Ribcraft or Gemini?

The Edges · 01 November 2004, 21:53

Hi
This is my first thread, so here go's it!
I Want to buy a rib for leisure and some "safe" cruising
On the shortlist is the Ribcraft 5.3 and Gemini 5.50 (both can accommodate double console and 2x2 jockeys) would love a 5.85 but I'm on a budget!)
Any experience out there of either boat? Anything else for the shortlist?
Cheers

Richard B · 01 November 2004, 22:35

Hi Aedge

Couple of well regarded RIBs there. Subtly different - Ribcraft can probably customise ad infinitum if you are buying new, Gemini may be a bit more limited for console/seat choices (and you need to be happy with a rather lorry-like steering wheel position on their double console). The Gemini has, I think, a fully moulded deck and a largely wood-free construction. The slightly longer boat may offer a little more comfort.
P'raps also consider Humber Ocean Pro, but take your time choosing and do a sea trial - it's amazing how different RIBs can be.
Are you looking at new or used RIBs?

(You should also look at Tornado http://www.ribs.co.uk / XS-RIB http://www.aboard.co.uk/remoteurl?ht....xs-ribs.co.uk loads of satisfied customers)

brucehawsker · 02 November 2004, 00:18

How about the Solent 5.5M? Great fun, and well finished. Talk to Kevin at Solent. My new 6.5 is stunning - but I would say that

The Jackeens · 02 November 2004, 07:25

Can certainly recommend Gemini for both leisure and safety. Our littler model can take a hammering and come up smiling

Why don't you ask the Gemini lads for a sea trial?

missus

simmons0 · 02 November 2004, 07:42

Quote:

Originally Posted by brucehawsker

How about the Solent 5.5M? Great fun, and well finished. Talk to Kevin at Solent. My new 6.5 is stunning - but I would say that

The solent 5.4 looks nice but ive never been on it and i dont think they offer a double console with it.

The Edges · 02 November 2004, 09:26

Quote:

Originally Posted by The Jackeens

Can certainly recommend Gemini for both leisure and safety. Our littler model can take a hammering and come up smiling

Why don't you ask the Gemini lads for a sea trial?

missus

Thanks for the feedback
Went out for a blast with them last month v impressive (Particularly with 115 strapped on the back!!!)
Its decision time. I'll let you know
Thanks again

The Edges · 02 November 2004, 09:44

Quote:

Originally Posted by Richard B

Hi Aedge

Couple of well regarded RIBs there. Subtly different - Ribcraft can probably customise ad infinitum if you are buying new, Gemini may be a bit more limited for console/seat choices (and you need to be happy with a rather lorry-like steering wheel position on their double console). The Gemini has, I think, a fully moulded deck and a largely wood-free construction. The slightly longer boat may offer a little more comfort.
P'raps also consider Humber Ocean Pro, but take your time choosing and do a sea trial - it's amazing how different RIBs can be.
Are you looking at new or used RIBs?

(You should also look at Tornado http://www.ribs.co.uk / XS-RIB http://www.aboard.co.uk/remoteurl?ht....xs-ribs.co.uk loads of satisfied customers)

Thanks for the feedback
Tested the 5.3 a couple of weeks ago in portland bay in a force 8 blow. Unbelievable!! and felt totally safe.
The Gemini was trialed in Southampton water and was similarly impressive better at tight turns and a little more space.
Its a close one!
I favour hypolon, so I'll take a look at the Humber offer
Thanks again

Edgey

Rogue Wave · 02 November 2004, 11:16

I think your choice of the two boats is quite good. The gemini is a fine boat and so is the Ribcraft. you can have a lot of console seat variations with the Gemini's and they are very solidly built. If you do choose one don't go for the light grey colour tubes.....theyar every difficult to keep clean.

The Jackeen have a 5.3 Gemini and they have clocked hundreds of hours on it and it still looks great and goes well. Also Ignore Avon sea riders at your Peril.

By the way Jools is selling his Ribcraft 5.85 which is a a very low hours and well specced boat

peter 24/7 · 27 November 2004, 22:41

I know you said the Ribcraft 5.3, I would go for the 5.85 if your budget allows. This was my first boat at it was fantastic in heavy seas. As it is custom built, console applications are up to you. Some good second hand ones currently available.

The Jackeens · 28 November 2004, 11:34

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rogue Wave

. If you do choose one don't go for the light grey colour tubes.....theyar every difficult to keep clean.

The Jackeen have a 5.3 Gemini and they have clocked hundreds of hours on it and it still looks great and goes well.

The grey has suited us rather well really. It ages well.
Oh and it's 5.05 R. W. ! But ta for the extra length

It goes very well indeed !
(But perhaps this thread should be elsewhere?)

Us