u/Educational_Sir8555

gentlemen/women....long time lurker, first time posting.

I’m 24 and about to pull the trigger on my first boat up in Northern California. For anyone local, I’m locking in a 40’ slip at Westpoint Harbor. Grew up running around on my grandfather’s 40-footer and have rented smaller powerboats in places like Bermuda, so not brand new....but definitely stepping up here.

Couple things to factor in:

• I’m 6’5” so I already know most cabins are gonna be a “duck or crawl” situation
• Will be accompanied boating with my lovely girlfriend + brother
• Just booked a pretty serious refresher: 20 hours of private, on-the-water instruction (mainly docking and handling, as well as navigation, etc.). This is being done a 30' enclosed cabin boat, on the bay.
• Want something that can comfortably handle the Bay and ideally some light coastal cruising (nothing crazy, but up/down the coast would be sick)

What I’m looking at:

• 29–32’ cruisers
• Must be twin engine (not even considering singles)
• Stuff like Chaparral Signature 290, Sea Ray Sundancer 290 to 320 range, etc.
• Big appeal is being able to do overnights/weekend trips

Main question: am I gonna regret going in that 29–32’ range for what I want to do? Too small? Just right? Should I suck it up and go bigger? Please help.

Note - Will be doing some solo trips, so need a size I will be able to dock alone if needed.

Would appreciate any real-world advice here