Input on "other brands"

[Monroe Boater]

If I was looking to purchase another bowrider, I would not hesitate to go back to what we have owned previously, a Chaparral SSI series. Many were loaded up with options and were built using top notch components. They were very well built "mass produced" boats on par with Sea Ray bowriders from that time. For higher end, (because you are looking used) keep a lookout for a Bryant or Cobalt. They are great quality, but are not as easy to find.

 

[dpvandy01]

Came down to a 2011 Crownline 180 and a 2012 Sea Ray 185 Sport,,,,,,, well,,, let's hear it for brand loyalty and customer appreciation. They took very good care of us, with extended warranty coverage, Sea Ray kicked in some cash back and some boat store credit plus a killer deal through the Costco purchasing program. Costco kicked in an additional $500 gift card to boot. We will sea trial and take delivery on Saturday. I can't wait!!!!!!!

 

[320Bob]

Came down to a 2011 Crownline 180 and a 2012 Sea Ray 185 Sport,,,,,,, well,,, let's hear it for brand loyalty and customer appreciation. They took very good care of us, with extended warranty coverage, Sea Ray kicked in some cash back and some boat store credit plus a killer deal through the Costco purchasing program. Costco kicked in an additional $500 gift card to boot. We will sea trial and take delivery on Saturday. I can't wait!!!!!!!

Congrats you made a great choice. You most likely would have been disappointed with the Crownline because they are not that good a boat anymore. I sea trialled a 2011 Crownline 255 last Fall and was sorely disappointed. The boat had excessive stern wander and when on plane my wife a I got splashed insided the cockpit. Crownline boats are made about 45 miles from where I live in Frankfort IL and they have had financial problems over the years and their boats are made with entirely wooded frames. After my experience I would never recommend a Crownline to anyone if other boats were available. BTW if Skipper Bud's had been willing to take my 320 in trade on a 250 SLX I most likely would be driving it instead of the Chap.