Boat Virgin! opinions needed

[proty]

Hi all,

New to the boating world and would like some opinions from you more experienced folk.

I currently looking at a couple of boats a searay 215 express cruiser and a Maxum 2100sc, (i know they come from the same stable), and was wondering on peoples thoughts.

The searay has excellent reviews as a first boat, the maxum not so much..
I actually prefer the way the maxum looks on the water. are looks important to you? I really can't decide between the two. would you sacrifice a bit of vanity for what seems to be the better boat?

I'm really not that shallow! but as I've never owned a boat before, just wondering what was your deciding factors for your first boat?.
Also any opinions on these boats?

BTW, i have done my RYA level two and VHF, not that that matters!!

All opinions welcome,
Thank you

Mark

 

[longjohnsilver]

Welcome to the forum. No knowledge of either boat, but I'd suggest you go with whichever suits your needs best. I'm sure they both look fine, and it,s all down to the eye of the beholder. Its how it works for you once you're on board that really counts.
Good luck with it, keep us posted as to how you get on.

 

[Whitelighter]

Of those two Id take the searay - 215 (and later 225) have an excellent hull, very good sea keeping and a strong following that means resale should be easier.

Im sure the Maxum is an ok boat but the marque no longer exists. The Maxumk would have to be significantly cjheaper to make it a contender in my opinion

 

[petem]

I agree with WL, SeaRay are known for good quality boats. Also, there's nothing wrong with basing your purchase on looks as long as the quality is adequate.

Have fun!

 

[julians]

I'd pick the sea ray over a maxum every time.

Dont get me wrong Sea rays are not the best sports boat out there, and they're not as well built as some owners would have you believe (i used to own a sea ray 200 select), but they're decent enough and generally better than maxums IMO.

 

[Coustea1]

I would definitely look at the Sea Ray. That model will offer a reasonably soft ride (depending on conditions of course), and has nice finishes. If you look below the surface you may find that Sea Ray does cut a corner or two on occasions, but I think they are one of the better American sports boat manufacturers out there. I don't know what your cruising ground will be, but they have a dealer in the UK so servicing/repair etc shouldn't be a problem. And it's a petrol engine - no defeat devices needed

 

[proty]

Thanks for the responses,

I am swaying towards the searay, due to the fact it has the porta potty compartment and the sink area, as i like the idea of overnight stays, and as you say the resale may be a bit easier.
I'm in Poole so it would be mostly up and down the coast, bobbing about, nice picnic, quick swim etc.. have to get the wife on board, so the more comfortable the better!!

good stuff

 

[proty]

Update!!

just agreed a price with the owner, a seray 230 signature overnighter.

Looking forward to being on the water

 

[Coustea1]

Congratulations! Wishing you safe and pleasant sailing....

 

[rafiki_]

Yep, many congratulations. Our first mobo was a Sea Ray 22' Cuddy.