CONTINUOUSWAVE

I never thought I'd ever buy a new boat, but my 1987 Montauk 17 has become a project boat and the local BW dealer is offering some pretty good incentives on leftover 2015 and special order 2016.

I'm leaning towards a 2016 Dauntless 170 with the following options. I'd appreciate any comments / advice on the options and price before pulling the trigger. I'm really interested in opinions regarding the 90 vs. 115 HP engine. Has anyone had any experience with the Cockpit table? That's an option my wife really wants. Also, has anyone put a trolling motor on the 170 Dauntless and if so, what size?

Selected Optional Equipment:

Canvas

Console cover (black)
Reversible pilot seat cover (black)
Sun-top with boot (black)

Colored Hull - Classic Desert Tan hull side gelcoat accent color (red graphics)

Engine- 115 ELPT EFI Command Thrust FourStroke Mercury® engine

Fishing

Tackle storage
Trolling Motor Panel

Notable Options / Accessories

Cockpit table
Raw water washdown

Seating

Bow cushion
Pedestal fishing seat (1 at bow)
TOTAL PRICE WITH FREIGHT AND SELECTED OPTIONS: $40,000.00

In my opinion, Boston Whaler underpowers it's current models.

If you look at the weights and hp ratings of the classics, you can see there is a higher weight to power ratio.
The classic Montauk was rated at 90 hp and it weighed ~900 lbs dry. The 2016 Dauntless 17 weights 1,680 lbs and has a max hp rating of 115 and engine weight of 410 lbs.

Don't be fooled by their performance reports. http://www.bostonwhaler.com/boat_graphics/electronic_brochure/Company94/_58_918201544052PM.pdf. They test their boats with 2/3 fuel, 20 lbs of test gear and 2 people. In real life the anchor, chain and rode weigh that. Load the boat with 4 people, cooler full of ice, food, clothes and fishing gear.

Did you see the 2014 Dauntless for sale in the Marketplace?
http://continuouswave.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=370

Thank you Phil T. I had already reviewed the pdf you posted and it looked like the 90 and 115 performed about this same until much higher in the power band. But your point is spot on. I'll go with the 115.

I, too, recommend the 115 HP power. Insist on a stainless steel propeller if it is not standard. I would skip the covers and purchase an aftermarket Carver Sunbrella cover in red to match your graphics. Much better price and excellent quality cover. I' didn't notice any reference to trailer options. If you will be trailer boating in mostly salt water I recommend you purchase with the aluminum trailer option. The galvanized trailer is fine for fresh water with some salt water use. The cocktail table can be useful for cruising but in the way for fishing.

Finally, in regard to power I would insist the dealer commit to free engine height adjustment and to allow for trial of the standard propeller with a full value refund on the propeller if it does not perform as required. My Dauntless 16 when purchased new was not set up with the engine at the appropriate height or the optimum propeller. I was out of pocket a few hundred

Please keep us updated as this boat is of interest to me in the future (maybe)