Looking for some advise on boat purchase

Hi Drew,

Welcome aboard. Your decision is much like many others. Choosing between an older boat with more accomodations, or a newer boat with less accomodations... for about the same expenditure. Both an older boat and newer boat could give you problems, depending on how it was used and/or maintained. All of the manufactuers you mentioned build quality boats, but in most cases, each is better known for a specific type or model.

If you could be more specific about what type of boat you're looking for, i.e. sportfish, express cruiser or motoryacht... we might be able to make some suggestions. I have personal experience with Hatteras motoryachts from the 70's, Broward motoryachts from the 80's, and Sea Ray Sedan Bridges from the 90's.

Every boat will have some limitations and each will have features that are more personally appealing. Again, try to narrow down your parameters to something more specific and chances are, there will be someone onboard that has some experience.

I can't speak from personal experience with any of these boats. They are all very similar in style and amenities. Often, the right boat comes down to the right price and the right condition.

You really need to spend some time physically inspecting some of the used boats you've selected, to determine which one fits your needs best and also, to get an idea of how each one has held up over the years. I would suggest this to anyone looking to buy a new boat as well... take a look at an older, used version of the same boat to see how well it has weathered the years. Along this same thought process, you will sometimes find 15 year old fresh water boats that look better than 5 year old saltwater boats.

Of the boats you selected...

The 43' Hatteras of the late 80's era will be most like a motoryacht, both in size and stature. This was a popular boat in it's time, but the interior of Hatteras in this era will seem somewhat dated in comparison to the newer boats you selected. At this age, they are fairly well depreciated and you are buying the luxury and features of a much more expensive boat. Yes, the equipment is older and may require more maintenance. Everything's a trade-off.

The 44' Viking of the late 80's reminds much of a sportfish that has been converted to an aft cabin. I'm not very familiar with this style, but I've met several people that own Viking sportfish's and they swear by them. They are known for good, solid hulls. Frankly, I find the boat a little boxy, looking more like an after-thought than an original design. Opinions will vary.

The late model Sea Rays have benefitted from refinements and improvements in production tooling and tolerances. There is a reason these boats enjoy a large market share in the 28-42 foot range. Style, quality, price and appeal. Both the express line and the sedan line have been hugely popular in their markets. One aspect you may want to consider is the Sea Ray market... there are many Sea Rays for sale and many buyers looking for them. This can result in a better deal when an ample supply exists. It can also be a happier ending when a larger segment of the market is looking for Sea Ray over other brands.

Hopefully a few of our members can chime-in and make some suggestions. But it's 11:30 my time, which means I've just finished another 18 hour day. Best of luck!

Well, you did say "any" help

I have no clue how they would fit into the menu here on price-and-year. But it might be worthwhile to put Albin on your radar's target list -

http://www.albinmarine.com/40cutter/40cutter.html

Kelly Cook

I owned and lived aboard a Gulfstar 44 built in '79 for about 3 yrs. Great ship not one major prob. in the 3 years.