Help! Decisions-Decisions

[Buzbomr]

Hi everyone!
I'm new to the forum but can't tell you how helpful and informative this group has been in my search for my first Checkmate.

I'm looking at two different models tomorrow, a 88' Senator and a 88' Skimate. Both look to be in incredible shape but i'm struggling to understand the differences between the two.

I'll primarily be using it to enjoy time on a large river that empties into a large saltwater bay. The bay can get choppy but i'll be avoiding days when that is predictably the case. Also would like to spend days at the lake with my small family with a little tubing here and there.

Is there one hull design more well suited for this than the other? Are there any other important pros or cons to consider?

Thank you so much for your expertise in advance!@
-Chris

 

[DropTop5.0]

Welcome.

I prefer outboards due to the ease of working on them and old boats need a lot of work. Next I would say larger is better for the ride but they eat more gas and take more money. Go as big as you can afford. Lastly, I just think Skimates are cool and there are not too many around.

 

[Buzbomr]

Just wanted to close the loop on this and thank you for your thoughts DropTop -
I looked at both and although I couldn't have gone wrong, the Skimate was in such incredible shape that I couldn't walk away from it. Given it's rarity i'm sure that will pose it's own problems but thanks again for your reply -

-Chris

 

[DropTop5.0]

I'm sure its rarity won't give you too may problems. Being thirty years old might though.

Start a thread and post up some pics. We're a bunch of picture whores.

 

[karzrus]

Buying the boat in better condition is always the right call.