Posted Today, 03:06 PM I have a 1991 Carver 370 with 454 merc cruisers, (750 hours). Since I bought this boat in 2008 I have had it rewired, wet sanded and polished (was compounded and polished this month as well) new windless and anchor, new Westerbeak 7.0 Gen, added radar and Lowrance HD Chartplotter, new canvas, new carpet, new bilge pumps, new fresh water pump, new entertainment, et al. This boat has plenty of room and is very comfortable, for two couples. To me it is the perfect lake boat. However, I have recently started to get a bad case of the 2 foot desire. The boat that has my attention is a 45 foot Carver and is a 1999. Diesel and all the bells and whistles. Beautiful boat. One other thing, I own my boat and hence there is no boat payment (this means a lot to me). Why should I move up to the new boat? I know in my own mind the things I am thinking which supports my desire for another boat, and many times our minds are clouded by the newer shiner boat that goes from "wish I had to gotta have". Any thoughts from the group?
It sounds like what you have suits your needs just fine. Personally, I'd rather charter another boat 1-2 weeks a year in an entirely different cruising area such as the Exumas with the money, rather than move up if you have no need to.
I guess I'm lucky or perhaps I chose right the first time. My Carver 355 is the first and last big boat I'll own. It's the perfect size for me my wife, cat and dog. Big enough to be comfortable yet easy to handle in tight spaces. I call that the perfect size.
I thought the same thing for 7 years, however, now I am getting the itch. All the new fiberglass and diesel motors makes me really think about it.
2 foot-itis is generally a 3 year deal. Year one "I love my boat and never want anything different". Year two "I love my boat, but that other one is really nice". Year three "Honey, can we look for something a little bigger so we're more comfortable". So you're well overdue. Boats in this class haven't been selling well since 2008 so there's some good prices to be had; not as good as in '08 or even a couple of years ago, but good. My only caution would be to look at the ones a little bigger to make sure that you'll be satisfied with the 45, just to avoid having the conversation again in 3 years.
Is that a 1999 445? Was looking at 98'445 that was built for for a Carver VP 3 weeks back. Very nice boat.
Thanks for all the advice. After careful consideration (with everyone's input) I decided to stay with my current boat. I have done thousands in upgrades and it is comfortable for me. The only drawback is having to climb the stairs to the cockpit, but I can manage that. Also, it is paid for and that is a big consideration.
"it is paid for and that is a big consideration." HUGE consideration when all you have to pay for is insurance!
HUGE consideration when all you have to pay for is insurance! AND slip fees, maintenance, fuel, upgrades.......
"AND slip fees, maintenance, fuel, upgrades......." Slip fees, fuel and upgrades are a constant. They will remain the same regardless of whether he trades up or not.