There was a small window yesterday for trying out my new toy so packed the car the night before and headed down to Portland harbour sat morning. Was a little bit apprehensive as this is my first SIB and outboard and haven't got any experience other than kayaking. But I did my homework reading as much as I could and watching plenty of vids on youtube. The launch and retrieval went well other than some wet feet of the kids they jumped in a little too soon
We were on the water for a few hours before the wind got up and kids were getting a bit cold so we headed back in. The 15hp was plenty of power to get the sib planning with gear and 4 of us on board. My fish finder wouldn't power on so not sure what speeds we got up to. Did get up to full throttle at points which was great fun although the mrs didnt approve :rofl
We all had a great time and cant wait to get out again. Really happy with the setup cannot fault it.
Yes I bought it from a guy called Dave on here. Worked great as far as I can tell I think I did have a little cavitation or ventilation a couple of times. I checked the pressure in the floor all was good. Moved the family about a bit and it seemed to help. I have the outboard set on the second hole. Need to get someone to come out with me really that knows what to look for. I had a couple of times when the outboard made some gurgling noises briefly. Seem to happen at lower speeds when I moved to more mid throttle and beyond when the front of the boat went up and planed a bit higher it seemed to go away. Might need to adjust the trim to hole 1 maybe? Or could have just been weight distribution. The water was pumping well the whole time. But yeah first outboard and sib so all new to me.
Went out for a few hours didnt use hardly any fuel at all was really surprised how economical it was. Kept the engine running the whole time too.
Took me about an hour to get unpacked and get in the water. First time launching it all so that will improve. The floor was easy to get in and take apart.
I see you found the free slip at Castletown,👍 l used to launch our aerotec 380. from there. Had to move over to the sailing academy when we got a bigger boat. Nice looking outfit you have, I will look out for you on the water when the weather gets a bit more settled.
I have the same boat, but with inflatable floor and a Suzuki 20hp ob. Glad you enjoyed your first trip out, and look forward to seeing you on the water one day!
Super!
I'm poised to get a vanguard 395 myself.
Nice to see yours in blue! Excel's Web site tells me they are only available in red and black.. I will have to see what I can get!
Hi Mattallica, looks like a great first trip, massive grins from you all although one of your lads looks a bit cold
Looks a nice bit of kit, like the 3 grab handles must make it easier to carry/manoeuvre.
How did you find 4 up with a 15hp? Did it plane OK?
I know I'm biased (I have an SD360) but the Excel's do look the part in every picture I've seen, especially in red, blue & black (sorry if yours is grey!)
spy-sea-one
