1997 Outrage 17 vs 2004 Dauntless 18

[gringotim5]

Hi
I am new to Continuouswave and looking to buy my first boat and want it to be a Boston Whaler. I would like some advice? I am looking at two different boats. 2004 Dauntless 18 feet ($13k) with a 135 optimax and a 1997 Outrage 17 feet (10k) 115 Yamaha. I will be using the boat in the bay and offshore a little bit. I would like to use it to fish and Cruise around with the family.
Thanks for any information and advice.

[Phil T]

While adequate, both candidate boats have midline horsepower motors. This is important to note for loading and activities.

The Dauntless offered the 135hp in 2004 but later upped the optional motors to 150 in 2005 and later.
The Outrage 17 II has a maximum hp rating of 150 as well.

The Outrage 17 II has a better offshore ride and is smooth in the chop. The Dauntless offers smooth ride on lakes, rivers and near shore. In 3'ers I would want the Outrage.

The Dauntless 18 offers better seating options with the built in rear bench seat, casting platform, livewell The Dauntless line is marketed as a family cruising, fishing machine.

Which has better local service in your area Mercury or Yamaha?

[gringotim5]

Thank you for your reply. I believe they are both represented very well.

[Tacky79]

Are you sure of that price of the 2004 Dauntless 180? For $13k, I'd buy 10 of them and profit $100,000.

It seems to me that the '04 Dauntless would be in the $25k range for a nice boat. A 2000 Dauntless 180 sold for about $20k not too long ago.

I've been hunting for the right Dauntless 180 or Montauk 190 and they are being snapped up fast.

[Masbama]

With that Dauntless price you could sell the 135 Merc and put a new 150 Merc 4S and have a sweet boat.

[Jefecinco]

Agree with Tacky and Masbama. Plus I don't think you mentioned what Yamaha engine although it would still be under powered.

[gringotim5]

Thanks for the info. The price for the Dauntless is right. I bought it for a little less. It does need some cosmetic work and I am waiting for the mechanic to look over the engine. So we will see how that checks out.

Also, the previous owner must of let it sit in the water for awhile. It looks like it had some barnacles on it that have been scrapped off. The hull looks to be ok with no penetrating marks from the barnacles. What do I need to do to clean the hull? Make it smooth and white again?Can a marine detailing person do it or do I need to take to a marina?

Thanks for your help

[Jefecinco]

Post some pictures of the area needing attention. Include something in the pictures to indicate scale.

[jimh]

Please use REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS to solicit advice on making repairs.

[gringotim5]

I posted a pic and a thread in REPAIRS and MODIFICATIONS if you want to check it out.