1984 Sea Ray 34 ' Sedan or a 1984 3270 Bayliner

V

vanwke1

Member
Joined
Feb 7, 2007
RO Number
25151
Messages
6
Wife and I are stuck.
both 1984 and in very good shape. Same hours
and same accessories and both same price.

We do have 2 kids, 1 9 year old and a 5 year old. Both seem good for kids.

we are stuck![:-banghead]

would anyone have any info on the diffrence.

The boat will be used for long weekends and some runs up north to Canada.
 
Why are you stuck? Get the boat you like the most. When boats are over 20 years old brand markings make very little or no difference. You may want to compare usage by checking the hours on the engines and generators.

Whatever you do, have an independent condition survey done before buying. There is a strong likelyhood that both boats have some defects. The boats should be hauled for the survey but check with your surveyor. Some may prefer to inspect the boat afloat first. If serious problems are detected afloat you may then be able to avoid the expense of hauling the boat. If the in water survey indicates few or minor problems the cost of hauling is justified to finish the survey.

I see you are a fairly new member, are you new to boating? If so, may I respectfully suggest a lot of research before jumping into an old and relatively large, expensive to maintain, boat.
 
I currently own an 80s Searay, and once owned a 1978 Fiberform 28 flybridge, which was very similar to Bayliners and which Bayliner acquired prior to 1984 and began using their hull molds for some boats. The Searays had deeper V hulls giving better rides, control, and rough sea capability. The Bayliners were pretty flat bottom, and although potentially faster, were a harder ride and much looser in rough weather or wind. The Searays were probably thicker, heavier hulls. For either boat of that era, a survey should look closely for water damage to stringers, transom or other parts. You can check if wood was also used in the cockpit deck or seating.
 
Thank you for your responses. We are not new to boating, but are new to the size and style. We're going with the 84 sea Ray due to the condition, engine hours, and it's a fresh water boat that's stored under cover.
We will use your advise with our surveyor.
Thank you!
 
If you want economy a diesel bayliner will get great milage.
That being said here is the reason according to me : )

3288 is a very shallow hull originally designed as a troller with 90hp Nissan diesels
Because it is not pushing much water away it can get by with light hp engines.
Watch a 3288 or 3875 Bayliner at dock when a wave comes in back and forth the go (rounded Chines)
I would pick the searay hands down it might cost a little more in fuel but you will be happier when the bad weather comes.

JOhn
 
My wife (vanwke1)and I are happy to say we went with the Sea Ray.
Thank you very much for your input. We are happy about the boat we
picked out. Between you and our good friends the Sea Ray was the best fit. We will be going out to the San Juans and South East of Vancouver. Friends made it clear the Sea Ray will handle the rough waters better then the Bayliner and Carver. We hope to meet some of you soon in the Seattle area.

Thank you again.
 
Congrats on the new boat......and a great choice too.
 
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