Grady 330 Express vs 300 Marlin

[cmware]

A lot depends on what years of boats your looking at. Both models have had long runs with many changes during those production runs. Earlier model 330's did have moisture problems on the sides and earlier models of both had wooden transoms which could be a problem. I currently have a 305 but looked at many 300's and 330's when I was shopping for my boat. I would have gone the 330 route, but it would have been too long for my dock. When these models are compared the walkaround is always brought up as a factor. Personally I think the walkaround is a bit overrated. I can get to the bow easily on my 305 and the 330 has even more room on the sides. I have never needed someone on the bow for docking as we back into slips or parallel in. If your casting from the bow I have a big flat surface to stand on. With express helm configuration you can get more crew members comfortably under the hard top and out of the elements vs. the walkaround(marlin) layout.

Hey there. Currently have a 265 Express and looking at a 300 Marlin or 305 Express. Have a 2 year old now and married so looking for the aft cab and cabin space. Fish regularely and then day trips and destination trips. What's your take on the 305?

 

[drbatts]

This is season 10 for my 305. I had upgraded from a 265. the 305 pretty much does everything better then the 265 expect for fuel efficiency and tank size. Where you have to slow down with the 265, you don't have to with the 305. I use the boat as a primary fishing boat but it also kind of gets treated like a beach house during the summer. We also take it on a few weekend trips during the summer. Its fine for 2 people to stay on for a few days. My wife and I sleep in the main bunk and use the aft cabin for storage, but I think it would be fine for a small child. On fishing trips someone usually sleeps in each bunk. The main problem we have is storage space, the cabin will fill up pretty fast. Let me know if you have specific questions or PM me with them.