[jclark003]

Self contained units make the job of installing a new system somewhat easier. That said there is a lot that goes into the job if the boat has not been previously rigged for AC. You would need to pull power from the breaker panel to the unit, power from the unit to the pump, install pump and sea strainer, pull wire and mount thermostat, install a thru hull for supply water, install a thru hull for discharge water, pull hoses from pump to unit to discharge, install duct work and grills for supply and return air.

I just added a second unit (self contained) to my helm and even with the thru hulls and pumps already installed it still was a big job. If you are paying someone to do all the work be prepared to write a big check. Dbracino is probably providing good advice in finding a boat with AC already installed.

Good luck and hope you find the right boat.