New guy here.

[rosco61]

New guy here from just North of Boston on the coast. My wife and i have been out of boating for over a decade and are considering getting new boat and a slip. I am going to retire here shortly so i need another hobby to soak up some time.
Boating has always been a passion for me since dad moved us into Marblehead in 1971.
I like the looks of the Downeast boats a lot and the protection they offer from the weather. So basically i am just starting out again fresh.
I have a strong mechanical back ground so routine maintenance is not a problem at all. I don't want a project boat either.
A brand new boat is not out of the question A good used boat in the 24 to 32 foot range is another option.. I have seen a few nice used boats in here and have seen the Eastern line like the 248. So as i am just starting this journey again and virtually know nothing about this class of boats I hope to pick up some great tips here at your website.
Thanks!

 

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Hi, lots of good information here, light years ahead of The Hull Truth. Cool thing here is if something isn't right the person owning it won't hide behind it. They'll come right out and talk about it. Like the Packard ad said, "Ask the man who owns one".

 

[ArchHibb]

Welcome Rosco. You’ve come to the right place. This group is full of helpful suggestions. What kind of boating activities are you & your wife interested in?

 

[rosco61]

Welcome Rosco. You’ve come to the right place. This group is full of helpful suggestions. What kind of boating activities are you & your wife interested in?

A good question. Just day trips up the coast or maybe down to the cape for a overnight weekend stay. Evening harbor cruises. Fishing for bluefish off the B Buoy or striper fishing off the rocks . Just want to get out on the water again.

 

[Bern]

Is trailerability a priority; if so, how big is your tow vehicle?

 

[rosco61]

I have no wish to trailer the boat. If I had to I have a 2019 Ram Laramie with the 8 cylinder and tow package.

 

[Bern]

Bigger will be more comfortable for the overnights, enclosed head is a necessity. My wife and I are into about the same uses. We settled on a Wayne Beal 28. There a lot of great 26 and 28 designs out there. The 26 General Marine or an AJ28 is a can't miss. 26 Fortier is a favorite, too. I'm sure there are other members with more wisdom that will add on.

 

[xbskt]

Bigger will be more comfortable for the overnights, enclosed head is a necessity. My wife and I are into about the same uses. We settled on a Wayne Beal 28. There a lot of great 26 and 28 designs out there. The 26 General Marine or an AJ28 is a can't miss. 26 Fortier is a favorite, too. I'm sure there are other members with more wisdom that will add on.

Does your Wayne Beal have an enclosed head below?

 

[Bern]

yes, its the door at the bottom of the pic.

 

[Kailua Kid]

New guy here from just North of Boston on the coast. My wife and i have been out of boating for over a decade and are considering getting new boat and a slip. I am going to retire here shortly so i need another hobby to soak up some time.
Boating has always been a passion for me since dad moved us into Marblehead in 1971.
I like the looks of the Downeast boats a lot and the protection they offer from the weather. So basically i am just starting out again fresh.
I have a strong mechanical back ground so routine maintenance is not a problem at all. I don't want a project boat either.
A brand new boat is not out of the question A good used boat in the 24 to 32 foot range is another option.. I have seen a few nice used boats in here and have seen the Eastern line like the 248. So as i am just starting this journey again and virtually know nothing about this class of boats I hope to pick up some great tips here at your website.
Thanks!

As mentioned, lots of good first hand information here. As you will see, there are many good choices in the size range you mention. My vote would be for a 28-32’ used downeast boat in good condition, including as determined by a competent marine surveyor, rather than a new boat. A well maintained used boat, with good maintenance records, can provide many years of reliable service. Since you do not need to trailer your boat, might as well focus on the larger boats. The bigger boat will be generally more comfortable and safer, etc. and provide greater range. Welcome aboard the forum!

 

[rosco61]

Thanks to everyone for the replies and welcome! Advice is always appreciated !

 

[ARC]

Welcome and if you see a listing that is not near you , just ask. Someone will take a look for you.

 

[xbskt]

Thanks to everyone for the replies and welcome! Advice is always appreciated !

What is your budget? It is a big piece of the puzzle?

 

[rosco61]

What is your budget? It is a big piece of the puzzle?

I’d like to keep it under 120k. Looks like I can get a very decent boat for less than that which would be nice.
I do like the idea of a brand new boat but I do realize their are good owners out there selling decent equipment. We shall see.

 

[xbskt]

I’d like to keep it under 120k. Looks like I can get a very decent boat for less than that which would be nice.
I do like the idea of a brand new boat but I do realize their are good owners out there selling decent equipment. We shall see.

I think you will be fine. A little luck and a lot of paying attention will yield you something that ticks a lot of your boxes. I would look for a quality used rather than pay for new but that is just me.
Good Hunting.

 

[Bern]

If you're set on new in the $ 120 K range, you're maybe maxed at an Eastern 24? A member here is doing a Webber's Cove 26 with outboard power, no idea what their pricing is.

 

[xbskt]

33 Nauset on Facebook looks like it would be worth you having a look at.

2005 Nauset Marine 33

2005 Nauset hardtop cruiser. 33’ single screw. Cummins 450 hp diesel with low hours (650). Boat is in great overall condition. Generator is not currently running, haven’t figured it out yet. Other...

www.facebook.com

We all like to spend other peoples money.

 

[rosco61]

My mind is open but a brand new Eastern 248 isn't the worst thing in the world.
Brand new everything with a warranty has some advantages.

 

[Bern]

Absolutely, new boats are awesome!!!....And that new boat smell! I'd at least check with John's Marine Care in New Harbor? on that Webber's Cove 26 as well