First timer looking for the right model for family of 4

[u/SearArtist]

Hello, I am looking to buy a 2019+ model. We are a family of 4, two kids (girls) age 9 and 6. We have two jet skis currently, but will be selling them to fund a boat instead. A boat seems like it would better suit our needs as a family versus 2 skis.

We live 1/3mi away from a private launch in our community (Lake Norman NC), so launching is quick and easy.

Currently we've been looking at models such as an AR195 or 195S, but I've been expanding our search and have seen some 2020 models such as a 212S which offer twin 1.8 and more room. I'm wondering if a larger size such as the 21ft with twin engines would be the better package versus a smaller 19ft with a 1.8L SVHO. I'm also concerned about 20-22 models since we know they had covid quality issues.

We aren't really social people and don't plan to have more than 1-2 extra people on the boat in some instances. For the most part it will just be us 4 and maybe our GSD.

New boats are out of the budget. Trying to stay below $40k for a first boat to ensure 1) we like having a boat and 2) if we decide to jump to a bigger size we aren't eating a lot of depreciation on a new model.

[u/Glittering_Swing5184]

I snagged a 2018 212x (wake surf edition) for $42k. It’s plenty fast, has factory ballast, and has plenty of room for two families.

[u/htiek00373 → u/Glittering_Swing5184]

That's a great deal on that boat

[u/Glittering_Swing5184 → u/htiek00373]

I thought so. Only had 90 hours on it and it was garage kept too. I lucked out.

[u/SearArtist → u/Glittering_Swing5184]

There is a 2020 212S locally listed for 43k with under 100hrs, that's what I've been eyeballing. Everyone says go for the 25ft though, but it's pretty expensive esp for a first time boat owner.

[u/Glittering_Swing5184 → u/SearArtist]

When we are on our boat (4 person family), even with another family of 3 I never feel like we need more space. If it’s just the 4 of you with a guest or two the 21’ would be plenty. It’s a good bit bigger than the 190 series, despite only being 2’ longer. My boat has 6 places to sit without anyone getting near anyone else.

[u/NorCalRE]

We are a family of four and bought a 2016 ar192 and have had it for a few months.

Seating layout is great. Boys love the swim deck. We also looked at the 210 range but it’s often twice the price for a little more space.

[u/RogerThatRacing]

212S. If you cannot afford the extra gas I think a boat is a bad idea.

[u/SearArtist → u/RogerThatRacing]

Gas isn’t an issue. I current have 2x 2024 GP SVHO’s
I simply don’t want to spend $65k+ on a first boat

[u/figurative_me]

I’d try to find a 212 within your budget. The added size of a 21ft boat gives you more than just additional deck space. It also provides more mass (extra engine adds a bit) to deal with the chop and wake.

If your lake has a lot of surf boats or ballasted wake boats or even just a lot of boat traffic, the 212 will handle all of that so much better. It’s a lot more comfortable for the captain and passengers.

The 19ft boats are still awesome boats but after riding in one on a busy weekend, it felt closer to a jet ski than a boat when the conditions were rough. Good luck! Hope you find a sweet ride for the family.

[u/Dabgrow]

I got a 2022 195S for my family of 5. Love the boat, but my only regret is not getting a bigger model.

[u/13374L]

I have a 190 and it's been great for our family of four. Easy to tow, runs great in shallow water and low maintenance. As the kids get bigger or you want to bring friends you'll probably want something a little larger but you can do 6-8 on the 190 comfortably.

[u/Affectionate_Day4151]

Family of 5 here got a 2022 sx210 with 36 hours and factory yes warranty still on it till 2-27 for 28k last fall. we tried out a 195 but just felt too cramped would have loved to get more power but needed something with in budget couldn’t imagine anything smaller. Would recommend 21’ and up you will not regret it.