I started off with a 15' inflatable and 40HP motor. Soilid boat. Relatively cheap to buy, incredibly stable, tough, easy to manage solo, economical, etc. Downsides are that it is not very comfortable, very hard on the lower back especially with wind chop and there's no shelter from the elements. If you are young and hardy it's not such a big deal but as you get older these drawbacks take a toll.
Currently have an Arima -- built by the company that makes Defiance boats out of Bremerton. They have a great reputation with a loyal following. Tons of deck space and storage for its size, very seaworthy, economical with a 4 stroke, and an open bow makes it easy to pull anchor solo. Mine has a hard top for wind/sun protection, so it gets used 12 months of the year.
There's no such thing as an ideal boat -- all boats are a floating compromise LOL -- but so far it's working well for me.
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