Choosing the right grady.

Fisher@1

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I am looking for a dual console Grady, considering used 325, or a newer 307, 285. Used in charlotte harbor as well as 20 miles into gulf for cruising and fishing. New to the Grady family and ocean boating. Also considering World Cat Dual console 280DC, 296DC or 325DC. Advise would be appreciated!
 
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I own a Freedom 275 and have looked at the line extensively. Here's how I differentiate them:

The 285 is the only one trailerable by mere mortals (and even it is a foot wider than 'legal').
The 307 feels like a different, larger class of boat from the 285. It's worth the upgrade if you don't plan to trailer the boat.
The 325 has a starboard berth, its head feels more like a real bathroom, its helm glass goes all the way to the hardtop (resulting in better sight lines but also a more enclosed feeling (for better or worse), and it is available with air conditioning.
 
Thank you for info. Do you know how they compare to a World Cat? And what are your thoughts on 300 or 350 Yamaha's?
 
I own a Freedom 275 and have looked at the line extensively. Here's how I differentiate them:

The 285 is the only one trailerable by mere mortals (and even it is a foot wider than 'legal').
The 307 feels like a different, larger class of boat from the 285. It's worth the upgrade if you don't plan to trailer the boat.
The 325 has a starboard berth, its head feels more like a real bathroom, its helm glass goes all the way to the hardtop (resulting in better sight lines but also a more enclosed feeling (for better or worse), and it is available with air conditioning.
Well Stated / Agree

I own a GW Freedom 235 today, which has been and is a GREAT Single Engine Boat

The GW Freedom 325, or similar (Pursuit DC326 or Southport 33DC) is my target next boat

Like and Want the added length and beam and 2nd engine for adventuring into the the Gulf some day traveling, and not being interested in much cabin space

Like / Want the windshield incorporated all the way up and into the Hard Top toward protection from the elements November 1 through April 1 - want to be done with either Eisen or Strato glass between the windshield and Hard Top
 
I have a 306 Canyon, which is the same hull as the 307. The boat is very stable at anchor and in the drift. It runs very well in most seas. Like most any other "small" boat, once the seas are past 3 - 4 at close periods, it's time to either slow way down or not leave the dock.

There is lots of room on the boat and pretty good amenities.

The fit, finish and quality is very good.

Where are you located?
 
I was going back and forth between the World Cat and the GW. Grady White won primarily because I found a great deal. The WC is a nice boat, but used prices are still pretty high for 280DC or 296/95DC (closer to $200K).

WC brags about deck space, but with the beam of the 307 I don't think it's much different. WC's are also supposed to be better in rough weather, but the GW is apparently a beast, and no bow sneeze. Both companies make nice boats.

I am hopefully closing on a used 307 Freedom within the next week or so. Used 285's are more expensive than the 307's. My guess is there is just more inventory of the 307's. The 307 is perfect for how I will actually use the boat. I'd love to be taking all these big adventures, but realistically I'll be doing a lot of sunsets, day trips with friends and family, and hopefully some fishing.
 
I have a 306 Canyon, which is the same hull as the 307. The boat is very stable at anchor and in the drift. It runs very well in most seas. Like most any other "small" boat, once the seas are past 3 - 4 at close periods, it's time to either slow way down or not leave the dock.

There is lots of room on the boat and pretty good amenities.

The fit, finish and quality is very good.

Where are you located?
Thx for the information. We will be driving in the Port Charlotte area.