"Wayne.B" wrote in message
...
OK, Let's get some serious boat discussion going (per Chuck's end of
year challenge).

The time has come to replace our ancient 24 ft I/O cuddy.

Here are the specs:

Maximum 26 ft LOA (not counting the swim platform).

Max beam of 8 1/2 feet.

Must have an enclosed head and some minimal galley and sleeping space.

Must have a better than average ride through a chop, preferably best
of class for a 26 ft cabin boat.

Must have reasonable speed, capable of cruising at 24 to 26 kts in
good conditions.

Must have a reputation for decent quality and resale value.

Anchor windlass preferred.

Our leading candidate so far is a Sea Ray 260 Sundancer. Being a bit
of a traditionalist, I'm not particularly in love with Sea Ray's
styling, but it's less offensive than some, and the boat seems to fit
in most other respects.

Suggestions?

The 260 SeaRay Sundancer, while meeting many of your needs, will not provide
a nice ride nor will it be stable in even calm waters. Add to that the fact
that it is a single I/O.

Consider bumping up to the 270 Sundancer with twin V 6's, preferably 1986
through 1988 models. Engine access is tight but you get the bonus of an aft
cabin and a more stable ride due partially to a wider beam (Sorry, but a bit
wider than your 8'6" requirement).

Regardless, both boats (1984-88 eras) offer solid glass construction and are
stoutly built. Although SeaRay was purchased by Brunswick in the mid
1980's, their influence on design and construction was not apparent until
1989.

Both the 260 and 270 come with Alpha 1 outdrives. Not especially great,
especially in a salt water environment.