Good sea boats around 4.5M ?

[nreid]

I still trying to figure out what boat to buy and I don't have the huge and vigorous UK market to shop in: yes, I'm jealous! I'm in Washington State in a little backwater town on the outskirts of Puget Sound.

I've read in a couple of places that the Ribcraft 4.8 is a great handling boat in a big chop. My question: what other boats under 4.8 M or so also share this reputation for sea keeping? Does the Hurricane? Which ones should I avoid.
Is deadrise angle at the stern the best measure of how well will she perform or are there no absolute measures other than sea trials????

Thanks-in-advance.

Nick

[batfalcon]

The deadrise ange is not the one and only measure for good handling but has become the most common one. As you realise the bigger number you read for this angle, the "sharper" gets the hull. Thus the shock damping from the waves becomes smoother and the whole ride more comfortable. Of course you need more power to make this hull plane.
I think the best way to become familiar with the terms is to read (study) many many many articles and tests on magazines and form your own opinion.

Michael

[zod550]

did you check out the polaris? chris

[nreid]

Yes I did check out the Polaris, at their factory, not with sea trials. They make two boats in the 4.5 neighborhood, both fairly deep vee, 22 degree deadrise, actually same hull. The boats are, by the factory's description "overbuilt" and are no doubt bulletproof, the only downside being weight. Bill at the factory spent most of a morning with me and answered a multitude of questions. I am planning on going on a demo ride with him in a 15'6" "contender" rib in a week or so. I'll report.

Nick