geoff3d:
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Can anyone recommend a not overly expensive boat that might have a better aspect to entering / exiting the water? I'm having a little trouble searching for a "dive boat review", as all I keep getting is results for dive boat packages and holidays etc.
Cheers,
Geoff
This is a difficult question without more parameters. I think you'll find your boat purchase decision very iterative.
I own a 19' cuddy cabin Bayliner Capri. I have owned this boat since 2000 (I bought it brand new) and I use it hard. These are reasonably priced, reliable, and emphasize the "big stuff" (engines, systems, space engineering) but do not offer the nicest trimmings. What I mean by trim is fancy gauge housings, color schemes, etc. When I was shopping I considered several brands offering 19' cuddy cabin boats. My priorities were best suited by the Bayliner. It offered the largest cabin, the best space engineering for diving needs (ability to store gear/tanks), the same engine as the other boats (Merc 3.0L with Alpha 1 outdrive), same warranty, swim platform, and the best price by about $2000. I have added many things to my boat. This year I added a "real" X-mas tree dive ladder. This enables me to climb out wearing doubles. Previously (using the factory ladder) I would have to roll out of my gear, attach it to a line, climb up, then lift the gear onboard. I can carry 3 tech divers and 1 topside support person on my boat. This allows enough room to shift the gear out of the cabin and overnight. I also have a stand-up canvas enclosure that can extend to the back of the boat.
If you are going to boat on the ocean you need either a cuddy cabin or an open boat with scuppers (holes in the back that will let water out). Unless you only cruise in lake like conditions (pretty much never on the ocean) you would not want an open bow cruiser. One wave over the bow and you instantly have 100lbs of water on board. Plus the wind, spray, and usually colder temps make them impractical. A cuddy cabin will spill the water over the side of course.
If you buy a used boat - get a marine survey. This costs about $350 and is worth every penny if you use a reputable surveyor. Many, many, many boaters have made the mistake of buying a used boat without a survey to discover significant repair costs a short time later. If you have a marine mechanic friend that is another story of course. I would also suggest you buy the largest boat that you can afford to have fully equipped. A 19' well equipped boat is much safer than a 22' boat with limited equipment. Anticipate thousands of dollars in equipment from the USCG required safety gear to bottom paint to electronics, etc. If you plan to slip or keep it on a mooring there are additional costs which may include a dinghy and small outboard engine (unless you want to row).
Boat Test is a good resource:
http://www.boattest.com/main.aspx
Many boats have online owners clubs as well. The Bayliner Owners Club is an extremely useful resource for me.
http://pub12.ezboard.com/bbocweb Several members are marine mechanics for example. You can also get a sense of others experience with a particular model. Ideas for where to buy certain accessories, additional gear installation tips, etc.
Good luck with your search.
--Matt
