For your uses a Bayliner 2052 w/4.3 Mercruiser I/O would work well, mine cost
right at 28k with galvanised dual axle trailer and freshwater cooling, towing
weight about 5500 lbs, cabin sleeps two easy and comes with canvas helm
enclosure, swim platform and ladder (thought the ladder really needs another
rung for boarding with equipment). Had mine since '99 in a salt water marina
(San Diego) no complaints, a good value in spite of what some (Harry, are ye
out there?) might say. Yeah, it's not a Hatteras or Grand Banks, but it'll get
the job done .

By the way, your attitude IS. Just a bit. On this NG at least.
Best wishes from an old Florida guy (Treasure Island 1944-1966)
Mike

in response to I would like to collect power boat recommendations that
satisfy these
conditions:

- max about 20 feet (absolute max 25 feet)
- used for scuba diving (underwater photography) and island
hopping, no other major uses (no fishing)
- built to support the use along Florida coast, esp west coast
and the Florida Keys in the south, the sides should be high
enough to protect against small waves
- preferably built-in motor (not the attached-type) to provide
more space in the back, this is not goging to be a race
boat, max 20-30 miles/hour is enough
- a small platform in the back for easy diving and access to
equipment
- has to be easy to trailer because it will be carried on a trailer
to many different locations frequently
- occupancy max 2 people, but it has to be easy to operate even for a
single person
- it should to be designed to sleep 2 people on the deck by easy
removal of the seats to make flat sleeping surface and by
installing some overhead bug screen