And the beauty of being in this situation, is you get to go boat shopping!
So many really good boats out there, new and used!
But what you must remember most of all, is that there is no such thing as the perfect fit boat, there are just too many variables. More than one model or even style may fit your stated needs but with some compromise, and personal preference will play a big role in the final selection.
Pontoon boats are VERY different than fiberglass boats, and in both cases the prices vary a lot depending on the features you end up wanting. Power and speed are not the same thing, and comfort and function and beauty are different for any group of people you will ask about their preference.
The best thing you can do is to look at a lot of boats and test drive a few of the ones you narrow the list down to.
In the end you will struggle to define what you need vs what you like/want.
So if you can figure out a few things right up front, that will help.
You state you need to seat 12 people; is that just for a short trip, or a longer trip, or all day on the boat? And what will they do on board, just ride, or do you expect to haul 12 people and hit 50 MPH AND pull a tube, or even harder, teach a grown full size human man how to water ski on inexpensive generic skis, and then have space to store drinks and towels and snacks for everyone AND store fishing gear??? Its tough to get a boat that can do all these things at the exact time. If you can do some of this some times and others at other times you will find more options to fit your budget.
Also dont forget you need to think about if this boat will mostly live on a trailer, on a dock in the water, on a dock out of the water (on a lift), at a marina, or at a valet marina. And what about winter storage??? These are all issues each boat owner deals with and there are many different combinations each boat owner here has to make it work for them.
After some consideration, if there are models you would like to look at closer and not get the dealers pitch, just post something here and I feel certain you will get answers to your questions and offers of rides. I sure did when we were last shopping, and so I will happily offer a tour of a Formula 270 Bow Rider and test ride should you have any desire.
Enjoy the shopping but do your research as its a big commitment and it can be so disappointing if you pick the wrong one. And when you get the right one, its a lot of fun, and brings lots of smiles and memories for everyone!
ATB
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