Boat Purchase
 

I am looking at a 96 Mariah Shabah Z 212 that has been out in the weather and in need of alot of TLC. The boat runs and the hull is in good shape. Interior is very rough. I think I can get the boat below 3,000. is this a decent purchase? This is a first time boat buyer.

Re: Boat Purchase
 

It would sound like a good deal to me. Is the interior pretty much a tear out? It will cost $$$ to get everything reupholstered and it won't be original Mariah. It depends how much extra you have to put into it. If the interior is rough I'm guessing electrical is a mess as well. Would be a good project though!

Re: Boat Purchase
 

The interior is a total tear out, carpet as well. the gauges need replacing and possible some wiring problems. Good part is that I am a mechanical person and have done car interiors in the past. Hull needs compounding but all in all it seems to be a sound hull. Has a 350 chevy with mercruiser bottom end. It has a blue hull which from what I read is a limited edition. Just want to get into a boat with low cost and dont mind putting the work into it. Good project for me and my 2 boys.

Re: Boat Purchase
 

You will easily pay up to twice your purchase price to get the interior back in good shape if you use the same materials and try to get it back to OEM condition.

For a first time boat buyer, spend the $$ and get one that's in good shape and doesn't require work. Boating is meant to be enjoyed, not a job. Don't start off your boating life by buying a POS that requires you to spend more time fixing it than enjoying it. Especially if you've got a wife or significant other, they'll appreciate it much more too. The 212 is one of the most popular Mariah models, so there's tons out there, just be patient and find one that fits you and your budget the best (and doesn't require significant amounts of work). Trust me, you'll be much happier in the long run.

Re: Boat Purchase
 

Thanks for the input. I am still looking and have been impressed with the Mariah. Not sold on this deal yet and would rather have a first time runner than a project.

Re: Boat Purchase
 

I would agree with Shabah on this one for a first time boat, and with a family a long project isn't the way to start. I got more of a project then I panned even without looking for to much work. It's almost off season depending where you live the deals will only get better but I love my Mariah even if I didn't get as many hours on it as I would have liked this year.

Re: Boat Purchase
 

I agree with Chris as well. You'd easily wrap up at least $6K in that boat even doing the work yourself. 6K will buy a great first boat, maybe even a Mariah. Just go find one and get on the water.

Re: Boat Purchase
 

What he said! I would only consider it if i had a nice warm place to work on it all winter long and had the ability to do my own upholstery work. The boat may run well but i suspect that if the interior is in the condition you say, the engine was likely neglected also.