Assuming you are looking at a full cabin boat and will be storing it at a
marina, bigger is always better. It is very difficult to find a buyer for a
boat in this size. Starting at a 26 and then going to a 28 in a year or so
and then to a 30 in another year is not practical as it may take a year or
so just to sell the one you have. If you know you want something to cruise
at slower speeds and spend the weekend on w/ friends and stuff, then the
bigger you can afford the more you will enjoy the boat. Just remember, dock
fees are based on size and insurance and gas use goes up also. I would
definitely be looking for twin diesels in this size boat. Once you decide
on the most money you can afford for the boat, start looking. Just
remember, you are definitely in a buyers market in these boats. If you show
up with money to buy, you can negotiate a real deal as the owner is
constantly looking at maintenance and dock fee cost every day he keeps it.

Good luck and happy hunting.

--
Tony
my boats at http://t.thomas.home.mchsi.com



"John H" wrote in message
...
On 13 Mar 2004 14:26:06 -0800, (Trevor) wrote:

I haven't boated much (just boating on friends boats)and want to get
an idea of a managagable size boat to purchase. Is 31 ft too long, or
should I purchase a 27 or 28 footer to begin?

Looking back, what would you have done differently when you you first
took the plunge buying your first boat?

Take a boating course and start small!

John H

On the 'Poco Loco' out of Deale, MD
on the beautiful Chesapeake Bay!