What boat would you recommend?

[jk67switzer]

The last fast boat I had was a Switzer Shooting Star. I ran a 150 XS on it in the mid to late 70's. Fun boat - did low to mid 80's in perfect water - but could get a little scarry if the water conditions were not consistent as some here may know. I really liked that motor and knew how to work on it if required, so I recently bought another one and am now looking for the right boat to put it on. I'd prefer a tunnel around 16 - 17 ft. A four seater would be my first choice but I may consider a two seater. At this stage of my life, quality, performance and safety are probably what I'm looking for most - a top speed in the 70's would be a good target. This will just be a fun boat for my wife and I to use occasionally - no racing involved. The water conditions where I run are usually pretty smooth, so I'd want something that runs well in a light chop and could take up to 1 ft waves or so comfortably if need be. I'm not looking for a new boat, but one in really nice condition. I would consider an 80's vintage in mint condition, or a more modern boat. What would people recommend as a nice boat that you think would fit these requirements and run well with a 150 XS, that I should put on my list to try and find?

[ChrisGUGA]

Wait for more experienced boaters to answer, but I'd look into an STV Euro, personally. That boat would do all that you ask.

[JWTjr.]

A 150XS will not perform well on a STV Euro, let alone push it 70+ mph. Not enough torque, boat too heavy, and not enough lift relative to available horsepower.

In today's market, you're pretty limited as to what will fulfill all you requirements with that engine. A Magnum Missle or Carlson Contender tunnel are two that come to mind; both will run over 70 with your engine, run pretty well with two aboard, and have a decent ride for cruising. If you'd expand your search to include V-hulls, you'd do better in available selection. In that case, a HydroStream Viper, Vandal, Ventura, Vector, Vamp, Verado or Viking will all work well. Allison's 15 and 16 will also work but are not as seaworthy for passengers.

John

[RNM018]

Most STV Euro,s are heavier lay up , and I don't think your 150 xs Inline , will push one very well . I'm thinking more along the lines of an STV/Laser , Carlson or maybe even a Magnum . A nice clean STV / Laser , will probable be the easier to find , but you will still need a fairly light one to run what you want to .


Rich Martin 018

[BottomsUp]

www.hydrostreamdealer.com

[David]

A Tuff 16 would be all the fun in the world with a good 150XS

http://www.tuffmarine.com/Boat_Pages/TUFF_16.htm

[Storz]

You could sell the XS and upgrade power, it will open up a lot more opportunities.

[rkmirage]

In the 70's there were no gps's, everyone that had a boat that ran in the 80's, mph, was real disappointed to find out the real speed, and also,back then, prop technology was no where near today's. That said, if you're looking for the same speed you felt then, I'm guessing to shoot for mid to upper 60's.
I would look for a 17or 18ft Action, I'm a big Hydrostream fan, but most all of them need a new core. If you could find one that's already been done, then there's nothing better. If you go Hydro, stay away from the air entrapment hulls, you don't have enough power to pack enough air under it. Welcome back to high perf boating, and welcome to Sceam&Fly!

[jk67switzer]

Thanks for all of the comments and suggestions! I'm familiar with some of these boats and I'll do some research on others, and will try to come up with a short list that I can look for and test drive. I know newer / bigger hp would open up more possibilities, but I really like the XS and don't have room for a bigger boat, nor do I need a bigger boat, so will take my time and see what I can find. I'm in no rush.

[Rudeboy]

I had a Switzer and loved it however no one would ride with me anymore. :cool: My Eliminator was a great boat but was super heavy. I bought a 2011 Libertor and love it :thumbsup: I think the Libertor would meet your speed and size/comfort requirements.

[200VEGAS]

v-king maybe

[JWTjr.]

The Action is a great choice as well, I didn't think of that. The Tuff...now that would be cool with a 150xs. Expensive, but cool.

John

[max200]

An older Allison 20 gt would look sharp with the XS

[RNM018]

The Action is a great choice as well, I didn't think of that. The Tuff...now that would be cool with a 150xs. Expensive, but cool.

John

Doesn't Mirage , Mike Mullins build a new 16' Action ?
That would be the ticket for the V Bottom line .
It's got tons of bow lift built into the boat .

Rich Martin 018