Boat upgrade suggestions

FBolwell

Hey guys.
I hoped this wouldn't happen, but I got the taste.
I live in NE FLorida, Jacksonville. I have a Cape horn 19.5 with a single Yamaha 150 hp which I love. however, I would like to get offshore a bit quicker. Fishing within 45 miles, having a smoother ride out within 3 ft wave with the ability to add a trolling motor.
With so many brands to choose from, I would rather rely on the sea veterans for guidance. What boat and engine size would you suggest?

Much obliged
Fraser

FS Blair

There are a lot of center consoles in the 22-24 foot range that will get you offshore quicker and in more comfort than a 20 foot cc.  Being able to remain a single engine boat with the ability to add a trolling motor seems to be what you'd be looking for.  One good boat that offers a lot of value for it's price is the Robalo 242.
http://www.floridasportsman.com/2019/01/10/boat-review-robalo-242-explorer/

Another is the Cobia 240

http://www.floridasportsman.com/2019/02/21/133119/

Soda Popinski

New or used?   Used I would look for a Hydra-Sport 24-25 with twins.   Built like tanks, they are heavy, but they are well built and you can put  a lot of power on the back.    The bigger Cape Horns are obviously good too but you already know that.   

finbully

What is your budget?

cftsmoke

Are you sure you want to do this?  Really sure?  Like "I hate my money so much, I'm going to throw it all away" sure?

Although twins ARE actually more than 2x as expensive to run, I wouldn't be comfortable out 40-60M on a single engine although I see plenty of guys do it.  I also found a huge difference in comfort and ride going from a 22' to the 30' I'm in now.  But the change wasn't cheap.

Alot of boats are fine on good days but make sure you end up with a boat that will be safe when a good day turns snotty.  I spend alot of time out there in NE Fla and have been surprised a few times how the swell/waves change in 5-10m increments. Last weekend, the run from Mayport to BR was nice, from BR to Elton was much rougher and from Elton to the Ledge, it calmed down again.  Weird but I've seen it happen many times.  The problem is when that happens when you are already out there and the rough stuff is between you and home.  Make sure you get a quality hull but buy enough boat.