[petemcrunnel]

Hello all... Nice forum you've got here... I'm looking at a 1996 Shabah 200 for $6000 USD. Appears to be a pretty good deal. ~50 hours total on it, owner kept it in nice shape.

My question: I've had 3 -4 boats but I am unfamiliar with Mariah. They look classy, but are they reliable? How expensive is maintenance/new parts/etc? And also, it seems Mariah changed ownership in 2000-2001... What's the story behind that?

Thanks in advance.

Pete

[mikeyt]

The "story" behind the closure of the original Mariah & subsequent purchase of the Mariah name by Sea Fox has been discussed here many times. If you click on the "FAQ's" link above you can read all about it.

A 15 yr old boat with only 50 hrs on it is a very rare find and $6k sounds like a reasonable price. Original Mariah's are generally very reliable if well maintained & regular maintenance is no different than any other brand of boat. Some parts (windshields, interior trim pieces, original bucket seats immediately come to mind) are difficult if not impossible to find but there is always a work around solution developed by someone here. The mechanicals are usually either Mercruiser or Volvo so they generally are relatively simple to find parts for or repair. The electricals were well designed with all wiring labled. We have full wiring diagrams and manuals available here on our site for contributing members.

[petemcrunnel]

Thanks, MikeyT... I appreciate your reply. I'm headed out to get it this Saturday.. Sorry I didn't check the FAQs on ownership.

[scubydo]

I bought my 96 Shabah last fall for 8900 with matching trailer. It is a brand new 96. New carpet, new upolstrey, new cockpit & bow covers, new bimini top, new travel cover, new engine, and rebuilt outdrive. It is seriously a brand new 1996. I upgraded from a 95 maxum, and can't belive the difference. I felt like I was steeling it. The previous owner had redone everything, but then lost his job, and was forced to sell it, I felt really bad, but he mentioned he had come accross many good deals in his day, and it was just my turn. What a boat, I can't belive how great it rides, and how quiet the ride is. You will love the 200 Shabah. Best of all it was only made in 96, so there's not to many around.

[petemcrunnel]

Thanks scubydo... My family and I are really excited about getting it. Its hull is so deep compared to the other boats I've had, so I'm sure it will cut through the lake water better.

By the way, I forgot to mention: This one has no trailer, which is definitely reflected in the price.

[rebelyelljr]

I just picked up my 96' Shabah. Got it from a friend who kept it in perfect condition for 7500 with matching trailer. I think he just wanted to pay off what he owed on it.

I'm itching to get it out on the water...still pretty cold up here in PA