Boat Advice/ Query

[AlexP]

I am doing some research on the pro's & con's of different off shore skiboats.
At the moment I own a 14.8 Super Dolphin monohull with 2 x 40hp.
I will be wanting to upgrade my boat in the next 6 months.


The 2 boats that I have been thinking about are either a Yeld or a Kosi cat. (2nd hand/used)
+_ 16 - 17 feet. Not bigger


I have owned both a forward console and a center console boat, and have enjoyed skippering both.
So at the moment I am not too concerned about this minor detail.


My biggest concerns are broaching, height of the gunnels and the transom. Safety
All relating to steadiness in a choppy or rough sea, fuel economy and the overall ride.


I would appreciate your views and knowledge on the above boats, and even suggestions as to other boats to consider.
Thank you.

[John F]

Yeld cat.

[AlexP]

Thank you for replying.
I have read your posts - from way back in 2018.


I understand that this is a loaded question.... But from what year (hull) should I seriously think about buying?


I am in the process of replacing bulkheads and stringers, and putting on a new deck on my Super Dolphin, and do not want to go through this exercise again. Ever.

[tkei]

For ride, yeld. You ask about gunnel and transom height. Wha tis the concern?
Yelds have quite low gunnels, especially the old ones. not ideal for stand up fishing. Great for clearing water off the deck if you take one over the nose whilst suft launching.
In that category, also look at the sea cats. a lot of 510 and 520's been sold (so that is why there are also lots available 2nd hand). They seem to have higher gunnels etc.


As toy from what year. That is a trick question.

[AlexP]

I like the idea of resting my knees against the gunnel when fighting a tuna or a decent bull dorado.
My first boat was quite low in the water, and I found this to be a disadvantage.

[Chukudeer]

I am very happy with my Kosi Cat 17. Doing a lot of drop and turn launching, we can launch this boat with 2 people, it floats in nearly no water. Have had some really hairy launches with having to punch big waves and she took it without any issues. Clears water off the deck pretty fast.


Gunnels are nice and high and perfect for leaning against when jigging or popping. Ride is pretty soft if you distribute the weight in the boat right.
Have not had any issues with broaching, even in big following seas.


Fit and finish on the hatches not that great.


Other than that, great boat for the price.