[TimT]

I had a 13 foot Whaler powered by a 40hp Evinrude when I was in high school.

Like you mentioned Boston Whalers are basically pieces of foam that are shaped in to a hull and covered with fiberglass.... you cannot sink the boat..

You can however flip it over LOL... as done by me trying to go out of Jones Inlet when wiser more seasoned skippers in larger boats turned back..

The boat is fast... the ride is harsh..Reflecting a 13' Whaler is a good boat for a teenager with some sea going savvy... not so much to bring a wife and son out on.

There is no shelter (yes you can get a Bimini top) except for peeing over the side... no place to relive yourself..And really a 13 foot boat is crowded with three people on board..

Its cheap to operate, will go almost anywhere... I did take my boat offshore after the inversion incident..not a comfortable ride...

One thing about buying boats is that its always a buyer market...

I'd look for a small cuddy... something with some semblance of shelter