Quote:
Originally Posted by arterak
Greetings!
I run a sailing program in the Caribbean and am looking to upgrade our fleet of RIBS. We have an aging fleet of AB Oceanus 15's that we use for watersports and short range transportation. We are debating between buying the Zodiac pro 500 or the Highfield Patrol 4.6. Interested to hear peoples thoughts on ride quality, price, quality, durability, etc.
Thanks in advance,
Arter
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Hi Arter
I used to run the Zodiac Pro 9 man and now run a Highfield Patrol 600.
I know its a bigger boat but I find the hull shape on the Patrol so much better for cutting through waves, gripping the water in turns and holding waves when playing. The Zodiac is very much suited to flatter waters when compared to the Patrol.
The large high bow, along with the double spray rails gives a much dryer ride too, when combined with the larger console the helm stays dry in most conditions.
Storage wise the Patrol wins too, plenty of space in the locker and seat pod design. The smaller tubes on the Zodiac made for getting back in from the water easier, but a ladder or strop soon solves that.
Deck space there;s not a massive amount between them, the hull on teh zodiac has the inner upstand, I found this took up some useable space, but not enough tow orry about, that said the inner beam on the Highfields does feel a lot larger, even with the bigger tubes, and I'm sure thsi si down to the visual image this step brings.
I enjoyed my Zodiac, but having played with both, wouldn't go for one again over the Highfield.
You do need to think of supplier as it'll makes a difference in the support available. So long as each boat supplies what you need then local supplier is key.
(Not Another) Nutkin
