25' AS Express Fisherman - to buy or not to buy?

[Anonymous]

Hello all,

Today I went to my friend's marina boat shopping. Right next to his slip there is a 1987 25' AS Express Fisherman - 225 Evinrude, clean, and loaded. Brand new enclosure for the hard t-top. The marina mechanic told me she was just recently bottom painted, and had an overhaul - something to do with the motor electronics. They said it is pretty much 'turnkey', but I want to know if its 8 foot beam is a little short? How do these handle in rough conditions (not anything ridiculous - it will not see the Chesapeake Bay too much)? Is there anything in particular I should look out for with this model?

Any suggestions would be appreciated!!

[Argo]

I have a 25' CCP and it handles rough water great.  the wider the beam the less fun it is unless you have really steep dead rise.  Mine handles gulf chop well but it rides wet, not sure about the model you are getting as far as wetness if it has a little cabin.  I think my beam is 8.5' though.

[Anonymous]

The boat in question has the same degree of deadrise as yours - do you have any protection from the spray?

What I am most concerned with about these boats is anything I should specifically look out for with this particular model - stress due to design, gas tank problems, delamination - that sort of thing. It is not going to be easy to see all of the boat because it is currently in the water.

[Anonymous]

Oh well, thanks for your advice anyway. I have signed a letter of Intent to purchase an '87 26' Proline 25 walkaround - it is in better shape, and has only 250 hours on it... $4500. All it needs is a good cleanout. The AS was $12,000 - twice its book value.

See y'all out there!