I did end up getting the Horizon Hobby Proboat Recoil 17" and have so far really liked it. I've taken it out on a lake a couple of times, and am very impressed by the overall speed and power of the thing. I did end up having to replace the servo this weekend after hitting a rock near shore...
I am looking to get into RC boating, and want something that can take a lake, ideally hit 30mph, and be under $200. I see two possibilities on Amazon (although I would order through a local hobby store): The Atomik Barbwire 2, and the Top Race TR-1200...