Which boat?

[Jonboy_t]

I don't frequent the B,P&T section very often, so apologies if this is a dull and tediously repeated question!!

I'm in the market for my first boat at the moment. I've not got much experience (been out a few times) but am going to be doing a few courses (RYA level 2) and going on a couple of mates boats before I even entertain the idea of trying it myself, so this is more of a hypothetical, mull it over kinda question.

I'm looking for something around (or below) the £5k barrier and would like to use it mainly for sea fishing, but also general cruising/relaxing, Sundays on the river etc aswell. It's unlikely there will ever be more than 2 or 3 people joining me on her at any one time, so size is pretty flexible.

I've got an image in my head and am thinking along the lines of a Shetland or similar - small cabin, small deck and (perhaps more importantly as a novice) small engine. I have also been looking at more open speed-boat styles rather than the cabin-cruiser style too, but not entirely sure this would be a good idea for a first timer.

As this is my first foray, am I looking at completely the wrong style for what I want it for? Would a £5k boat be too small/unstable to do what I'm looking at doing?

[danyeates]

Orkney 520 with a 30hp, or something similar like a Predator, Warrior, Quicksilver. Something 5m up to 50hp I think would suit you.

[Simpo Two]

Here are a few little ones in your price bracket:

www.jonesboatyard.co.uk/boat-sales/boats-for-sale-...

[andy c]

On a topic aside, RYA 2 is great.For confidence, cover every eventuality before you go out to sea and take an experianced friend with you the first time.An auxiliary engine to get you home is essential.

[Jonboy_t]

andy c said:

On a topic aside, RYA 2 is great.For confidence, cover every eventuality before you go out to sea and take an experianced friend with you the first time.An auxiliary engine to get you home is essential.

I've got a good friend who is very experienced and he's agreed to take me out on his (£30k!!!!) boat to give me some experience. Silly, silly man!

RYA is definitely going to happen before I even begin to think about starting to look at thinking of potentially thinking about buying a boat (?).

[Biggles111]

I was in a similar position to you; I did RYA level 2 in the summer and bought a Shetland 535 with a recent 50HP Evinrude and a new 3.5 auxiliary. With a trailer this came in at around half your budget. I then had enough to spend quite a lot on lifejackets, flares, warps, anchor, charts, waterproof etc, not cheap when you buy it all in one go.

It's a great little boat for a beginner, does what it needs to do, seems robust, picks up quite enough speed for its size, and goes through smallish waves very nicely. I'm doing a radio course next month and am already looking at what boat I could go for next if I get a bonus this year.

Whatever you buy at this end of the market may not have much engine service history, so assume the worst and put the motors in for a service as early as you can. It will also probably be on an older trailer. Check the trailer condition carefully before you tow it home; mine had a badly worn hitch and brakes that needed some work. All sorted by a trailer specialist but could catch the unwary.

[Rum Runner]

For 8k http://northwales.boatshed.com/quicksilver_450-boa...
5K http://northwales.boatshed.com/mehrzweckboot_texas...
Both in super condition....

Edited by Rum Runner on Saturday 16th October 10:01

[Jonboy_t]

Rum Runner said:

For 8k http://northwales.boatshed.com/quicksilver_450-boa...

Edited by Rum Runner on Saturday 16th October 10:01

Me likey!!!

[Rum Runner]

Call me if you want any more info. The boat is outside the office...good engine the Honda 50. I used a couple for a good number of years for RYA Powerboat training on our RIB's. They run all day on 5 gal of fuel.
Probably going to get one of these myself http://northwales.boatshed.com/ocqueteau_615-boat-...

Edited by Rum Runner on Saturday 16th October 17:35