23 seacraft 1998

[racerjim]

Thank you peter for your response my nieghbor is selling his 1998 hull rigged in 2001 W/ 250hp yamaha w aluminium trailer for 15000.00. The main reason I was interested in this boat I know the history and I dont think it has seen the water more than a dozen times the boat is immaculate. He is in finacial trouble and needs cash seems like a great deal according to nada boat values .But i am very interested in knowing what type of problems the newer boats have and what to look for I realize they dont build anything like they used to. I am not interested in debating new vs old just looking for info & how they compare with other modern boats do they still have the legendary ride? any info is greatly appreciated

[peterb]

Here is my opinion on a couple of fronts.

First, regarding the comparing of the old classic hulls to the new hulls the main difference is that the old boats were hand built with pure quality in mind. Quality was everything. Money was lost by the owner, but he would not give into quality.

The newer boats have been built on more of an assembly line mentality. If you go to places like the thehulltruth and other boating werb sites, you will read that there are many new SeaCraft owners who have great boats.

Second, regarding your neighbors "deal", unless there is something very wrong (such as the hull is crap or the engine is about to go) that is a steal. It is about $8k to $12k less than I would have guessed.

If I were you this is what I would do

1) Hire a boat surveyor with a good reputation. If you want I can send you an example of a good survey report.
Act fast.
2) Go to other web sites (not too many) and get other people to weigh in.

Please let us know how it works out for you.

Peter