Any comments on the boats that were built with an open transom.  Problems with water coming over the swim step area?
I am considering purchasing a boat with an open transom.

thanks

Hi Mike,

Don't have any stories to report about the open transom models, other than their convenience when considering aft deck activities (such as diving).  However, if you are intending to frequently use the boat offshore, you may want to only consider a closed transom boat.    Jay

Many a lobster boat has survived heavy weather fishing with an open transom, and I've even seen a power cat done without the transom, to allow pulling a dinghy up on rollers. Of course you will ship water over the aft deck on occasion, and the good news is that it will empty rather quickly as well. My only concern would be a massive amount of water entering through the cabin bulkhead. I think if I were you, I'd contact one of the many lobster boat builders, such as Atlantic Boat Co. in Brooklin, Maine. They should likely have some insight. 

This boat fishes the coastal waters of New England which can be a wee bit rough. It's a common configuration today for lobsterboats in Maine. The cutdown transom makes it much easier and faster--- albeit more dangerous and harder on the back--- to launch the pots and buoys.