BajaNomad

rigid inflatable w/ center or side console?

capt. mike - 7-27-2005 at 04:36 AM

anyone know about these types of boats? recommendations? on make/models/ engine sizes?

4baja - 7-27-2005 at 06:12 AM

look into coast guard auctions. i meet a guy who bought one of those and it was a awsome fishing dive boat and got it cheap too. hows the weather in mulege?:coolup:

Diver - 7-27-2005 at 07:12 AM

Recommendation; Don't get one !

1. The usable area of the boat is less than a normal boat. You need to consider the amount od useable space vs the overall size of the thing.
2. They are wetter in any seas as the top edge of the inflatable hull does less to stop spray than a normal boat. (For the same usable are, an inflatable will usually cost more and be larger to tow.)
3. They are a little more seaworthy for more extreme conditions but not a very comfortable ride in any conditions but near-flat.
4. They are a cool looking toy that has more maintenance than most other boats. Two hulls to deal with and the out one DOES leak, at the fittings in time, as well as any punctures you put in by rock, trailer etc...
5. The hardshell negates most of the portability of an inflatable with it's increased weight.

If you want a safer boat, get a Whaler, Maco, Angler, Aquasport or other foam-filled hull. They will last longer with less headaches, more usable space, better features for fishing, more accessories and standard parts available (ie trim tabs, kicker brackets...), cuddy cabins........

We have an '82 Aquasport 26' center console with a "T" top, 2004 Merc and an 11'x5' Zodiak with a 9.9 that works as a kicker for the big boat. The older deep V hull goes anywhere at 45 mph. I had a 22' Maco that was a great boat and a bit easier to trailer. We got the Zodiac at a boat show special over ten years ago for cheap and it only has one patch.

Just my two cents !

bajajudy - 7-27-2005 at 09:08 AM

I agree with Diver...Get a solid hull boat and forego the patch kits.

Bob and Susan - 7-27-2005 at 10:08 AM

http://recycler0.ipixmedia.com/abc/recycler/_RECYCLER_16807c...

$1000 for this

Tri hulls are worse than inflatables

jrbaja - 7-27-2005 at 10:25 AM

Mike, I've owned two inflatables. I had them because I could beach launch them anywhere. The most recent was a 12' Zodiak which saw a lot of Baja. Many stories, fish and fun.
But, I was younger then. They will play hell on any back that has crashed before. Serious! Unless you use it just for diving on glassy days, I don't think it's a good idea.
A tri hull is a wonderful stable boat, for lakes. You can stand up in them easier than other hulls and they are roomy. But, the minute the wind comes up or a swell starts, it's like riding around on a spatula:lol: slap slap slap and there goes the old spine, teeth, etc..
Do to the winds that seem to be fairly frequent anywhere on the Sea of Cortez, a deep V is a really good thing to have. With a swim step and ladder for us old guys:light:
Comfort is everything Amigo!

Bob and Susan - 7-27-2005 at 10:43 AM

and a toilet w/ a least 8.6 sheets:lol::lol:

Exactly

jrbaja - 7-27-2005 at 11:05 AM

:lol::lol::lol:

all good, thx!!

capt. mike - 7-27-2005 at 05:04 PM

Diver, i know what you mean, Capt. Geo's Dusky probably a better program.
i wanted one just for diving the santa Ynez islas between mulegeb and chivato - nothing major, and maybe little day/bay cruises aroung bahia concepcion. i found an 18' RIB with center and 100 4 stroke etc. well equipped, radios top etc. we'll see where the $$ goes. then i have to get it to mulege, what a drag....
Stevo - its fricking HOTTTT there in moo la hey!!
i am in phx now, hot too....but going to the coast manana for a long weekend!!

Bob and Susan - 7-27-2005 at 05:15 PM

Mike I can haul it on one of my trips....no problem

bob

Joelt - 7-27-2005 at 07:44 PM

Capt. Mike You should but Capt. Georges boat. Wish I could!