Alternative to Zodiac Pro 420 or 500

Projectile · 19 October 2013, 16:15

I'm having troubles with my brand new Zodiac WB 465 that may be related to the hull and I'm considering alternatives. A RIB shouldn't have the type of hull issues I may be having with my SIB, so I'm considering a RIB.

I want hypalon/CSM tubes.

What would you suggest other than a Zodiac Pro 420 or 500 and why?

spartacus · 21 October 2013, 08:15

What are the issues you're having with your Zodiac sib?

The Zodiac Pro 420 and 500 (used to be called 7-man and 9-man Pro) both suffer from 'hull slap' because they have relatively shallow v hulls. I used to have the 420 and it was fine in calm waters, but an absolute pain if the wind picked up. Another thing is load, and the number of people on board, as this all helps if you're running against wind and tide. I also had a Zodiac MKIIC Grand Tourism sib, and it was out in all weathers, but needed my brother up front for ballast!

Not sure what boat makes you have access to in Canada? But something up to 5m, decent deep v hull, hypalon tubes and outboard power up to 70hp would certainly fit the bill. This could include Avon Searider 4.7m, Ribcraft 4.8m, Ribquest 4.8m, etc. What's your used market like?

Projectile · 22 October 2013, 13:58

That's good to know, Spartacus. I'll probably only be using the boat on small & medium sized lakes, so that might not be too much of an issue, but I'll keep it in mind.

The used RIB market in Alberta is horrible. It's probably better around Vancouver.

What did you mean about load and wind and tide?