On the fence, Cold Feet, Second guessing myself...

[Locke N Load]

I have a 1971 Seafari 20 sitting in my backyard. I have had it for over two years now. It is stripped down to the stringers. It is ready to be built back up. I have Coosa for the transom. I have a new gas tank. I have researched what glass and resin to use. I am ready to make purchases and go.

But I cannot bring myself to get started. I am second guessing myself on whether it makes sense to restore the 20 footer. I am worried I will put all this time and effort in only to not like the 20 and wish I had a 23.

My anticipated use is a mix of fishing and family fun. I would have myself and maybe 2-3 others when fishing. It would be what you expect for eastern Massachusetts fishing. CCB, Buzzards Bay, Vineyard Sound and maybe even south of the islands when possible. Stripers, cod/haddock/pollack, black sea bass/tog/scup, nearshore tuna. What I really would like to be able to do as well is south of the islands for mahi and even further when weather allows for tuna/wahoo and whatever else I could come across, but that would not be a main application. Family time would be sand bars, cruises, Boston harbor islands, Provincetown and the islands for day trips. Three person family, but I would anticipate the 12 year old daughter will want a friend or two to hang with all the time. Boat would be trailered behind my 1/2 ton pickup.

So, my questions. I figure the Seafari could do most of that. Not south of the Vineyard, but the rest for fishing and family day trips would be fine. But, it would be crowded with more than 3-4 people onboard. Would a 23 do it much more easily, comfortably and safely? CC with wings for protection from the elements or stick with a Sceptre? Do I scrap the idea of the 20 and try to find a 23? I would still want a project hull to be able to go through myself and customize. Do I just have cold feet about the 20 and should I proceed or do I really want and need a 23 for my anticipated use? My first boat, but I have plenty of time on the water on a friend's 24 CC. Lots of fishing as described above including south of the Vineyard a couple of times as well as sandbar trips with up to 8 people onboard for the short ride.

Thanks all.