Our island boat is very much like an SUV for us. I love being able to load up the front with stuff coming and going and close the door and window to keep the wind down. I would not let the front be to low if you want to be master of the broads. A wave over the bow has been discussed on this site.
Being on an island also means I like being able to lay long pieces of lumber on the floor to keep the center of gravity low.
When the refrigerator went, the big swim platform came in handy coming and going.
I assume that most boats have power trim but I feel better knowing that I can lift the front in rough weather to keep the family above the water.
The flatter the boat bottom the harder the broads waves are going to be.
Our boat is 21 feet and it is not big enough a few days a year. For us the rough ride is to the island so we never get stranded and have to miss work.
