My friend recently took the course, Ill ask him for the info. I got mine when I was 14, so I didnt have to worry. A Larson is a good boat. We had a 236 LXi Bowrider with a 350 Magnum MPI with a Bravo Three outdrive (special ordered 1 of 1 in '97) it went 66 MPH! My father sold it 2 years ago
Anyway, a v6 I/O with an alpha drive is a great starting point. Boats require a decent amount of attention, the better you take care of it, the longer it will last. Saltwater requires more upkeep than freshwater. It is also extremely fun. We started with an 18' Century with a v6 OMC, which was great because it was older an gave us experience on a beginner lever without being nervous about any mishaps(skeg/prop). We spent 90% of the time in lakes, about 10% in the bay/ocean.
If you need anymore specific info, just let me know. If I cant answer, my father will definitely know.