I want a C-Dory, but am confused. Please Help

clayton713

I am interested in buying a C-dory for weekend island trips, paddy hopping, and cruising in southern california and baja. I looked at the website and the base prices for the 2007 models are significantly lower than what a lot of the used boats are selling for. What am I missing? Is there a huge prep fee? Are engines not included? Did they just get really cheap this year?

According to the web page, base for a 19'angler is around 22K and the 22' is around 32K, but it seems like used versions are selling for about 10K more in both cases. Whats the deal?

Sea Wolf · Posted: Wed Mar 28, 2007 3:27 am Post subject:

clayton713-

Since I'm apparently the only one up at this hour, I'll try to answer your question.

You're right about the base price on the boats. $32k for the 22.

But then add in the options listed by the factory on the web page that you want. $2-4k.

Then add a main motor at $8-10K or twins for $10-12k. A small kicker motor = $2-3k for fishing if you have the big single.

A trailer will cost $3.5-4.5k.

Electronics will run anywhere from $2-$7k or more.

Sales tax and dealer prep = $4-5k

This totals about $55-65k, depending on your choices.

Then you have to pay registration fees to your state for the boat and licence fees for the trailer, etc.....

Did we mention that the price of gas was going through ............

Hope this helps, (Kinda depressing, though, huh?)

Joe. (I thought I wuz rich! .... But then I bought a boat and moved to the poorhouse!)

Fairbro · Posted: Wed Mar 28, 2007 9:26 am Post subject:

I had the same thoughts years ago when I first was bitten and smitten. The Wolf Man is right about the add-ons and he didn't even remember the $2-$3K for the canvas camper/cockpit cover. Save out few bucks for a slip and storage if you need them. Don't be like me and wait until the price doubles. Oh, and if you are still confused at least become a member here, you'll fit right in.

drjohn71a · Posted: Wed Mar 28, 2007 10:45 am Post subject:

Clayton,

The factory site mainly lists what a dealer would have to pay for a bare bones hull. The engines, engine preps, wiring, electronics, trailer, shipping, state taxes and registration and insurance and so on pile up really fast.

There's no question but what a used C-Dory is less expensive. It just depends if you'd rather custom build from scratch or accept someone else's custom build. Most modifications on the used C-Dorys are A-one quality.

John

mikeporterinmd · Posted: Wed Mar 28, 2007 10:50 am Post subject:

Sometimes, you can find a used, barebones C-Dory and modify it
how you want. That's basically what we did. Not necessarily by choice,
but that's how it worked out. It's been really fun to work on, but
if you do not have any experience working on boats, plan to read alot,
work with a friend and/or ask lots of questions here. Actually, no
matter what, ask lots of questions here!

Mike

Sarge · Posted: Wed Mar 28, 2007 4:40 pm Post subject:

Clayton713,

Trust me...I just bought my boat and the price doubled after all the 'stuff' I wanted was installed! Cry

I might be an extreme case because I've got some screws loose and talked myself into getting a bunch of stuff I may never fully use, but it adds up quickly!!

Sad part is that I don't have a trailer ($6k) or a kicker Cry

-Sarge

drjohn71a · Posted: Wed Mar 28, 2007 5:31 pm Post subject:

Here's advice from someone who already took the big dive:

Figure out which model will most likely fill your needs for a long long time. The 25 and the TomCat and the Tug 25 all have enclosed heads which the ladies and visitors and kids like. (you like it cause the kids don't have to go near where you sleep.)

Get at least the basic electronics you want/need on the original loan, including installation, if you're not installing it yourself.

Include the cost of bottom paint, delivery, taxes, and the first year's mooring/storage charges.

Put enough money down so you are not "upside down", e.g. , owe more than you could sell it for in a pinch.

Get a 10-15 year loan and have your tax guy deduct the interest on a 2nd home.

If you're tight, handy, and have the time to work on it, buy a stripped
down model and have a ball fixing it up.

Figure your budget, what you can comfortably handle, and pick the final model and year (new or used) that fits your situation.

Then Go For It!!!! You won't regret it if you're not owing more than the value and if the monthly payment allows you comfortable living.

ps, There's nothing wrong with a CD 16, 19, or of course the venerable economy, ease of use champ, the CD-22. Also, the R21 tug is a lovable, albeit slower, craft that you will probably never wear out, and will save thousands in gas $ and repair bills using.

John

SEA3PO · Posted: Wed Mar 28, 2007 5:46 pm Post subject:

Hey Clayton.... We have a new C-Dory dealer here in Ventura County....You could be his first sale of a boat.....I think I heard that his first shipment of boats is on the way.... he will be eager to make sure his customers are happy and will probably pay special attention to how the boats are rigged... I think I heard that they all are going to have Honda motors....
Good Luck....
SEA3PO

CatyMae n Steve · Posted: Wed Mar 28, 2007 7:20 pm Post subject:

I think Honda is still offering the low interest loan (for the whole boat package) if you use Honda motors on a new boat.