Thataway from P'cola has given some really sage advice on similar subjects. Bascally, every boat is a compromise, no matter what you get. You give or get mobility, you get economy or give it up, you have nicer appointments or not and on and on. We have a C Dory 22 and for the most part we enjoy it. What I would say to you is to honestly evaluate how you will use the boat MOST of the time. For short periods of time you can just about make any boat accomodate anything, within reason.
If cost doesn't matter and you need trailerability and you want nicer accomodations then buy a Ranger 25. If cost does matter but you want trailerability and decent accomodations then buy a C Dory 25. If speed and trailerability don't matter but cruising confort does then buy an older Grand Banks 32. The gains and trade offs of all the boats available are to numerous to list but the key to deciding on the right boat is an honest evaluation of how you will use the boat for the majority of the time.
Personally, I don't think long term cruising on a boat of less than 25ft is a good idea for most people, primarily because of the lack of a real head and storage room, although a lot of people do it.
Anyway, good luck. Figuring out what you want is half the fun.
Bryant
If cost doesn't matter and you need trailerability and you want nicer accomodations then buy a Ranger 25. If cost does matter but you want trailerability and decent accomodations then buy a C Dory 25. If speed and trailerability don't matter but cruising confort does then buy an older Grand Banks 32. The gains and trade offs of all the boats available are to numerous to list but the key to deciding on the right boat is an honest evaluation of how you will use the boat for the majority of the time.
Personally, I don't think long term cruising on a boat of less than 25ft is a good idea for most people, primarily because of the lack of a real head and storage room, although a lot of people do it.
Anyway, good luck. Figuring out what you want is half the fun.
Bryant