less at overnighting. I'll wait for others to jump in and correct me 🙃
 
Do you have a good friend who has owned a moored inboard outboard for 5+ years? It’s worth talking with them about the total cost of ownership. My brother owns few years newer Bayliner ciera without the fly bridge and the nice thing about it is the multiple berths sleeping areas. He keeps it moored in north Saanich much better for getting to the gulf islands Sidney spit Portland island quickly. Way more room on the Cierra than the other two you posted. The cooling system maintenance history is really important for all three. Age of the canvas is important, looks good in the pictures but replacement cost is $$$$. I think my brother has a bigger engine, worth discussing fully loaded performance numbers with the owner.
 
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