I have a 1998 Alumaweld 17' center console with a 115 Mariner. I too went through all the steps you are doing now. If I had to do it agian, I would go with a 18-20 foot open boat with a tiller. I converted my boat to a tiller, and love it. It gives you alot more room. As far as Alumaweld, I will never own another one. There was a "no call recall" on the transom. I heard about transom failures, and had to call Alumaweld to get my upgrade. I thought it was sad, they did not notify all boat owners. We have a 16' Alumaweld super V at work, and it is a bigger piece of **** than my boat. It is too heavy, and barely gets out of the hole with two people. This boat also has a 115 hp outboard. It also had a hole in the slotted extrution when we got it. AND, it has stress cracked where the side tray, and skin are welded together. My buddy has a 17' North River open boat with 35 hp honda for duck hunting. This boat is so heavy that once the tide goes out, two guys have no chance moving it. If I was to buy a new jetboat, I would get a 20' Wille predator, open, with 150 hp mercury tiller. One of my guide buddies has a willie with Yamaha V max. He has had two different boats, and motors. Both Yamahas have blown up, at least once. Just passing on my experiences.