A couple other things to consider.
Can you deal with losing the majority of your storage space?
Don't cut your hull because you like the idea of being able to carry more people. Maybe being 2 feet longer than my boat might make a difference, but I don't drive on plane with anyone seated up front.
The best part about an open bow? Walking into the boat through the bow instead of over the gunnels or the deck.
Just my .02