Anyone ever own a Flatacraft Force 4 GT

[hark]

New to this site and I’m form the States. I’ve come across a 1988 Flatacraft Force 4 GT with a 50 HP. I see a lot of positive comments on the Force 4. How about the Force 4 GT? Looks more like a lake only boat is it seaworthy? I am hesitant to make an offer because I have not read any comments on this boat. Any comments would be greatly appreciated

Thanks

[Nos4r2]

There's no such thing as a lake only RIB built in the UK. It'll be seaworthy.

[Chris]

Flatacraft were built originally by Tony Lee Elliot who still writes for Rib International, you may be able to reach him through the magazine.

Chris

[DJL]

I had a 1983/4 Force 4 GT - 50HP Suzuki

The hull was a very shallow V - its almost flat at the bow. When I stepped up to a 4.7 Tornado, which wasn't hugely bigger, distances which seemed like major trips in the Force 4 became insignificant in the Tornado.

The boat was good fun though - very nimble and pretty fast.

The biggest design flaw IMHO was the transom, they weren't all that strong. I've seen many reinforced. The deck bolts for the stainless transom supports kept getting pulled through the deck on mine.

In summary - great boat for its time, but RIB design has moved on. If you are really after a 'seaworthy' (long distance/rough water) boat I'd keep looking.

[hark]

DJL Thanks for sharing your response was the answer I was expecting to hear. It did look a little to shallow in the hull as you said.