I'm new to the Whalers. I bought a 1968 17' Mantauk with an 85 Yamaha. The reverse didn't work so I just traded the engine up for a 1997 Yamaha 85 HP totally rebuilt.

Great boat. I use it for Sarasota FL waters at 2' to 3' seas. Trailer to rivers where only drafts 9". Easy to jump in and out of it for the whole family.

To test the engine and the boat I took it to Big Pass (the main pass between Siesta Key and Lido Key). We'll I took it to face Hurricane Katrina. I was very responsible. Wore a life jacket, and of course didn't go alone, I took my dog Motita (spanish for spotted). I took it slow and steady on breaking waves 5' to 6' high. It was not scary and not bumpy if going slow. Trying to go a bit faster would prove otherwise.

Rides 5' to 6' waves very safe both ahead and astern. Again, the trick is to work the HP to a safe riding speed and carefully making any turns. Most recomend facing waves at 45% and that is fine with a V hull, however, the Whaler did much better facing them more direct, say around 60%. Not a science but just working things out.

Overall, great boat for its category. Great to trailer around to learn new places from lakes and rivers to bay and offshore. Just plenty of fun for around $6k after all repairs and the totally rebuilt engine with warranty.

Recommended: Yes

Amount Paid (US$): 6000
Brand of Motor: Yamaha
Primary Location of Use: Moving rivers
Primary Type of Use: All-around recreation