New to Winni and have boating ?'s

[upthesaukee]

Originally Posted by Dave R

Best advice I can offer, if you can live with the lack of swim platform and don't mind paying a little extra up front, is to get an outboard. They are vastly easier and cheaper to maintain, and hold value better than an inboard outboard. I think an outboard powered 23+ foot dual-console with full canvas would be ideal for an every-day Winni boat.

Added to this: if you get a boat with a little swim platform or a big one, I suggest a 4 step collapsible ladder. which should bolt on where the old ladder goes (usually only 2 steps). You can swim up to it, and then just climb up it onto the platform or boat. Best just over a $100 purchase I have made on the boat.

[jst_4_kiks]

Welcome to the big pond of NH. Many different factors to think about when purchasing a boat.

usage?
can you afford it? (new/used)
reliability?
seating arrangement?
capacity?
kids/pets?
elders/parents?
head or port-a-potty?
water system (sink/shower)?

As for marina's, look into Harilla Landing Yacht Club (www.harilla.org). It is managed by Complete Marine Care (www.completemarinecare.com) on the tip of Long Island at the end of Moultonborough Neck Rd. Brand new fully enclosed storage building for year round storage/protection from the weather.

Happy Boating, See you on the water.

[Lucy Goose]

Originally Posted by jst_4_kiks

Welcome to the big pond of NH. Many different factors to think about when purchasing a boat.

usage?
can you afford it? (new/used)
reliability?
seating arrangement?
capacity?
kids/pets?
elders/parents?
head or port-a-potty?
water system (sink/shower)?

As for marina's, look into Harilla Landing Yacht Club (www.harilla.org). It is managed by Complete Marine Care (www.completemarinecare.com) on the tip of Long Island at the end of Moultonborough Neck Rd. Brand new fully enclosed storage building for year round storage/protection from the weather.

Happy Boating, See you on the water.

Thanks, you are the first to answer the marina question. We will figure out the boat I am sure. Been looking a lot for years. It's just finding the right one. Already have our licenses thanks for the folks who were concerned about that.

[Dave R]

Originally Posted by upthesaukee

Added to this: if you get a boat with a little swim platform or a big one, I suggest a 4 step collapsible ladder. which should bolt on where the old ladder goes (usually only 2 steps). You can swim up to it, and then just climb up it onto the platform or boat. Best just over a $100 purchase I have made on the boat.

Agreed. My boat came with two of these (bow and stern) they make it very easy to climb aboard.

[tis]

If you are going to be in in the broads a lot, I would also suggest the biggest boat you can manage and be comfortable with. On a rough day, I just love our big boat. The broads are very seldom nice and calm.

[meredith weekender]

Welcome to the lake!!!!! As has been mentioned here several times, you need to get what fits your lifestyle. Do not be afraid of a bigger boat, a bigger boat will handle and respond better than a smaller boat. You also want a heavy boat so that you are not tossed around as much. We started on the lake with a four winns 214 fun ship and within 3 years moved into a crownline 270BR. Definitely worth the change. Do not be afraid to test drive your new boat several times before you buy it. When we bought the crownline we must have driven at least six boats and then we drove the crownline at least four times. Good luck.

[Phantom]

I have to agree with those that said "it depends on a lot of factors" ....

Each boat is a little different (interior) and you need to fugure out what best suits YOUR use & needs. For example most new boats come with a sink arrangement-- we have no need and feel it's a waste of usable (seating) space. A cuddy can be handy for changing, putting little ones down for a nap, or simpy a good hide out when the weather turns nasty. However, once again it severely cuts out seating capcity. Another example (in our case) was to look at the rear seating. Most rear bench seats have a "short" back - perhaps 12-15" high. One of the significant reasons we locked into Crownline is their rear bench seat is nearly double that. Our concern was centered around our young Grandgirls in the back while riding. These are only a few examples.

For our family, our 24' Crownline bowrider fits the bill. Would I like a 26' ? Of course, it's what happens when you boat for a number of years you always WANT bigger (we started with a 17.5' stingray many many years ago). With that said, I would hazard a guess and say that most of the "recreational" boats on the lake are between 22 - 28ft. And your all round comfort and smoothness of ride in all conditions will follow the lenght of boat you choose.

One thing thats nice about Winni is the availability to take the boats (new or used) for a test ride and I would encourage you to do so before making any decisions. Each boat handles a little different in given circumstances. Ride them and compare. And don't be bashful to invite friends or family along - it only adds to the "real" feel that you will be using the boat. Example: we always have two people sit in the rear and I check the boats "hole shot" and time to plane.

bj112757--You never mentioned wether you were considering used vs new --One piece of solid advice that I would give if you are buying new is Do Not scrimp on engine size. Most of the "stock boats" are slightly underpowered for their given size. Opt up for the next larger engine available. With that said - in the 22-26ft range a 350 Mag is a workhorse of the industry and will most likely serve your needs should that be the dealers "stock" choice.

[LIforrelaxin]

Alright I will respond here with the biggest question of them all when it comes to looking for a boat. How much experience have you had with Boating. That is the overwhelming factor everyone seems to forget to mention. Additionally have you bought directly on the water, or are you off the water and going to need Valet service or a marina slip for you boat?

While I will agree if you want to wander around the lake, with 5 or 6 people on board and you don't really care about waterskiing, then going after a 22' to 24' boat isn't a bad idea. However if you don't have much experience with a boat this probably isn't such a good idea. The bigger a boat the more of a challenge it is when you get into tight quarters around docks etc. To where a smaller 18' or 19' boat well be a little easier to learn how to dock and manauver around. As you will not feel like you are having to fit into tight spots.

With that said, don't look at purchasing a boat is you have to get it right decision. If you are new to boating, and the lake, as other have said figure what you budget will dictate. My recomendation is to start first with a used boat. 19' to 21'. Get out there and enjoy the lake, for a couple of summers. and then make up your mind as to what you really want.

As for Marinas the only thing I will say is stay away from Trexlers Marina.

Now before everyone jumps on me for recomending a smaller boat. I boat every weekend and go all over the lake in my 19' FourWinns. Yes there are time where my years of experience help out, and keep everyone safe and dry. But I have never felt as though I needed anything bigger to handle the lake. My only reason for going bigger is to handle more people. Add that to the fact that if you own on the water, and have the boat tied to the dock, you can pick and chose when you do or don't want to go out, with out hassle.

[BroadHopper]

to pitch in for gas!

[offmycloud]

Ok - seriously now. It depends what you will use it for. I have a 22 foot wakeboarding boat which is ideal for blasting around the bay, tubing, skiing, listening to music, partying and, of course, wakeboarding. It is not a great boat in which to zip over to Weirs Beach or go thru the broads unless it is fairly calm. These boats can swamp easily so you want to make sure you know what you are doing in the waves. It is also tough to dock as you are dealing with a prop and a rudder which give you little control at docking speed, go IO or outboard for better control.

Definitely go bigger, 25 foot plus, if you are going to spend entire days cruising the lake.

Tell us what you are thinking of buying and why and we'll steer you straight.

[Lucy Goose]

Originally Posted by LIforrelaxin

Alright I will respond here with the biggest question of them all when it comes to looking for a boat. How much experience have you had with Boating. That is the overwhelming factor everyone seems to forget to mention. Additionally have you bought directly on the water, or are you off the water and going to need Valet service or a marina slip for you boat?

While I will agree if you want to wander around the lake, with 5 or 6 people on board and you don't really care about waterskiing, then going after a 22' to 24' boat isn't a bad idea. However if you don't have much experience with a boat this probably isn't such a good idea. The bigger a boat the more of a challenge it is when you get into tight quarters around docks etc. To where a smaller 18' or 19' boat well be a little easier to learn how to dock and manauver around. As you will not feel like you are having to fit into tight spots.

With that said, don't look at purchasing a boat is you have to get it right decision. If you are new to boating, and the lake, as other have said figure what you budget will dictate. My recomendation is to start first with a used boat. 19' to 21'. Get out there and enjoy the lake, for a couple of summers. and then make up your mind as to what you really want.

As for Marinas the only thing I will say is stay away from Trexlers Marina.

Now before everyone jumps on me for recomending a smaller boat. I boat every weekend and go all over the lake in my 19' FourWinns. Yes there are time where my years of experience help out, and keep everyone safe and dry. But I have never felt as though I needed anything bigger to handle the lake. My only reason for going bigger is to handle more people. Add that to the fact that if you own on the water, and have the boat tied to the dock, you can pick and chose when you do or don't want to go out, with out hassle.

We have experience on the ocean and lakes. But why do you say stay away from Trexlers?

[Turtle Boy]

Originally Posted by bj112757

But why do you say stay away from Trexlers?

Ignore this...Trexler's is on his list because they're 1 of 12 marinas and one of 350 local business that support a law unpopular with this poster.

[jmen24]

Originally Posted by Turtle Boy

Ignore this...Trexler's is on his list because they're 1 of 12 marinas and one of 350 local business that support a law unpopular with this poster.

Then why did he only single out this one??? Donk. Worry about yourself and go have lunch with your buddies in Concord.

[hazelnut]

Originally Posted by jmen24

Then why did he only single out this one??? Donk. Worry about yourself and go have lunch with your buddies in Concord.

It has everything to do with the fact that this one certain member thinks that EVERY single post has to do with his agenda. It is AWESOME to watch!

[Seaplane Pilot]

Originally Posted by hazelnut

It has everything to do with the fact that this one certain member thinks that EVERY single post has to do with his agenda. It is AWESOME to watch!

I'm predicting a Scott-Brown like victory for those candidates that are running against any State Rep or Senator that voted/votes in favor of TB's agenda item. I am supporting any Rep or Senator that is running against any one of these noodleback reps in Concord that voted for this garbage. Once again, listen close for the giant flushing sound.

[rockythedog]

Does anyone ever own just one boat in their life? Go out and buy something that you think you can handle, certainly over 22' if you plan on traversing the whole lake. I've got a 27' Cobalt for sale, last I checked it goes 44.9mph. I'm with Seaplane Pilot, throw the bums out.

[Turtle Boy]

Originally Posted by Seaplane Pilot

I'm predicting a Scott-Brown like victory for those candidates that are running against any State Rep or Senator that voted/votes in favor of TB's agenda item. I am supporting any Rep or Senator that is running against any one of these noodleback reps in Concord that voted for this garbage. Once again, listen close for the giant flushing sound.

Some may remember that after initial unsuccessful attempts at passing said law that there were also cries of "throw the bums out" directed at those who had voted for the the law. Ironically,a great many of those opposing the law were the ones voted out in the subsequent election(for various reasons), making way for passage of our present law. I wouldn't expect any giant flushing sounds based on this issue, especially given the very wide margin of support this law enjoys(see statewide poll from a few years ago).

[Seaplane Pilot]

Originally Posted by Turtle Boy

Some may remember that after initial unsuccessful attempts at passing said law that there were also cries of "throw the bums out" directed at those who had voted for the the law. Ironically,a great many of those opposing the law were the ones voted out in the subsequent election(for various reasons), making way for passage of our present law. I wouldn't expect any giant flushing sounds based on this issue, especially given the very wide margin of support this law enjoys(see statewide poll from a few years ago).

Times have changed TB, today isn't a few years ago. People are fed up with all this BS. The State is in the fiscal cess pool, they are on a money grab against businesses, and all these nanny hacks can do is sit around making more laws under the auspices of "safety", rather than focus on REAL problems. You and the rest can paddle around in your canoes, thanking the Reps and Senators for protecting you against the big, bad wolf, but I'm going down swinging!

[rockythedog]

Statewide poll from a few years ago???? Let's try living in the present. I'm done with being told I can't choose what's right for me, that some elected or appointed official knows what's best and wants to fit me into his round hole. Well I'm a square peg, and they better start listening to me.

[sunset on the dock]

Though you have to remember that the support has now become bipartison, and Senator Jeb Bradley(R) has a lot of popular support in the lake's region, and being from Wolfeboro is familiar with a great number of residents and business owners(and their concerns). He and one other Repulican senator who support the bill make this a different ball game than even 2 years ago. I hardly see this issue as one that is of enough significance to the average NH voter that of our legislators in Concord has an overwhelming concern that they'll lose their job over this law. And the House of Representatives gave this law an even higher margin of support 2 years ago(236 to 111).

[rockythedog]

Then Jeb won't get my vote, sunset means sunset,sunset. Another bunch of pols changing the rules, do they really think we're that stupid.

[hazelnut]

Originally Posted by sunset on the dock

Though you have to remember that the support has now become bipartison, and Senator Jeb Bradley(R) has a lot of popular support in the lake's region, and being from Wolfeboro is familiar with a great number of residents and business owners(and their concerns). He and one other Repulican senator who support the bill make this a different ball game than even 2 years ago. I hardly see this issue as one that is of enough significance to the average NH voter that of our legislators in Concord has an overwhelming concern that they'll lose their job over this law. And the House of Representatives gave this law an even higher margin of support 2 years ago(236 to 111).

Rumor has it Jeb is not too happy with the law and the way it is going. "I made a promise" is his latest stance on the issue. I do believe it is KILLING him inside that he made that promise and MARK MY WORDS if he can find a loophole to dismiss this HE WILL. Let's all give him a reason folks stand up and be counted.

Trust me NH the tide is rising and you are about to be swept under... In a good way

[sunset on the dock]

"Rumor has it"...Come on, you can do better than that. There is no shortage of rumors out there. And what reason would Jeb have to make such a promise? If anyone knows the lake and Wolfeboro, he is the one.