Hey guys! So you're thinking about buying your first boat, and the 2023 Hurricane SS 185 OB has caught your eye, especially with that $45k Canadian price tag. You've got a family of four, and watersports are definitely on the agenda, and you're boating around the Windsor/Detroit area. That's awesome! Buying a boat is super exciting, but it's also a big decision, so let's break down whether this particular boat is the right fit for you and your family’s needs.
Understanding Your Boating Needs: Family Size, Activities, and Location
Before we dive into the specifics of the Hurricane SS 185 OB, let's think about the important factors that will influence your boat choice. First up, that family of four is key! You need enough seating and space for everyone to be comfortable, especially on longer trips. Think about how much room you'll need for gear too – things like life jackets, towels, snacks, and watersports equipment add up quickly. You'll want to avoid feeling cramped and crowded on your new boat. Next, watersports! This opens another can of worms, or should we say, a wake of possibilities? Are we talking leisurely tubing, more intense wakeboarding or water skiing, or maybe even some adventurous wakesurfing? Each of these activities requires a different level of power and wake-shaping capabilities from the boat. Finally, the Windsor/Detroit area. This beautiful region offers plenty of boating opportunities, from the Detroit River to Lake St. Clair and even the Great Lakes. However, it's important to consider the typical water conditions you'll encounter. Are we usually talking calm, sheltered waters, or are you likely to be dealing with some chop and potentially larger waves? This will significantly impact the size and type of boat you need for a safe and enjoyable experience. So, keep these factors in mind as we explore the Hurricane SS 185 OB – family size, watersports ambitions, and your local boating environment are the cornerstones of your decision.
The 2023 Hurricane SS 185 OB: A Closer Look
Okay, let's get down to brass tacks and check out the 2023 Hurricane SS 185 OB. This boat falls into the category of a deck boat, which is a popular choice for families due to its spacious layout and versatility. At 18 feet 5 inches in length, it's a relatively compact boat, which can be a plus for maneuverability and ease of trailering and storage. Hurricane is known for building quality boats, and the SS 185 OB is generally considered a well-made vessel. The “OB” in the name signifies that it's an outboard-powered boat, meaning the engine is mounted on the transom (the back of the boat). Outboard engines are generally easier and less expensive to maintain than inboard engines, which is a definite plus for first-time boat owners. The 2023 model likely comes with a range of engine options, typically ranging from 115 to 150 horsepower. The engine size will play a crucial role in its performance, especially when it comes to watersports. In terms of layout, deck boats like the SS 185 OB typically have a wide beam (width), which translates to a more open and spacious feel inside. You'll usually find comfortable seating in the bow (front) and stern (back), as well as a helm (driver's) seat and passenger seat. Many deck boats also include features like a swim platform with a ladder, which is essential for watersports and general enjoyment on the water. So, on paper, the Hurricane SS 185 OB seems like a promising option, but let's dig a bit deeper and see if it truly ticks all your boxes.
Is the 2023 Hurricane SS 185 OB Big Enough for a Family of 4 and Watersports?
This is the million-dollar question, isn't it? Can the Hurricane SS 185 OB comfortably accommodate your family of four and handle your watersports aspirations? The answer, like with most things in boating, is… it depends! Let's start with space. The SS 185 OB typically has a capacity rating of around 8-9 people, which sounds great on paper. However, capacity ratings can be a little misleading. While you might technically be able to squeeze that many people on board, comfort is a different story. For a family of four, the SS 185 OB will likely feel reasonably spacious for cruising and general boating activities. There should be enough seating for everyone to relax, and the open deck layout will allow you to move around freely. However, things get a little tighter when you start adding watersports gear, coolers, and other essentials. Storage space on a boat of this size can be limited, so you'll need to be strategic about what you bring along. Now, let's talk watersports. This is where engine horsepower becomes a major factor. A smaller engine, like a 115 horsepower, might struggle to pull a heavier person up on skis or a wakeboard, especially with a full boat of people. If you're serious about watersports, you'll definitely want to consider the higher end of the engine options, like a 150 horsepower. Even then, the SS 185 OB might not be ideal for advanced watersports like wakesurfing, which requires a larger boat with specific wake-shaping features. For tubing and recreational waterskiing, it could be a good fit, but for more serious watersports enthusiasts, you might find it lacking. So, ultimately, the size question comes down to your priorities and how you plan to use the boat. If you prioritize spaciousness and comfort for cruising, the SS 185 OB could work. But if watersports are your main focus, and you're looking for high performance, you might need to consider a slightly larger boat.
Boating in the Windsor/Detroit Area: Considerations for Boat Size
Now, let’s think about the specific boating conditions in the Windsor/Detroit area. As mentioned earlier, this region offers a variety of boating environments, from the calm waters of the Detroit River to the potentially choppier waters of Lake St. Clair and the Great Lakes. The size of your boat will significantly impact its handling and stability in different water conditions. A smaller boat like the Hurricane SS 185 OB will be more susceptible to the effects of waves and wind. In calm conditions, this isn't a major issue, and the boat will be perfectly manageable. However, if you venture out into choppier waters, you'll feel the bumps more, and the ride might become less comfortable, especially for passengers. A larger boat, with its greater length and weight, will generally provide a smoother and more stable ride in rougher conditions. It will also be better equipped to handle larger waves and strong winds. This doesn't necessarily mean that the SS 185 OB is a bad choice for the Windsor/Detroit area, but it's something to keep in mind. If you plan to primarily boat in sheltered areas like the Detroit River, it should be perfectly adequate. However, if you're dreaming of exploring the Great Lakes, you might want to consider a larger boat that can handle the potentially challenging conditions. Always check the marine forecast before heading out, and be prepared to adjust your plans if the weather turns unfavorable. Boating safety should always be your top priority.
The $45k Canadian Price Tag: Is the 2023 Hurricane SS 185 OB a Good Value?
Okay, let's talk money! $45,000 Canadian is a significant investment, so you want to make sure you're getting good bang for your buck. The price of a new boat can vary greatly depending on factors like size, features, engine, and brand. Generally speaking, $45k for a 2023 Hurricane SS 185 OB sounds like a reasonable price, but it's essential to do your homework and compare it to other similar boats in the market. Start by researching the MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price) for the SS 185 OB with the engine and options you're interested in. This will give you a baseline for comparison. Then, check out online boat marketplaces and local dealerships to see what other boats in the same size and class are selling for. Consider factors like the boat's condition, hours on the engine, and included features. A lightly used boat might offer a better value than a brand new one, especially if it comes with extras like a trailer or upgraded electronics. Don't be afraid to negotiate the price with the dealer. Boat prices are often negotiable, especially during the off-season. It's also worth considering the long-term costs of boat ownership. In addition to the purchase price, you'll need to factor in expenses like insurance, registration, maintenance, fuel, and storage. These costs can add up quickly, so it's important to budget accordingly. Ultimately, whether the 2023 Hurricane SS 185 OB is a good value depends on your individual needs and budget. If it meets your requirements for size, performance, and features, and the price is competitive, it could be a great option. But be sure to do your research and compare it to other boats before making a final decision.
Alternative Boat Options to Consider
Before you make a final decision on the Hurricane SS 185 OB, it's always a good idea to explore other options. There are many great boats out there, and you might find one that's an even better fit for your family and your boating style. If you're concerned about space for watersports, consider looking at slightly larger deck boats or even bowriders in the 20-22 foot range. These boats will offer more room for passengers and gear, as well as potentially better performance for watersports. Brands like Bayliner, Chaparral, and Sea Ray are popular choices in this category. Another option is to consider a dedicated watersports boat, such as a wakeboard boat or wakesurf boat. These boats are designed specifically for creating large wakes and providing optimal performance for watersports. However, they often come with a higher price tag and might not be as versatile for general boating activities. If you're planning on boating primarily in calm waters, a pontoon boat could also be a good option. Pontoon boats are known for their spaciousness and stability, making them ideal for cruising and entertaining. They're also generally more affordable than deck boats or bowriders. Don't forget to consider the used boat market as well. You can often find excellent deals on used boats that are in great condition. A reputable boat broker can help you find a suitable used boat and guide you through the buying process. Take your time, do your research, and don't be afraid to ask questions. The more information you have, the better equipped you'll be to make the right decision for your family.
Final Verdict: Is the Hurricane SS 185 OB Right for You?
So, let's circle back to our original question: Is the 2023 Hurricane SS 185 OB the right boat for your family of four in the Windsor/Detroit area? The answer, as we've explored, is nuanced. It really depends on your priorities and how you plan to use the boat. If you're looking for a versatile and spacious boat for cruising and light watersports in calm waters, the SS 185 OB could be a good fit, especially if the price is right. However, if you're serious about watersports, particularly wakeboarding or wakesurfing, or you plan to boat frequently in choppier conditions, you might want to consider a larger or more specialized boat. Remember, boating is all about having fun and making memories with your family. Choose a boat that fits your needs and budget, and most importantly, enjoy your time on the water! Before you make a final decision, I highly recommend taking a sea trial of the SS 185 OB and any other boats you're considering. This will give you a firsthand feel for how the boat handles and performs, and it will help you determine if it's the right fit for you and your family. Happy boating, guys!