Thank you all for the great feedback. A bit of explanation regarding
why we don't trailer the boat very much. We have a small cabin that
is boat-access only (we went to the cabin almost every weekend this
summer with my old boat). Our house is 1/2 hour from the marina and
the marina is a 20 minute ride from the cabin. So quite often we
simply go for short period (an afternoon or even weekdays leaving
after work for an evening dinner at the cabin). There are obviously
some challenges to mooring this type of smaller boat but it is SO MUCH
more convenient for us given our particular situation.

I am getting my new boat tomorrow (friday) and it won't be moored
before April 1, 2006 (therefore kept in my garage and flushed after
each use). I will probably use it 4 -5 times in October, 2 -3 times
in November and I am not sure if it will be used at all in Dec-Jan and
Feb.

Given this schedule of use, is it absolutely critical to do the
freshwater cooling and bottom painting now? My wallet could certainly
use the break for 1/2 year!

I am still undecided regarding the extended warranty. The coverage
seems pretty good. The warranty is called the Bayliner Extended
Protection plan: "Protect your investment and enjoy years of
worry-free boating with the most comprehensive mechanical breakdown
coverage available in the marine industry".


It includes engine, transmission, drive shaft housing, intermediate
housing, stern drive lower unit, V-drive, Colling system, steering,
fuel system, electrical, power trim and controls. $25 deductible and
cover "all the labor charges associated with a covered mechanical
breakdown".

Andre, Vancouver, BC