For 12 people you would do well to seriously consider a pontoon. Bow riders are great, we have a 27’ Cobalt, but it would need to be considerably larger for 12. Especially if people are going to have any space at all. And don’t forget the needed room for coolers, toys, towels, and all the rest. Also, when you go larger you’re more likely getting into twin engines which increases maintenance costs. Larger also equals increased costs for storage.
It’s important to know that when looking at a boat’s stated capacity it is listed as number of people OR total weight which includes gear, coolers, etc. So you can have up to x number of people or up to xxxx pounds of people and gear. Unless you’re carrying a lot of kids it’s quite likely the weight limit will be reached first.
(The exception is with larger boats which may be “yacht certified”. On these it is the captain’s responsibility and liability to determine a safe number of passengers and weight.)
Conditions can be a factor as well. A rough windy day, or typical weekend around the Weirs, and a loaded up boat may not be comfortable, or in some cases safe.
So perhaps think about how you plan to use it, and how often you’re likely to have 12 aboard, as that may help you refine your choice.
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NHskier
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