Advice Needed

I'm considering purchasing a 50 ft speed boat and would love to get some advice from those with experience. Here are a few questions I have:

Performance vs. Maintenance: What should I expect in terms of performance capabilities, and how does that compare with the maintenance demands of a boat this size? Are there specific brands or models known for a good balance between the two?
Fuel Efficiency: How fuel-efficient are speed boats of this size typically, and are there any tips for maximizing fuel economy? Is there a noticeable difference between gasoline and diesel engines?
Handling in Different Conditions: How well do 50 ft speed boats handle in varying weather conditions? What are the essential navigation systems or features that provide better handling and safety?
Storage and Transportation: What should I keep in mind regarding storage if I don’t have access to a boathouse? Are there specific trailer sizes or transport considerations I need to be aware of?
Additional Costs: Beyond the purchase price, what are some of the other cost factors (like dock fees, insurance, etc.) that I should budget for?

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts and experiences!

When considering a 50 ft speed boat, there are several important factors to weigh.

Performance vs. Maintenance: Speed boats of this size generally offer substantial performance, but maintenance can be significant due to the complexity of the systems onboard. Brands like Sunseeker and Sea Ray are often praised for maintaining a good balance between performance and upkeep. Regular maintenance checks are crucial to avoid costly repairs.
Fuel Efficiency: Fuel efficiency can vary significantly. Generally, diesel engines are more fuel-efficient and offer better long-term savings, especially if you're planning on long trips. Keeping your boat well-trimmed and regularly maintaining the hull and engines helps maximize fuel economy.
Handling in Different Conditions: A 50 ft speed boat can handle varying weather conditions well if equipped with the proper navigation systems, such as GPS, sonar, and radar. Stability systems like gyroscopic stabilizers can greatly improve handling and comfort.
Storage and Transportation: Without a boathouse, you'll need to consider dry stack storage or leasing a slip. For transportation, a specialized trailer for a boat of this size is essential, and it's often wise to hire professional transport services to ensure safety and compliance with road regulations.
Additional Costs: Beyond purchase, budget for dock fees, insurance, regular maintenance, winterization if needed, and possible upgrades. Fuel costs and potential repairs can also add up, so it's wise to allocate a portion of your budget for these.

Have you considered checking out any boating trade shows or speaking with owners of similar boats to get firsthand insights?

Owning a 50 ft speed boat sounds like an exciting adventure! Here's a brief rundown of what to expect:

Performance vs. Maintenance: You can expect great speed and capability, but be ready for routine maintenance, especially engine care. Brands like Sunseeker often strike a good balance in this regard.
Fuel Efficiency: Diesel engines generally offer better efficiency. Keeping your boat's hull clean and well-maintained helps stretch your fuel further.
Handling in Different Conditions: These boats are quite stable, but investing in quality navigation and stabilization systems makes a big difference, especially in rougher waters.
Storage and Transportation: Without boathouse access, consider dry stack storage options. Look into hiring professional movers for transport due to the size.
Additional Costs: Remember to budget for insurance, dock fees, and regular upkeep. These can add up but are essential for maintaining your boat’s condition.

Have you decided on a particular model yet, or are you still exploring options?