boat 180

We've already established that Bayliner, now a part of Brunswick Marine, but started by Orin Edson in 1957, is probably the largest player on the marine scene today as its properties include not only Bayliner but also Boston Whaler and Mercury outboard, but it is also knows how to use a basic design and change it, as does the auto industry, so that you have a new unit.

Thi si s the case for the Bayliner 180 OB. Atlhough it's called an outboard, (OB) designation, it is essentially the same hull that you find in the 170 series with an overall length of 18-feet and a beam of 7-feet-6 with a moderate-Vee hull.

Since it's actually a bowrider -- a real bowrider from Bayliner has a stern drive, apparently or the craft they consider the "real" bowrider -- you really don't have to worry about having a cuddy-style cabin or the more standard cabin you would find in a cruiser. The 180 OB is about having fun. You can tell by its dry draft of 1-foot-four and full-draft of 2-feet-7. Yes, you still have to watch how close to show you bring it, but, at the same time, you can get pretty close in while towing a skiier, although it doesn't mount a wakeboard tower.

Still, you can have lots of fun in the 180 OB as it has a standard front bucket seats for the skipper and full controls at the control panel. You can access the small bow riding area to stretch out through the hinged center of the swept windscreen.

The 180 OB can be driven by Mercury outboard ranging from 90 to 125 horsepower, or more than enough for a great deay of sking.

And, while you can fish off this motorcraft, it's not primarily made for that particular pasttime as the front area is really more about stretching out and sunbathing and the cockpit is more about chatting and having fun. At about $17,000 list, this isn't the most expensive boat in the world so it won't cost you an arm and a leg to purchase.

One of the important options to think of obtaining is the flexible canopy to keep the sun off, if you are in a hot, sunny climate.