New 17-18ft boat unsure thoughts??

[j_man_84]

Hey guys been a while since ive been on here been to busy with work and new child but since on holidays pulled the 4.2 out and been doing a bit of fishing but starting to think I wouldn't mind something bit roomier, softer riding and comfortable for the growing family. Going from a 4.2 tiller im thinking of stepping upto into something around the 17-18 ft mark in fibreglass (smooth riding) , centre or side console not to picky. But has to have good storage, seating for 4 ppl and as much deck space as i can get and also cost effective. Have looked at a few different options boston whaler dauntless 180 geez nice boat but comes with the tag there was a few others but cant remember off top of my head. But my questions to you is who has boats around this size and specs and peoples thoughts on options available. Im after some good feedback from fellow ausfishers goods and bads of models and what comes highly recommended. Any help would be great as these days there are so many different brands and new competitors on the market. First hand experience from owners is far better then the dealer telling you why there boat is the best for you. The boat will be used for bay work (offshore on right day), and bit of estuary (crabbing).

thanks guys.

Jono

[Chimo]

If your going to involve the family you might be far better of getting into a cuddy cabin style boat so they have some shade and shelter and can get out of the wind too.

A newish child will also be able to get a sleep under cover in the shade while you do your thing.

You didn't mention your budget which would certainly make it easier to assist.

Cheers
Chimo

[j_man_84]

Hey chimo thanks for the quick reply mate. Yeah I know the cuddy cabin is a lot more family friendly and your definitely right but I love fishing and using the whole boat I guess and its hard to give that up. Specially when I want to drop and retrieve some pots also. Budget hopefully be around the 35k tops!!

cheers

Jono

[Fish Face]

Have a look at the Bonito 560. Just love mine. Centre, side console or tiller. Quality plus... Great guys to deal with. Made on the Gold Coast...FF..

[FisHard]

Another vote for the Bonito. My mate is having his built right now, and from our research, you won't get a better rig. Could get a package for around your budget too.

[mitc69]

yup half cabin are way to go or WA

[Chimo]

Cuddy walkaround would be better but its your choice anyhoo
2006 Triumph 191 FS http://www.boatsales.com.au/boats-for-sale/private/used/SSE-AD-2431694/2006-Triumph-191-FS

http://www.########.com/boats/boat_video.aspx?ID=1023

[ozynorts]

Yalta do a bowrider in their 1800 series.
http://www.yaltacraft.com/1800-bowrider.html
Here is the cabin version. Call these guys and see what the price is like.
http://www.boatpoint.com.au/boats-fo...=0&pss=Premium

[sharkcat one]

I heard that Jackaroo boats bought the 520 Hooker moulds and are going to start making some this year .
Might be something to look at .

cheers

[craigie]

J Man,

I have my Cyclone 540 Side-Console on the market, sounds a lot like the boat you have described to meet your needs ! It is certainly the way I have used it for the 10 years I have owned it. Original owner, ordered from the factory in North Queensland. In the right conditions it will do close to 39 kn although I'm more of a 20kn cruiser. equiped with a 115 hp Merc Optimax and SmartCraft gauges.
The full add is in the classifieds section and on Boatsales.com.au

Have attached a pic

Regards
Craig

[Spectre]

Nice looking rig Craigie.....shouldn't last long on the market.
Cheers Phil

[craigie]

Thanks Phil,

Yeah I think it's a hot boat, great looks and performance and extremely versatile.
To get one custom built these days you would be looking at 50K and considering mine is in good knick, I think it's well priced.

Regards
Craig