Hello All,

This will probably be a painfully obvious question for many of you,
but I wanted to get some advice and I'm a novice powerboater (plenty
of sailing experience though!!)

Anyway, I'm in the market for a small runabout boat - perhaps 17 to 19
foot. It's to be used in both fresh and salt water here in the NW USA.
I plan to pull skiers as well as just cruise and maybe fish.

My question is - what are the advantages of an I/O vs outboard, and
vice versa. I've been leaning toward an I/O, mostly from the
standpoint of noise, simplicity, and looks (no unsightly motor in the
way....). What are some other considerations I should be aware of or
take into account.

Thanks VERY much for any help you can provide.

Jim