Quote Originally Posted by GotHalos View Post
Well shit, I guess I am out of luck. This is around what I was hoping to spend (part of the reason, I'm asking these questions). I'd rather learn before I go and buy a money pit (Yes, I know all boats are money pits). After all that is why I am asking for opinions, you guys have been there before, I haven't. I came across this for $5,000 :http://orangecounty.craigslist.org/boa/4073407655.html

Maybe a dumb question but is something like that not even worth buying or? I appreciate everyone's input so far, like I said I'd rather keep saving and buy something I can keep for a long time, as I intend to do.

At this point I'm not looking to go 100 mph or even be the best looking boat on the water. I don't mind working on something, as I know I will have to, regardless of how much I spend. Just looking to get out on the water and possibly explore new waterways. What it's all about right?

I'm also not in a hurry to buy, so I don't have a problem with waiting for the 'right' deal.
Don't get discouraged. 5k can get you a boat that will enable you to have a lot of fun in and you will be able to work on it as needed. That boat you posted a link to looks like a nice old ski boat. It would be smart to take someone who is familiar with older v drives with you when you check one out.