Question

What is the smallest boat you will take into the ocean?

Answer 1

Depends on the day, waves, wind,etc all factor into what you can safely take out in the ocean. I have been out in a 14 foot Boston Whaler in NJ on calm summer days, but would not think of going out on others. We used to run Barnegat Inlet in a 17 foot Thompson when I was a kid, but again, on calmer days. Also depends on the inlet..some you can't go out in a small boat no matter what and others are pretty well protected and you can go out most days.

Answer 2

You could get away with a kayak on the ocean. but obviously it has its limitations. I guess it would depend on what you want to do on the boat. I've scene people with small jon boats on the ocean, but they mostly stick to the inshore areas. i commonly see T tops that are probably around the 18-20ft range.

Answer 3

When we lived in California we almost every weekend took our 12 foot zodiac out into Monterey bay. We loved that boat. But we did sell it and brought a sixteen footer. Diving from a zodiac is great it's easy to get in and out of and I miss it.

Answer 4

First, my assumption is overnighting on the boat is involved.

Sail - 30ft

Power - depends on configuration and distance; I've seen some 25' sportfish rigs that are plenty comfortable.

Having owned boats up to 60', I look to downsize and am trying to stay around 30'.