I read quite a bit about boats, and get the BoatTest newsletter, which
comes out every week or so. Most of what's in there is not what I
want. Mostly big gas-guzzlers.
They had an article in the most recent about Whalers 13-footer.
Boston Whaler 130 Super Sport
Comes with a 40 Merc for $9995. Boat's too small for me.
There's a vid review of the American Angler 1866 Bass & Bay CC.
And the Tracker Pro Team 170 TX.
Both aluminum.
And a vid review for the JC Pontoon Neptoon 21 TT, and the
Ranger Boats 208VX.
Lots of smaller boats today. Many times they're reviewing power
yachts that run big bucks and use big fuel.
Anyway, it's been a couple years since I wanted any boat but what I
first decided on. Three I'd like are the Carolina Skiff 24 DLX, Mac
26X or M, and the Corsair F-24 or F-27 tri.
All are good on fuel, and the Mac and Corsair can sail besides.
They're within my budget, but until I move to the water and try them I
won't know which one I want. Maybe I'll change my mind then and go
with something else.
Thing is, it seems that once you like a certain type boat, you tend to
stick with it.
Some here might have the money to own many different boats, but those
are more rare birds.
They say a boat is always a compromise, and that's true.
Seems there's always something that steers an individual toward a
particular boat.
Wouldn't mind hearing what steered you to yours.
For me, I give the most weight to meager fuel consumption, then
shallow draft and fishability and overnighting.
Close in there is trailerabilty, though I might be able to work around
that with a dock or lift. Depends. Have to be able to ride 4-6
people safely minimum, and sleep at least 4.
Don't care about speed much at all.
Because I just don't want an expensive boat, I don't worry about cost
hindering me.
That's about it.

--Vic