On Topic:  Looking for boat recommendations

The time has come to replace our ancient 24 ft I/O cuddy.

Here are the specs:

Maximum 26 ft LOA (not counting the swim platform).

Max beam of 8 1/2 feet.

Must have an enclosed head and some minimal galley and sleeping space.

Must have a better than average ride through a chop, preferably best of class for a 26 ft cabin boat.

Must have reasonable speed, capable of cruising at 24 to 26 kts in good conditions.

Must have a reputation for decent quality and resale value.

Anchor windlass preferred.

Our leading candidate so far is a Sea Ray 260 Sundancer. Being a bit of a traditionalist, I'm not particularly in love with Sea Ray's styling, but it's less offensive than some, and the boat seems to fit in most other respects.

Suggestions?

Saw one of these at a boat dealer - wife thought it looked "classic", but complained about the boxey topsides. Told her it was a classic Grady design, but she wasn't convinced. Did like the interior though.

http://www.tritonboats.com/frames2.asp?cat=2&bid=95

Wife liked this one, but didn't care for the interior layout. Thought the head was restrictive, but usable - liked the galley space.

http://www.albemarleboats.com/trailerable/268XF.html

This was the choice of them all, hands down.

I liked it very much myself.

The builder has the ideal combination of quality and value.

"Wayne.B" <waynebatrecdotboats@hotmail.com> wrote in message

Consider bumping up to the 270 Sundancer with twin V 6's, preferably 1986 through 1988 models. Engine access is tight but you get the bonus of an aft cabin and a more stable ride due partially to a wider beam (Sorry, but a bit wider than your 8'6" requirement).

Regardless, both boats (1984-88 eras) offer solid glass construction and are stoutly built. Although SeaRay was purchased by Brunswick in the mid 1980's, their influence on design and construction was not apparent until 1989.

Both the 260 and 270 come with Alpha 1 outdrives. Not especially great, especially in a salt water environment.

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