1971 24 vs 1977 246

[dbrock]

Does anybody know the difference between these two hauls?  I know that one is 6 inches longer, but are they the same width?  Are they also the same vee? I think the 1971 24 is a modified V where the 1977 is deep vee? I am trying figure out which boat would handle rough waters better?  Thanks, Dan

[GoneFission]

The 1971 model would be a SeaHunter hull -  most likely a side console with a semi-V hull.  The 77 model 246 is a CCP hull with deep-V hull and might be a center console, family fisherman, express fisherman, or the rare center console cuddy model.  Which is best?  Depends on what you want to do with it...  

[dbrock]

Thanks for the info. I want something that can run inshore and offshore and I do not want to pound too much. I am also going to stick a tower on her and I fear that a deep v would be a little tippy.. Do you think the two boats will ride that much differently in a chop? Thanks

[Tx49]

the 240 was designed from the factory with a tower option. If you look in the photo gallery here there are magazine articles as well as product brochures on the 240 and there are some brochures on the 246. The 240 has a 14 degree deadrise at the transom and was designed for offshore trips, although I would think that you would want to watch the size seas you took her in. i only have these opinions based on reading here and THT, as i have not put one in the water myself, but i am confident enough of the hull to be starting a sportfisher build on one.

[gata119]

I have a 1971 240 and I absolutely love the boat.  I can fish both inshore and offshore.  With that said, if your main focus is offshore, I would go with the deeper V.  I have to plan my offshore days accordingly because the 240 will take a pounding in rough seas.  However, the 240 will fish a lot skinnier and I don't have to worry about channel markers quite as much.  So, to answer the original question, the 246 will handle rough waters better.

[GoneFission]

The draft on a 240 is listed at 10" while the 246CCP is 12"  -  I'm not sure you would really notice the 2" draft difference.  Of course, wet foam and extra weight below the decks can lower the boat 2" - see the waterline marks in John Dupree's post and you can see what I mean.  

To me the biggest differences are the gunwale heights, rough water ride, and styling differences.  Some folks don't like the CCP shape as well as the 240 - it's a manner of personal preference.     As some of you know, I take my CCP in some pretty skinny water...