I second the idea of a boat capable of some speed but run slowly. The west coast FL cruising area offers many places to go and having a bit of speed for part of the trip is nice.
Tampa bay is not a bad central location but you dont want to be docked in Tampa itself because is is a long trip down to the Gulf or ICW. St. Pete or so isnt too far to make Sarasota or Clearwater in an easy trip.
If you can afford it I suggest considering a mid 40s length boat. You will never regret the extra space and might even avoid the boaters mistake of buying the wrong boat then upgrading in a few years.
A lot of people enjoy docking in a busy place so they can enjoy just being on the boat if a cruise isnt in the pans for a short weekend. St. Pere down town is my favorite with Sarasota second. St. Pete is freeway all the way from Lakeland.
Go drive around and see what you find attractive.
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