Like the other reviewers, I immensely enjoy this boat. I bought it in 2003, when this version of 18 feeter just came out, mostly due to great reviews in boating magazines. It was advertised as the unbelievable new boat for $ 9,999 (It is actually slightly more if you include the dealer prep fee). At that time it was considered as too good to be true. But it is. It is a great boat for this little money and great choice for a new boater. The secret is that the boat is made in Mexico, so the quality may not be top notch, but is acceptable.

I used it with great success for river and lake boating, skiing (even though I'm a big adult, 200 lbs), tubing, and floating recreation center. I fished some too. I even ventured into the gulf of Mexico on quiet of semi-quiet days, but you have to be very careful with bigger waves, as low laying hull can easily take some water in (I've done it once and it was scary).

The 4-banger (4-cycle) gives adequate power (someone saying too little power would lie) for skiing, tubing and other good things but it is not a racing boat of course. Sips gas compared to 2-cycle but not as economic as diesel of course. BTW, the 3.0 Liter engine is the only option available on 175.

Now, the negative. The finish and details are not as high quality as I would like, but adequate for the price.
I don't like the carpeting and would prefer a fiberglass floor. However, the carpet appears to be mold resistant.
The engine has some drawbacks too. It is an old design, heavy, and carbureted. I would prefer a newer, lighter, and EFI engine. The problems I encountered with this powerplant are not major, but a little bit annoying: dieseling, fouling plugs, hard to start after longer storage.

If I had to do it again, I would buy the same boat, maybe spending more time on the test drive and insisting on fixing some small things on the spot by the dealer.

BTW, I invested on brakes on the trailer for towing safety.


Recommended: Yes

Amount Paid (US$): 12000
Brand of Motor: Mercruiser
Primary Location of Use: Inshore waters and bays
Primary Type of Use: All-around recreation