Jim:
One other thought. The 285 comes with a swim platform transom. How did your friend modify the transom to add more waterline?
To be honest, the major set of reasons that I bought this boat was 1) looks, 2) swim platform, 3) coach roof mounted traveler and 4) interior. The entire package results in a very comfortable weekend cruiser for a small boat. The added benefit was her ability to keep up with the 30''s
