First family boat ideas
 

I'm thinking about getting a boat to use with the family. I live near
Folsom lake in California and am likely the only person in town
without a boat. I think I'd like to start small by buying something
under $5K that I could sell next year or so if the family decides that
they are becoming bored with it. Also, since I already own one
airplane and am thinking about buying a second airplane, I don't think
my wife would appreciate a really expensive boat.
I saw an ad for a 1990 Bayliner Capri 18' boat that would seem to fit
the bill. They're asking $3K. I'm looking for something the 4 of us
could lounge on and maybe ski off of (possibly if we learn). Also, my
existing SUV only has a 3500 lb towing capacity so I think that
somewhat limits my choices.
Do you have suggestions for first time owners? I'm sure there is
always the possibility that I could end up wigth someone else's junk.
What questions do you ask sellers? What things do you look for to
ensure that the boat has the best chance of not being junk? Since I'm
not talking about spending a whole lot of money its not a super risk
but if I bought something that turned out to be junk the wife would
just assume that boats suck and lose any interest.

-Robert

First family boat ideas
 

"Robert M. Gary" wrote in message
ups.com...
I'm thinking about getting a boat to use with the family. I live near
Folsom lake in California and am likely the only person in town
without a boat. I think I'd like to start small by buying something
under $5K that I could sell next year or so if the family decides that
they are becoming bored with it. Also, since I already own one
airplane and am thinking about buying a second airplane, I don't think
my wife would appreciate a really expensive boat.
I saw an ad for a 1990 Bayliner Capri 18' boat that would seem to fit
the bill. They're asking $3K. I'm looking for something the 4 of us
could lounge on and maybe ski off of (possibly if we learn). Also, my
existing SUV only has a 3500 lb towing capacity so I think that
somewhat limits my choices.
Do you have suggestions for first time owners? I'm sure there is
always the possibility that I could end up wigth someone else's junk.
What questions do you ask sellers? What things do you look for to
ensure that the boat has the best chance of not being junk? Since I'm
not talking about spending a whole lot of money its not a super risk
but if I bought something that turned out to be junk the wife would
just assume that boats suck and lose any interest.

-Robert


How many people in the family? What ages? And, what activities do you
envision using the boat for? Just cruising around can get old really fast.
Fishing? Water skiing? Tubing? The activities will determine how much
paraphernalia you need in the boat, and that will guide you in terms of
size.

If you don't lay around the yard getting a tan now because of the risks, you
certainly won't be doing it in a boat, either.

First family boat ideas
 

On Aug 28, 2:47 pm, "JoeSpareBedroom" wrote:
"Robert M. Gary" wrote in oglegroups.com...





I'm thinking about getting a boat to use with the family. I live near
Folsom lake in California and am likely the only person in town
without a boat. I think I'd like to start small by buying something
under $5K that I could sell next year or so if the family decides that
they are becoming bored with it. Also, since I already own one
airplane and am thinking about buying a second airplane, I don't think
my wife would appreciate a really expensive boat.
I saw an ad for a 1990 Bayliner Capri 18' boat that would seem to fit
the bill. They're asking $3K. I'm looking for something the 4 of us
could lounge on and maybe ski off of (possibly if we learn). Also, my
existing SUV only has a 3500 lb towing capacity so I think that
somewhat limits my choices.
Do you have suggestions for first time owners? I'm sure there is
always the possibility that I could end up wigth someone else's junk.
What questions do you ask sellers? What things do you look for to
ensure that the boat has the best chance of not being junk? Since I'm
not talking about spending a whole lot of money its not a super risk
but if I bought something that turned out to be junk the wife would
just assume that boats suck and lose any interest.

-Robert

How many people in the family? What ages? And, what activities do you
envision using the boat for? Just cruising around can get old really fast.
Fishing? Water skiing? Tubing? The activities will determine how much
paraphernalia you need in the boat, and that will guide you in terms of
size.

I have no idea what we will do with it, I don't know enough to know
that. That's why I"m starting with a very small purchase amount (under
$5K). I have my wife and two pre-teen boys. The tubing sounds
interesting.

-Robert

First family boat ideas
 

"Robert M. Gary" wrote in message
ps.com...
On Aug 28, 2:47 pm, "JoeSpareBedroom" wrote:
"Robert M. Gary" wrote in
oglegroups.com...





I'm thinking about getting a boat to use with the family. I live near
Folsom lake in California and am likely the only person in town
without a boat. I think I'd like to start small by buying something
under $5K that I could sell next year or so if the family decides that
they are becoming bored with it. Also, since I already own one
airplane and am thinking about buying a second airplane, I don't think
my wife would appreciate a really expensive boat.
I saw an ad for a 1990 Bayliner Capri 18' boat that would seem to fit
the bill. They're asking $3K. I'm looking for something the 4 of us
could lounge on and maybe ski off of (possibly if we learn). Also, my
existing SUV only has a 3500 lb towing capacity so I think that
somewhat limits my choices.
Do you have suggestions for first time owners? I'm sure there is
always the possibility that I could end up wigth someone else's junk.
What questions do you ask sellers? What things do you look for to
ensure that the boat has the best chance of not being junk? Since I'm
not talking about spending a whole lot of money its not a super risk
but if I bought something that turned out to be junk the wife would
just assume that boats suck and lose any interest.

-Robert

How many people in the family? What ages? And, what activities do you
envision using the boat for? Just cruising around can get old really
fast.
Fishing? Water skiing? Tubing? The activities will determine how much
paraphernalia you need in the boat, and that will guide you in terms of
size.

I have no idea what we will do with it, I don't know enough to know
that. That's why I"m starting with a very small purchase amount (under
$5K). I have my wife and two pre-teen boys. The tubing sounds
interesting.

-Robert


Well, think about it this way: Imagine X number of people in the boat, and
whether there'll be enough room for everyone to stretch out or move around
without tripping over each other. Then, subtract some floor space for a
cooler, a tote bag with towels/jackets, etc. Not only is enough space a
comfort issue, but also a safety issue. Look at storage space, and whether
there'll be enough room for life vests, fishing poles, etc. And obviously,
consider the boat's recommended weight limit vs. your family. If you're all
220 lb refrigerators.....

Know what I mean?

First family boat ideas
 

"Robert M. Gary" wrote in news:1188329696.234831.104620
@e9g2000prf.googlegroups.com:

I'm thinking about getting a boat to use with the family. I live near
Folsom lake in California and am likely the only person in town
without a boat.

Theres part of your answer there, do friends have boats?, have you been out
on them ? have your kids gone tubing with friends?. Some experience with
others on their boats will help you decide immensly.

Even better just hang out with others on their boats for a season :-)
Its cheaper !
Ron

snip
Do you have suggestions for first time owners? I'm sure there is
always the possibility that I could end up wigth someone else's junk.
What questions do you ask sellers? What things do you look for to
ensure that the boat has the best chance of not being junk? Since I'm
not talking about spending a whole lot of money its not a super risk
but if I bought something that turned out to be junk the wife would
just assume that boats suck and lose any interest.

-Robert

First family boat ideas
 

On Aug 28, 11:58 pm, "Robert M. Gary" wrote:
On Aug 28, 2:47 pm, "JoeSpareBedroom" wrote:





"Robert M. Gary" wrote in oglegroups.com...

I'm thinking about getting a boat to use with the family. I live near
Folsom lake in California and am likely the only person in town
without a boat. I think I'd like to start small by buying something
under $5K that I could sell next year or so if the family decides that
they are becoming bored with it. Also, since I already own one
airplane and am thinking about buying a second airplane, I don't think
my wife would appreciate a really expensive boat.
I saw an ad for a 1990 Bayliner Capri 18' boat that would seem to fit
the bill. They're asking $3K. I'm looking for something the 4 of us
could lounge on and maybe ski off of (possibly if we learn). Also, my
existing SUV only has a 3500 lb towing capacity so I think that
somewhat limits my choices.
Do you have suggestions for first time owners? I'm sure there is
always the possibility that I could end up wigth someone else's junk.
What questions do you ask sellers? What things do you look for to
ensure that the boat has the best chance of not being junk? Since I'm
not talking about spending a whole lot of money its not a super risk
but if I bought something that turned out to be junk the wife would
just assume that boats suck and lose any interest.

-Robert

How many people in the family? What ages? And, what activities do you
envision using the boat for? Just cruising around can get old really fast.
Fishing? Water skiing? Tubing? The activities will determine how much
paraphernalia you need in the boat, and that will guide you in terms of
size.

I have no idea what we will do with it, I don't know enough to know
that. That's why I"m starting with a very small purchase amount (under
$5K). I have my wife and two pre-teen boys. The tubing sounds
interesting.

-Robert- Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -

OK then, let's try this. Tell us about your boating options and at
least we can probably point you in the right direction. Where will you
be boating as in Lakes, river, sound, ocean and if so, how big of a
waterway, what are the typical conditions and water temps (very
important you answer this), and what is the weather usually like in
your part of the country in what you consider boating season? (even
more important you answer this). Understand that winds of even 5-15
mph can change your boating conditions and needs dramatically so try
to provide as much info about the above question as you can.

How much time will you actually be on the water in a typical trip out?
Will you be towing or renting dockspace/already own some? I mean if
your boating is an hour away but you would actually be on the water
for more than three to four hours at a time, or want the ability to
overnight, you may want something than can support a potty, and a
couple of small bunks. If you are going to be heading to the lakehouse
for tubing and fishing, a small open bow may be better, the boys can
pee over the side. If you will only be on the water a few hours at a
time when the the wife or other friends are on board (longer for
fishing with the guys) you could still probably get away with a nice
open bow.

As to the wife getting a bad first boat experience, I might suggest
you actually start with the smallest boat that will suit your needs as
opposed to going for the big guns right off the bat. Chances you may
get a nicer condition boat for the price being smaller. It is much
easier to handle and learn on, and you can always trade up. If you
have a nice manageable boat, that provides the ammeneties your wife
needs, you have a much better chance of keeping her interested.

Finally, get on line today and sign up you, and preferably your family
too to some boating safety courses. Look to see what the boating
licence requirements if any are in your area, and carry them out.

If you answer these questions I would imagine some here would be able
to help you pick the right tool for the job, and point you to a great
boating experience with your family. Oh, and if you don't already do
so, learn to smile and wave, boaters tend to do that a lot;)

First family boat ideas
 

"Ron" wrote in message
...
"Robert M. Gary" wrote in news:1188329696.234831.104620
@e9g2000prf.googlegroups.com:

I'm thinking about getting a boat to use with the family. I live near
Folsom lake in California and am likely the only person in town
without a boat.

Theres part of your answer there, do friends have boats?, have you been
out
on them ? have your kids gone tubing with friends?. Some experience with
others on their boats will help you decide immensly.

Even better just hang out with others on their boats for a season :-)
Its cheaper !
Ron

snip
Do you have suggestions for first time owners? I'm sure there is
always the possibility that I could end up wigth someone else's junk.
What questions do you ask sellers? What things do you look for to
ensure that the boat has the best chance of not being junk? Since I'm
not talking about spending a whole lot of money its not a super risk
but if I bought something that turned out to be junk the wife would
just assume that boats suck and lose any interest.

-Robert


Some places rent boats. Cheaper to rent and try it out before committing to
ownership.

First family boat ideas
 

On Aug 29, 8:40 am, Ron wrote:
"Robert M. Gary" wrote in news:1188329696.234831.104620

Theres part of your answer there, do friends have boats?, have you been out
on them ? have your kids gone tubing with friends?. Some experience with
others on their boats will help you decide immensly.

Even better just hang out with others on their boats for a season :-)
Its cheaper !

Most of my friends are fellow airplane owners and look at my really
funny when I saw I'm looking at buying a little boat. They can't
understand why I would want something like a boat. My boys and I love
the water. I'm also a BSA lifeguard so I volunter to help assist with
water events for local troops.

First family boat ideas
 

"Robert M. Gary" wrote in message
ps.com...
On Aug 29, 8:40 am, Ron wrote:
"Robert M. Gary" wrote in
news:1188329696.234831.104620

Theres part of your answer there, do friends have boats?, have you been
out
on them ? have your kids gone tubing with friends?. Some experience with
others on their boats will help you decide immensly.

Even better just hang out with others on their boats for a season :-)
Its cheaper !

Most of my friends are fellow airplane owners and look at my really
funny when I saw I'm looking at buying a little boat. They can't
understand why I would want something like a boat. My boys and I love
the water. I'm also a BSA lifeguard so I volunter to help assist with
water events for local troops.



Boats are better than airplanes. Everyone knows that. Not all will admit to
knowing, though.

First family boat ideas
 

On Aug 29, 9:34 am, wrote:
On Aug 28, 11:58 pm, "Robert M. Gary" wrote:





On Aug 28, 2:47 pm, "JoeSpareBedroom" wrote:

"Robert M. Gary" wrote in oglegroups.com...

I'm thinking about getting a boat to use with the family. I live near
Folsom lake in California and am likely the only person in town
without a boat. I think I'd like to start small by buying something
under $5K that I could sell next year or so if the family decides that
they are becoming bored with it. Also, since I already own one
airplane and am thinking about buying a second airplane, I don't think
my wife would appreciate a really expensive boat.
I saw an ad for a 1990 Bayliner Capri 18' boat that would seem to fit
the bill. They're asking $3K. I'm looking for something the 4 of us
could lounge on and maybe ski off of (possibly if we learn). Also, my
existing SUV only has a 3500 lb towing capacity so I think that
somewhat limits my choices.
Do you have suggestions for first time owners? I'm sure there is
always the possibility that I could end up wigth someone else's junk.
What questions do you ask sellers? What things do you look for to
ensure that the boat has the best chance of not being junk? Since I'm
not talking about spending a whole lot of money its not a super risk
but if I bought something that turned out to be junk the wife would
just assume that boats suck and lose any interest.

-Robert

How many people in the family? What ages? And, what activities do you
envision using the boat for? Just cruising around can get old really fast.
Fishing? Water skiing? Tubing? The activities will determine how much
paraphernalia you need in the boat, and that will guide you in terms of
size.

I have no idea what we will do with it, I don't know enough to know
that. That's why I"m starting with a very small purchase amount (under
$5K). I have my wife and two pre-teen boys. The tubing sounds
interesting.

-Robert- Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -

OK then, let's try this. Tell us about your boating options and at
least we can probably point you in the right direction. Where will you
be boating as in Lakes, river, sound, ocean and if so, how big of a
waterway, what are the typical conditions and water temps (very
important you answer this), and what is the weather usually like in
your part of the country in what you consider boating season? (even
more important you answer this). Understand that winds of even 5-15
mph can change your boating conditions and needs dramatically so try
to provide as much info about the above question as you can.

I live in Folsom, CA and am about 5 minute from a launching point into
the lake. The lake contains 10,000 surface acres of water.

How much time will you actually be on the water in a typical trip out?
Will you be towing or renting dockspace/already own some? I mean if
your boating is an hour away but you would actually be on the water
for more than three to four hours at a time, or want the ability to
overnight, you may want something than can support a potty, and a
couple of small bunks. If you are going to be heading to the lakehouse
for tubing and fishing, a small open bow may be better, the boys can
pee over the side. If you will only be on the water a few hours at a
time when the the wife or other friends are on board (longer for
fishing with the guys) you could still probably get away with a nice
open bow.

Open bow (I think that means with the cool seats you can sit out on)
is what what I was thinking.

-Robert

First family boat ideas
 

How many people would typically be on the boat?

First family boat ideas
 

On Aug 29, 3:31 pm, "JoeSpareBedroom" wrote:
How many people would typically be on the boat?

2 adults and 2 kids. The boys love to swim and also to explore. I
figure it would be cool to have a boat they could tube from. I have a
raft now that I take the boys out on and they love controlling the
raft (I never have to row). We'll go out on the lake and they'll jump
out and swim. I'm sure my oldest (12) would blow a brain fuse out of
excitement if he got to touch the steering wheel of the boat while it
was moving.

-Robert

First family boat ideas
 

"Robert M. Gary" wrote in message
ups.com...
On Aug 29, 3:31 pm, "JoeSpareBedroom" wrote:
How many people would typically be on the boat?

2 adults and 2 kids. The boys love to swim and also to explore. I
figure it would be cool to have a boat they could tube from. I have a
raft now that I take the boys out on and they love controlling the
raft (I never have to row). We'll go out on the lake and they'll jump
out and swim. I'm sure my oldest (12) would blow a brain fuse out of
excitement if he got to touch the steering wheel of the boat while it
was moving.

-Robert


OK. As I said earlier, take into account not just the feet on the deck
needing space, but the equipment and paraphernalia, too. A tote bag of
towels & jackets, where the life vests will go, ice chest, etc. A boat can
get annoyingly crowded very quickly. Stuff on the deck can also become a
safety hazard.

First family boat ideas
 

On Aug 30, 4:17 pm, "Robert M. Gary" wrote:
On Aug 29, 3:31 pm, "JoeSpareBedroom" wrote:

How many people would typically be on the boat?

2 adults and 2 kids. The boys love to swim and also to explore. I
figure it would be cool to have a boat they could tube from. I have a
raft now that I take the boys out on and they love controlling the
raft (I never have to row). We'll go out on the lake and they'll jump
out and swim. I'm sure my oldest (12) would blow a brain fuse out of
excitement if he got to touch the steering wheel of the boat while it
was moving.

-Robert

You have to do a lot more research of course, but based on what you
have given us so far, and assuming you will be a trailer boater, I
would be looking at 20 foot open bow or center console boats. It could
be a little tight on days all four people and some coolers, boxes and
other assorted toys are on board, but it will give you a good start
into boating, you can always trade up. Don't know if you want an
inboard or outboard, maybe someone with more of your type of boating
prefernce can chime in here.??

First family boat ideas
 

On Aug 30, 1:17 pm, "Robert M. Gary" wrote:
On Aug 29, 3:31 pm, "JoeSpareBedroom" wrote:

How many people would typically be on the boat?

2 adults and 2 kids. The boys love to swim and also to explore. I
figure it would be cool to have a boat they could tube from. I have a
raft now that I take the boys out on and they love controlling the
raft (I never have to row). We'll go out on the lake and they'll jump
out and swim. I'm sure my oldest (12) would blow a brain fuse out of
excitement if he got to touch the steering wheel of the boat while it
was moving.

-Robert

Folsom often has large changes in water level and plenty of underwater
obstructions including an old overpass. Definitely get a deptfinder/
GPS combo for the boat. I believe hotmaps has the contours of the
reservoir mapped on a chip available for at least Lowrance and Eagle
units. Also a must have.

Keep an eye on the water level here...

http://cdec.water.ca.gov/cgi-progs/s...station_id=FOL
(most of the states large reservoirs are also on that site)

-phish