Whaler for Lake Ontario

[mutiny]

Here's the story:

Years ago we had a 17' Bayliner I/O bowrider (a Mutiny, not one of the commonly known bay models). Sold the tow vehicle (Bronco), so sold the boat.

Now we really want a boat again, but our tow vehicle is a 2004 Subaru Forester XT (turbo) with an automatic transmission and 153K on the clock. We live on (western) Lake Ontario and would be boating there as well-near shore, and possibly the lower river (Niagara River). Just cruising, no fishing. Hubby had back surgery over winter, we're not looking to be jumping waves or anything crazy-just getting back onto the water.

Looking for something the Foz can tow (has a 2500lb capacity but I don't want to push that, it does have some miles on it --I laugh aloud--) but can handle the lake. We're not looking to go out in heavy seas, but it's Lake Ontario-it can change from calm to choppy pretty quick. It's not a lake to underestimate. This is what lead me to look at the Whalers-from my understanding they are pretty stable boats, even in the 13' and 15' range.

Would we be good with the 13' or should we move up to the 15'? the 13' would be easier to store-it would fit in our shed, where the 15' would have to sit out with a cover.

I should mention we're looking used. There's a 13' 1960's that needs a little work for 1200 nearby-that is within the budget. I'd like to stay under $2K.

[jimh]

The most restrictive item in your list of criteria is your $2,000 budget. You will be lucky to find a decent 13-foot Boston Whaler, on a road-worthy trailer, with a working engine at that price.

[mutiny]

Yeah, I figured that while looking at them. Hoping to maybe pick one up at the end of the season, although now would, of course, be nicer. Open to buying a boat without a motor then finding the motor if it works out to a better deal.

[Dutchman]

Where you want to boat I recommend at least a 15' and yes your car will tow it.