New ribber need some MAJOR help buying his first RIB!

saxart · 10 June 2006, 06:40

Great forum you have here!

I just recently purchased a 38' Carver Aft Cabin and am in need of a good quality rib to use as a "tender" craft for this larger boat.

I grew up driving smaller Boston Whalers, but know NOTHING about RIBs.

I'm looking to buy a RIB boat in the 10-12 foot size and would like to find something with a helm. (steering wheel)

What are some good (quality) brands that a new "RIBBER" like me should look for in the U.S. when purchasing a boat?

I'm looking for good quality, but also value as well.

Thanks much!

Alice · 10 June 2006, 09:34

I'd reckon that a Avon 320 Jetsport is the ultimate tender, No prop to worry about, quick,agile and look good. I know where there is one for sale without a trailer. Not trying to sell it myself as the owner is a 14yo spoilt little s***.

Tibs · 12 June 2006, 16:36

Where abouts are you in the US? Although a bit larger than you are looking for, the Ribcraft 150 not only makes for an excellent tender, but a great stand alone boat. When the 38 footer gets a little big, just hop in the Ribcraft and off you go!!

http://www.ribcraftusa.com/rec/rec150.htm

Tasarsailor · 30 October 2006, 21:59

In the Pac Northwest most cruising boaters are making the switch to RIBs. They used be complelety non existant but are now the standard. Folks finally realized that not having to worry about wacking the side of the boat is a pretty nice feature. Plus they generally tow well if you need to do so.

For cruising powerboats we are seeing a lot more of these:
http://www.bullfrogboats.com/yacht_tender.htm
They make an aluminum hull version that is really light. The rigid tanks are nice for powerboats that use the stern step to store their tenders on their side.

There are products out there for doing the same with a RIB and it works out nicely.

Otherwise, just find a 10-12' RIB depending on beam of your boat. In the US the most available inflatable tenders in that range are: zodiac, achilles, novourania, walker bay (light weight plastic hull), West Marine (if you must), Caribe, AB. In Canada their are the same options plus several Canadian and European makes as well.

Good Luck

jyasaki · 02 November 2006, 07:49

Hmmm. How come your profile thingie on the left says "No boat"?

38' Carver? You're not going to have a whole lot of room; you sure ou can afford to lose the space taken by a 10' RIB?

That said, a small RIB doesn't have a lot of room inside; a console takes up quite a bit of useable space. I'd take a serious look at a comfortable seat and tiller steering.

Luck;

jky