axapowell

The air and gen options in the 353 are new for 2005...so the years you are looking for will not be equipted. As far as cruising...We took our 1999 353 (HP500's w/mufflers) on a 600 mile cruise thru 55 locks this past summer with our friends and they took their 34' Searay Cruiser. We were very comfortable and really the only thing we missed was the coffee maker! We will have a 12v one for next years planned trip. Otherwise, the full enclosure (sorry Cuda), made it nice in the morning to get up to a dry interior and the bimni for some of the locks was welcomed.

We cruised at 28-35 mph in the open water and did alot of canals at just over idle with no problems.

Insurance wise, as Dukenrock said "Progressive". They were the least expensive and had the best coverage.

PM Me if you would like to talk on the phone some more about the 353.

Dave

dukenrock

If you're looking at the 35, don't be afraid to look at the 38 as well. As mentioned, you could easily find one with the air and genset, gain a little extra cabin space. You'll loose a little speed and performance and need the right vehicle to trail it with. (10,400 pounds dry)

FormulaM2Formula

Hi All,

Thanks for your help and advice!

I didn't know about the lack of a generator in the 353. I found a 2002 353 for sale w/ a generator, but I'll ahve to call them as it sounds like a mistake in the ad. They also said it had bowthrusters which it doesn't have.

I'm considering the 382 now as a result. I feel a little guilty about even considering the 382 since I started looking at the 29' Fastech and fairly quickly made it up to the 353. A generator and AC sure would be nice here in Arizona though. I'm also thinking about cruising the intercoastal waterway in 2007 and the AC sure would be a nice thing to have.

I googled the Volvo drives and it is hard to find info on them. I bet parts and props are hard to find relative to Mercruiser too. So thanks to you guys, I'll be looking for Mercruiser 500 EFI's.

I'm sure I'll be back with more questions. I'll be lurking around reading about your boats and adventures.

dukenrock

Roberts got that new '04 that had the fairing on it. 575's

anasazi

I own a 312 and a 353 and am also in Az. The 312 is for sale I would be more than happy to show you the boats and give you any help I can. Formula is a great choice.

FormulaM2Formula

Hi Anasazi,
I can use some help. I'm hoping to need some driving tips soon. I just moved out to Queen Creek from Chandler a couple years ago. What lakes to you spend most of your time?

I found a 382 that I like but it doesn't have a generator. Is the generator in the engine bay? How hard would it be to install one myself? Does anyone know if the wiring is already installed as part of the harness or would all the wiring have to be put in?

Thanks!
Garrett