Thanks for the response. I have plenty of respect for the sea. I understand that things get bad unexpectedly. Ive been through some nasty seas on the old Mako 171. I have fished some 5-7 days that turned uglier as we went along (young, tough, and dumb). Even a couple Bahama crossings that were pretty tense. It wasnt quite 12-15ft seas but plenty nasty and rough to lose sight of other boats in the trough. When its bad its bad. It doesnt matter much if you are floating on 18ft or 20ft of fiberglass.
With the family, a 20 makes a lot of sense. We get some elbow room. I know the kids wont be with me every time. There social life is only going to get busier. I agree 3-4ppl is pretty cozy for sure on the 18. I will consider the 20. I really wanted to go with the 18 to keep the fuel bill as low as possible in the boat and the Tacoma truck. I have seen many 20's with a bracket. I guess there will be plenty of room if I find one like that.
I know the 18's dont get bracketed much but the 20's do. I better do some more reading on the bracketed 20's.
My expereince with the Seacraft 18 is limited but the couple times I was on it were memorable. Got to love it when your 18 rides as good, if not better than many 20's.
There are many pros to cuddy cabins when the family is onboard but I want to stay with a center console. As long as we have some shade, drinks, food, and tunes we are happy.
Catching fish doesnt hurt either.
I appreciate your opinions so keep them coming. Even if they are dissenting, fire away. Lets just keep the boat from going any bigger. 20ft is the max.
Tony