First Boat Recommendation for the Chesapeake Bay

Based on your budget, and needs, I would look at '95-'99 330 DA (a very popular boat)... Or, an early 2000's 280 with twin I/Os... You should be able to find one these boats in good condition for under $50K...
 
OK, I'm sensing a pattern. It seems that people are recommending the 280 or something larger like a 330/340. Why is nobody recommending a 300, 310, or 320? Is there something about those boats that makes them less attractive than a 340? Is it a question of value and you get more for your money with the 340? What am I missing?


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The most popular, numerous Sundancer was the 95-99 330... Second to that was the its replacement the 340... So the more boats the more choices... But a 300 or 310 are great boats and I would include them in your search... The 320 came our more recently and you will be hard pressed to find one under $50K
 
Now that we have the money aspect in play, do not rule out an older 390. It is a huge tank. Handles like a dream and with 3208's is very fuel effecient compared to other boats of that size.
 
scooper321 said:
OK, I'm sensing a pattern. It seems that people are recommending the 280 or something larger like a 330/340. Why is nobody recommending a 300, 310, or 320? Is there something about those boats that makes them less attractive than a 340? Is it a question of value and you get more for your money with the 340? What am I missing?


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Best thing to do (and a heck of a lot of fun) is to get online and then start looking at boats in person. 330's are incredibly popular for a reason, as is their replacement the 340. There are a LOT to choose from and it's a buyers market. To me it sounded like the right size boat for the money, your goals, and the area you'll be boating in. You liked the 400 you were on, a 330/340 would give you a closer "feel" to that than a 280. As I had mentioned previously, beam is a big deal. Plus, you'll invariably save yourself at least one step in 3 foot itis, which is expensive. There are a lot on the market, and undoubtedly you could find a super clean one someone has taken the time to put a lot of extra's on. That's something I've learned, it's much cheaper to find one with nice goodies already on it - electronics/maybe sat system/teak decking (if you like that), fresh canvas etc - then to go out and add all of those out of your own pocket.

Have fun.....
 
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Steve,

I was in the same situation early this year and after looking at a lot of options I went with the 340 and could not be happier. With dual drives the boat is easier to handle than my friends singles and the extra room makes it a perfect boat for enjoying the bay. As this is the first boat I have owned I am far from a expert but I wanted to share my feedback. Feel free to PM me if you want.
 
I agree with this as I said before - had I ever known boating would be so enjoyable, relaxing, money hungry ok maybe not that one, I would have never bought the 270SD and bought a 340 of which my good friend was selling his. He is very anal about everything he owns. Must be just right. You'll figure it out. Good luck

SWW said:
Steve,

I was in the same situation early this year and after looking at a lot of options I went with the 340 and could not be happier. With dual drives the boat is easier to handle than my friends singles and the extra room makes it a perfect boat for enjoying the bay. As this is the first boat I have owned I am far from a expert but I wanted to share my feedback. Feel free to PM me if you want.
Click to expand...
 
Well, I made an offer on a 320da this weekend. We shall see if it's accepted!


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Well, my offer on the 320DA was accepted! Got the survey lined up for next week and the insurance and financing in process. Should be splashing by month's end!


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scooper321 said:
Well, my offer on the 320DA was accepted! Got the survey lined up for next week and the insurance and financing in process. Should be splashing by month's end!


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320 is a great boat... It is about the same size of my 340... I am sure you will love the boat...
 
well done....my only suggestion would of been buy the biggest boat you can afford....you eliminate all the footitus stuff from smaller to larger.....I started with a 34...never looked back.
 
Do Over said:
well done....my only suggestion would of been buy the biggest boat you can afford....you eliminate all the footitus stuff from smaller to larger.....I started with a 34...never looked back.
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Ha ha. I did! I was looking at 30 footers from other manufacturers. Plus, the 320 is the one that had the top side layout that I liked the best.



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So the survey and sea trial are both set for Monday. Wish me luck! Stopped by the boat today to see what equipment is on it and what I need. And then made a quick trip to West Marine to take advantage of their big weekend sale. My first book equipment purchase! I think I'm gonna like that store…


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scooper321 said:
So the survey and sea trial are both set for Monday. Wish me luck! Stopped by the boat today to see what equipment is on it and what I need. And then made a quick trip to West Marine to take advantage of their big weekend sale. My first book equipment purchase! I think I'm gonna like that store…


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Click to expand...

Don't forget to tell the folks at West Marine that you are a new boat owner. They give a discount.
 
Ah! I will. I joined BoatUS so I got some discount for that, too (or points). Thanks for the tip!


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