Hello, from Richard in Dorset

[rich2925]

Hello

I have been visiting the forum for a while now and reading a number of threads and thought it was time to introduce myself.

We have been into boating for about 3 years now and have decided to change our Bayliner 642 for a 7-8 meter rib.

We have looked at the cobra 7.5m and ballistic 7.8m, does anyone have any advice or experience of either of these or any other suggestions.

We boat out of Christchurch dorset

Thanks for any advice

Richard

[lakelandterrier]

Hi Richard,

Welcome to Ribnet.

I'm sure lots of people will have views on the best 7-8m rib but it will depend on what you want to use it for.

I think if you can define what sort of ribbing you want, e.g. distance cruising, family days out, watersports etc, then you can narrow down the most suitable marques / configurations somewhat.

I'd arrange test runs - with the family - if they are to rib with you - on the boats you short list & see how each one feels before making a final choice.

Some other makes that might be worth a look - in no particular order - Ribquest, Osprey, Ribcraft, Ribeye.


Good luck!

LT

[rich2925]

Thanks for this, we are really looking for days out visiting beaches and a bit more distance cruising. My thought is that the more comfortable the ride the further we will explore. We normally have between 4-8 people on board and will be looking at some watersports when the children are a bit older. The are currently 6 and 8.

we have actually tested the cobra and really liked it.

[Nos4r2]

Welcome to Ribnet

I've got a Ballistic 7.8. Any specific questions?

There's some footage of mine on Youtube here:-

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RC1kkDpACtY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mANBXMmadH4

I love the boat. She does everything I ask of her,and I've been out in up to F8 with her.The hull is so planted I can put the helm hard over and go to full throttle and there's no slip at all-it just sits on one tube.
I'll be brutally honest. I wouldn't swap it for a Cobra unless I had an instant buyer for the Cobra at substantially more than the Ballistic is worth.

[rich2925]

Thanks Nos4r2

This is great to see on win action, I do not have any particular questions but may come back to you when I can think of something.

richard

[Searider]

Scorpion 7.5 or 8m?
Lymingtonmarinesales often have some.

[boristhebold]

Sounds like your main interests being leisure boating and the numbers of people onboard you will want something comfortable with plenty of storage space and seats. I think the Cobra or Scorpion ribs would be a good choice. Depends maybe on budget a new scorpion is pricey compared to others but have heard very good things about quality. Cobras pretty decent, I have one, comfortable and able even in the rough stuff. Good seating and storage.

If second hand plenty of scorpions or cobras to choose from in the south. Check out Cobra ribs based in christchurch ask for josh or steve and check out lymington marine sales in lymington who deal in second hand scorpions, scorpions built in lymington.

[rich2925]

I have actually spoken to Cobra who had three 7.5m when I started looking but they are all sold now, I need to sell the current boat first but nice to hear you are happy with yours.

richard