You remember the feeling. You had butterflies in your stomach, a tingle in your spine. You wore a smile on your face for days. Ah, yes—your first boat. And while you'll never forget it, these 10 new boats for 2004 might just steal your heart all over again. Whether you're looking to rekindle the flames or searching for your very own first boat, this sneak preview is sure to excite your senses.

With the introduction of the 180RX, Stingray is stirring up the competition for price-conscious consumers looking for entry-level models. Priced at $9995, the 18-foot bowrider sports a sundeck, adjustable, molded bucket seats and a wraparound windshield with stainless-steel supports. Woodgrain trim adds a nice touch. And for an 18-footer storage is extensive, including a dual underseat compartment in the bow, space under the sundeck and a locking glove box. Base power is the 135-hp, 3.0L Volvo.

But the warranty alone is enough to spark interest on a boat of this size. The 180RX comes with a 2-year engine warranty, a 3-year limited blister protection warranty and a 5-year limited hull warranty. It doesn't end there. Every Stingray owner gets their own web page, access to an online parts list and access to the Stingray owners' forum.

Colleen Oakley
Boating World