I would definitely prefer diesel as you can easily get fuel just about anywhere. That gives you a lot more flexibility in route planning (and re-planning!) as well as avoiding major hassle. Mike Garside has just gone off on a major jaunt running outboards, so it can be done though!
Are you limited to 6.5m? That would restrict your diesel engine choices, and I wouldn't consider the 1.7l Mercruiser as it's gutless (although other people have been happy with them in 6.5m RIBs - if it has to be a 6.5m diesel then talk to Parker RIBs).
If you go for outboards have you thought about how much fuel you need and whether you will be able to carry it aboard a 6.5m RIB?
For that sort of distance I would try to go for something a bit bigger as it will make things substantially more comfortable. Something around 8.5m would be great, but even going up to 7.5 would make a big deference.
Having said that, assuming you can carry the fuel, any of the boats you listed should be capable of the job and it's down to personal preference. Some are more likely to be ready for the job as they leave the factory, others are likely to need rather more preparation.
In the Parker 650 we install the Mercury Diesel QSD 2.0 150 or 170 with Alpha 1 or Bravo 1 drive, Digital Throttle and Shift controls. In 2011 I had a demo Parker 650 all black with the QSD 2.0 170HP and Bravo 1 drive. This rib I sold to Greenpeace in July of that year and is on-board Artic Sunrise. As far as I know she is serving them well.
You should meet up with DNV (Jan) who is also from Hamburg and has a Parker 630 with the Mercruiser TDI 1.7 (120HP) Jan has done many trips to the Island of Helgoland and can share with you his experiences operating a Parker 630 rib
If you are restricted to finance then the 650 will take you there but it will not be as comfortable like on a 750 or even a larger rib. Like John said diesel should be your choice as in most places in the north petrol is not available in the marinas.
This sounds like an exciting cruise and I can only wish you best of luck in your search for the most suitable rib.
My current demo rib the Parker 750 Baltic diesel will be up for sale later this year. Perhaps that would be a good choice for you.
The RIB must be trailerable. So the 750 is too big (and too expensive for me - but would be a great boat for the trip ).
I´ve send a message to DNV (Jan). Thanks!!
Greetings, Jörg
Jörg
the 750 is trailerable as she come on a truck from Poland. The tubes of course must be deflated.
for sure will cost less than a brand new Parker 650 with Mercury Diesel QSD 2.0 170 HP
the demo Parker 750 Baltic has two fuel tanks each 110 ltrs, engine 260 HP with Bravo 1 leg not forgetting 4G radar, broadband depth sounder and even a structure scan. The radio will be shortly upgraded from the Simrad RS25 to Simrad RS35 with AIS, the GPS is the 12" NSS Simrad "touch screen". She is fitted out well for such a voyage. As you are not in a hurry to buy let me enjoy it for a few more months and later make you a good proposal. The price may just meet with your budget
