Real World Use of a 23'

[gofastsandman]

Another option would be a Konrad drive. This is an outdrive without a transmission. Basically a lower unit. This would give you speed and handling without the dreaded I/O tranny issues. Bonus: shallow draft and trim vs. a straight shaft. I hope to see one at the show. Hear they are really pricey.Rated for 500+ hp.

GFS

[CValle]

I have a 23' outboard with a single 225 yamaha that I can fish out to Crab Ledge(from Falmouth) and beyond. Pick your days and you should have no problem. I can also get south to the shipping lanes but beyond that requires fuel jugs.

[Blackfin26]

I've also heard great things about the Konrad. That set up requires a set of gears from the engine to jackshaft...no shifting in the IO...the main area for breakdowns. Take a look at the Konrad Sterndrive website...top notch stuff. Boy are we spending sobo's $. I'm guessing 10-15K for their outdrive not to mention the shaft and gears!

[thehermit]

Last summer I paused to take a pic of "osprey" around 22 miles east or S. of the BC. It was very nice day and I was in a 22 HILINER. Never had the pleasure of running a 23 out there but you see 'em out there. The "Mosquito fleet" still seems to be around just not in the same #'s. Like evryone else said....pick your days, plan and plan more and go for it. If your running your Whaler out 8 miles you likely know all about this already see you out there.

[CarlaDee]

My 78 23' Sceptre has made at least 300 trips out of Charleston with runs of typically 45-75 miles. On occassion we have fished as far as 90 miles off, both trolling and swordfishing. IMO, there is no better 23' boat for offshore trips. My boat is completely customized for fishing and has an additional 50 gallons of fuel instead of a head.