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I am starting to want a 27 whaler project boat. I have a 25 Outrage that runs fine, but I want a 27. Does anyone think that its possible to make an even trade on a 27 Whaler project (preferably with a whaler drive) for a 25 that runs and looks good with older motors? I would like to get some good solid info before talking to the future Mrs.
B)
Jesse

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Jesse,

I know what your feeling...Having owned my 25 Outrage since 02, I pondered the idea of moving up into an older 27 Whaler a few years ago. I looked at a 27 Offshore and another boat, I guess it was a 27 Whaler Revenge or Express?...Anyway, they were inpressive with loads of room but they both needed work.

It was tempting to put my boat up for sale and make a move into a 27 but after some serious thought about MY needs and what I could really afford, I decided to keep my boat.

In my situation the 25 just made more sense and here is why. The first problem would be selling my boat. While its in good shape, runs great and is rigged nicely, its still an old boat with old motors. I probably wouldn't get much money for it. I've done many improvements over the years including above normal maintenence on the motors and rigging so I would take a big loss if I sold it. The boat is easily trailerable and I can fuel up on land vs water. I'm sure my truck could pull the 27 but it would be a real pain with such a larger boat in and out of the water all the time. Trailering that thing 2 hours each way for offshore trips would add to the cost as well. A permit may be required when pulling the 27 also due to its wide beam. Do I really want to start fixing up another boat? No, not really, while I do enjoy doing minor things on my boat, I would have to start from scratch with the 27 and who knows what it really needs. I prefer keeping my boat on a trailer, no bottom paint and I can work on it in the driveway. Now, If I had waterfront property it would be a different story because I could keep the boat on a lift and just fill the fuel tanks shuttling some gas cans to and from the gas station. A repower will be necessary at some point, with the 25 I can put on a single 300 Suzuki for 18-20K not so with a 27. I suspect twin 200's would be the min horsepower on that hull and that is another huge cost, 25-30K

I guess it really depends on how much money and time you have? It will take alot of both to take on such a project. After I decided against moving up I focused more on my boat and what it really needed to make it near perfect. I removed the forward cabin, repainted motor cowlings, polished it up, the boat needs nothing, etc etc. Now, I really appreciate it more and I know I made the right decision.

Not sure if any of my ramblings helped you, good luck in your decision, and keep us posted. -Mike

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You made perfect sense. My 25 fits my needs perfectly. I know with the way gas prices are right now, 140 gallons doesn't quite hit the pocket book as hard as 310 gallons.