On Sun, 01 Feb 2004 09:38:15 +0000, Gene Kearns wrote:

On Sun, 1 Feb 2004 01:11:59 -0800, "Chris Deruyte" Chris
wrote:

I have come across a 1991 Bayliner 1700 Capri in what appears to be (and the
owner [original] claims is) a total of 40 to 60 hours use since new. It is in
very good condition, and has been garaged for at least five years. He says he
ran the engine every few months (with water), and at first glance it looks
pretty darn good. The only options are an aftermarket fish finder and the
bimini top. (He'll throw in a couple of water skis and a knee board.) I could
buy it for a little under three thousand dollars.

A bit high, I think. Nada puts the value of motor/boat/trailer at $2090 for low
retail and $2580 for average retail.

Maybe a better question than price is, "Will this boat meet your needs?" If so,
I'd get the boat and motor checked out and if all proves sound start
negotiations at an amount toward the lower part of the range... see who blinks
first.

Bear in mind that things don't necessarily improve with age... even with low
usage.

If it's your first boat, I wouldn't worry too much about if it will "fit your
needs" - chances are it won't. But you'll get a much better idea of what your
needs ARE if you get out on the water.

I personally don't believe in forcing the seller to give you "the best deal"
- offer him what you think it's worth. In this case, I think it's largely a
question of "how much money can I throw away if this boat ends up garbage, or it
turns out I just don't like boating?"

As for your other questions: First, I'll second everyone else's suggestion to
take a Safe Boating Course (not sure where you'd find info of it in the States -
here, you can contact the Coast Guard or Power Squadron).

Launching is mostly Practice (in a deserted parking lot is good...), and
there are some websites that offer guides (try google?) Your truck might pull it
OK - it's near the upper limit for that vehicle. Fine if you're just running
from your house to the local ramp.

A smaller boat will be easier to tow and launch, but the larger boat allows
more options once on the water (carries more people, has the bimini for water
protection, more comfortable, can ski behind...). Again, depends on how much you
can afford.

Lloyd Sumpter
"The Tin Boat" Mirrocraft 12