time to upgrade?

[niko]

i would like a pilot house but would miss the wind in my hair. i just want something seaworthy so i can go and not have to pull the plug every time the wind picks up a little. will someone explain how deadrise effects stability for me. i've been on some boats that rock considerably more than others.

[BigBo]

Did you just say you'd miss the wind in your hair?
The 23' Grady is not really trailerable with a 9' 3" beam. For that reason I went with a 22' Grady when I had mine. The Grady is nice, but for the money, I'd look elsewhere. Look at Sea Hunt, Jones Bros., Scout.
A wide beam doesn't always mean stable. A lot of deadrise will give a good ride (usually) but will sometimes feel like sitting on a log when on a drift or anchoring. Too shallow deadrise can sometimes give a rough ride. Nothing is set in stone with boats though because everything comes into effect on something else. Everything is a tradeoff. You want one feature but may have to give up something else to get it. You need to think long and hard about what you really want the boat to do, set a price range, and get as many opinions and test rides as possible.

[Motor Fish]

I'm a few years behind you... but already discussing with the admiral.

My wife wants a 23-25' walk around, an enclosed head, someplace where my girls can sleep and we can occasionally go for an overnighter. Not bad...

But, the way I see it, if it's rough/rainy/cold - the family isn't going with you anyway. I say another CC with a porti-potty in the console. Still can do the day trips and cruising.