Thanks for the feedback so far, including a few PMs. I'm aware that there are perhaps better boats out there, my dream boat is one that I've spent time on with family, Sea Sport. But we find ourselves in a place where we have a set budget for a boat, we aim to fulfil two primary uses (fishing around Victoria and elsewhere on the island, and light cruising - overnighting for a few days with the kids up Desolation Sound), and we don't have a lot of patience. We don't want to go another summer without a boat - it's been 3 years since we sold our last one, and relying on others to get our fix isn't working! The companies we've checked in with are now taking orders for next fall delivery at the earliest. Plus, looking at the market, there are very few boats out there right now - either new on lots or used, there are very few available. I've been watching (and thanks for all the sharing on this forum).
And then there is the cost. We are fortunate to find ourselves in a place where we plan to make this purchase and keep it for a long time to come, but within the budget. The similar Sea Sports are significantly more than we intend to spend, and from the quotes I've started to receive from other well known aluminum builders, the same goes those.
I should mention - this plan is not only wife approved, she is driving the boat so to speak! Loves fishing as much as me, but has certain requirements, including the comfort of a cabin, overnight capability etc. So this seems to check the boxes. We are well aware that it isn't necessarily the smoothest ride, may be louder than we are used to (but out last boat had a loud 2 stroke...) and we'll have to learn to handle it, but we also pick our days and location carefully. That being said, a sea trial is a must, and if I can get an extra one in on the island without having to go to Van, that would be ideal. Thanks again for the input.
