Seeking a Review of Inflatable RIB Tenders

[Jerry Keto]

I'm currently looking at replacing my panel bottom inflatable (Seaworthy from Boat US) with an RIB (Rigid bottom) inflatable. The panel bottom isn't all it's cracked up to be and frankly is more work than it's worth. The inflatable keel doesn't do much for tracking and in fact provides a safe haven for water (then mold) under the panels that can not be easily removed without frequent deflating, disassembly and scrubbing. There are certainly numerous Mfr's. and styles to pick from. I'm currently floating in Canada but will return stateside in the next couple of years so warranty, as well as availability in Canada, are an issue. Does anyone know of a good objective review of these inflatables? I'm currently focused on the Zodiac YL 275 R and the Avon R 280.jerry.keto@opg.com

 

[Steve Dion]

Check out........

AB, Caribe, Achilles and there are other good ones too. Practical Sailor has done reviews on these units too, so try to get a copy.Be sure that the fabric is high on the list. PVC has it's own set of probems. I'm not talking about the PVC that you see on a Sevelyor type unit either. Hypalon is a must if you want to leave it out in the sun and inflated for the entire season.

 

[Mac Lindsay]

Aquapro

Is another brand from New Zealand. I bought one last year and haven't been disappointed. Mine is the 910 RIB with an aluminium bottom and weighs 32kg(70lb). Good hunting, Mac

 

[Rob]

inflatable comparison

I just read a great artical in "Blue water Sailing" this artical has pros and cons discrition of various types of inflatbales. Here is the link to the online magazine..how ever ithe artical is in the paper addition....March 2003.Happy sailing. RobPS I bought ours from West Marine 310 RIBlove it.

 

[Harman]

RIB

I just bought a Mercury Inflatable, 270 Valiant (yes Mercury Engines now makes inflatables) and got a great price on it.