Jdpber wrote:
for the same money i could do 3 options:
1) much larger cruiser that sleeps more in comfort.
2) used larger cruiser and save money
3) cheaper larger used cruiser and a small bowrider
If you want a cruiser, then all of these options are great alternatives --- but I had a chance to drive the Horizon 350 factory prototype last year (moved it to and from the Annapolis boat show and a couple of demo rides) and was absolutely surprised at how much I liked it. If you do not need or want the full cabin overnight accommodations --- but you do want to have a blast with not only your whole family, but most of the neighborhood too --- then this is the boat.
The prototype was loaded and had, if I remember correctly, twin 435's. Running wide open in a 2+ foot chop on the way to stage for the show left me with a grin that I couldn't get rid of. It is big, beefy, loads of comfortable places to relax -- and handled like a 290, only a lot more comfortable.
I believe a ballpark price for a loaded 2017 Horizon 350 (gen, AC/heat, windlass, cockpit fridge, prem sound, radar and cockpit and bow covers + more) with twin 300's is in the $260K range. (with freight and prep, but not taxes and registration). More horsepower isn't cheap -- upgrading to twin 380's with joystick controls adds about 35K -- but only a couple of mph.
It is not for you if you're looking for a cruiser --- but for a day boat with adequate overnight accommodations for a couple it is a great option to consider.
Mike