21 Classic versus 21EC

[harry ames]

Soon gotta pull the trigger on an eary 2000's 21EC with 30hp or on a late 90's classic 21 for 10 grand less. On balance, is the EC worth the extra 10 grand? Both boats look to be well cared for and both are low time on engines. Less than 200 hours. Of course, the Classic has only the 18hp engine. Both equipped about the same. The EC has had the extra axle added to the trailer.

Is the bow thruster a nice gadget or is it necessary?

What is the real difference in cruise speed? And in practical terms will the 18 push against a 20 mph headwind?

I understand the cabin comfort issues for cruising, but we will be day cruising with two people, and occasionally over nighting, but not more than one night or two per trip.

I won't be off shore but on lakes and sheltered bays.

Retired, so my boating happens when where and how long I choose.

10 grand buys a lot of trips and fuel, but if all classic owners wish they had an EC, well, I can't ignore that.

 

[Pilotnavigator]

What we enjoy and find as a necessity is the larger swim platform on the newer 21ec's, not sure want year the platform was enlarged but if you want to add a BBQ on the swim rail it is real handy. also we do a lot of slow maneuvering in tight channels and found the bow thruster is needed. The boat really looses steerage below 2.5 knots and we then steer with the thruster. We have been in some rather narrow passages that twist and turn.
Is it worth the extra money? Not sure, we can get up to speed and cruise at 6 knots at 2000 rpm with the 30hp. So the 18 will likely work fine. But we also charge several batteries with the 120 amp alternator so the extra hp is used there.
If you are only day sailing on lakes then the older boat would serve you well. Added extras like cockpit covers add to the comfort of a sail.

 

[Gregg]

Hi Harry,
We can't speak to the classic 21, having not ever experienced one, but with regard to some of your other questions, we have a few thoughts.
Bow thruster - its used seldom in our puttering, but when it's needed its very welcome. The wind can make a mess of docking. The thruster solves that.

The cabin is not large on the 21ec. There have been occasions (a few) when more space would have been welcome.

Cruise speed of 6.5 knots 95% of the time. No really application to test the full 30hp.

Gregg