What Is Sport Boat To Replace The Monaco...

I currently have a 1985 SR 197 Monaco. For those that do not know, she is the equivalent to a 21' bowrider. It runs great but is starting to get pretty old so I am beginning to learn what might make the best replacement.

The Goals:

More freeboard and stability for Lake Michigan.

A small usable head for the Admiral and her friends.

At least as fast as the Monaco that runs 50 mph.

8'6" beam and trailer.

Under $25k and would love something at the $15k level.

No older than 1995.

Prefer MPI.

Have looked at Cobalt 252, Chap 256. What SR best replicates those?

MM

Mike,

Try a late 90s/early 2000s 260 Bow Rider, preferably with a 454 Mag.

It just seems so limited that the 260BR is the only option I have seen.

MM

The Sundeck 240, years 2003 - 2009 seems to be the most popular boat that meets your requirements. You can move up to the 270 or down to the 220 depending on what size feels best, features are pretty similar. The base 5.0 MPI goes about 43 mph, while the 350 MPI and 6.2MPI are 50+ mph boats. There was a pump out head option if your dock has the pump out kit, the base model you dump at the house. Well maintained ones with bigger engine are up around $25k while $15k is very doable if you are willing to put in some work on cosmetic/electric details. They all had camper top options, replacements are available from the oem canvas outfit Great Lakes boat. Might be handy on bigger water.