On Wed, 18 Feb 2004 21:45:35 -0500, "blahb" wrote:

That's the thing, the Whaler is about $1800 more than the Seahunt but I am
told that the Whaler has a much better resale value down the road so the
$1800 isn't relevant over the life of the boat.

The question is how much of the $1800 difference will you recover over
time. Probably less than $200/300 dollars depending on how the boat
is used, hours, condition, age, etc. If you feel it is worth losing
the relative difference, then buy the Whaler.

Would I buy a Whaler? Compared to my Contender, the comparable Whaler
was set up the way I like, the engine packages were comparable, but I
couldn't get what I wanted from the dealer I was working with and
frankly, I was leery of the dealership just based on conversations
while working out a deal.

Different dealership and the Contender 31 could have been an Outrage
270 or 320.

The Seahunt LOOKS more comfortable but then again lots of people are saying
the ride on the Whaler and the stability of it is second to none. I seem to
be even more confused now.

Have you taken either one out for a ride or have ridden in one? You
may want to consider that before you make any decision. Plus, you can
play the dealers off against each other unless it is the same dealer.

You might also want to broaden your search a little. There are other
boats being produced that fit what I think you are wanting to do and
will be more than acceptable, save you some money and have a decent
return over time. Look around a little. You still have a couple of
months before prime time boating season - do some more homework.
Can't hurt and might help.

Good luck.

Later,

Tom
S. Woodstock, CT
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"Fisherman are born honest, but they get
over it." - Ed Zern