After owning 20',22',24'let me give you my experience; if you can affordd it, get it over with and buy something that truly handles the ocean. Don't get me wrong,24' Wellcraft is a graet boat but in 4+ chop you will quickly feel like you have a small boat. I currently own 28' Bertram and I will tell you, this thing kicks ass! - yes fairly expensive to maintain (not even that bad on fuel when you figure in what trailering does to mileage on the way to and from where ever). There are several good boats in the same range so look around. Remember, eventually you will realize 24' aint gonna do it in any kind of weather.