Ribcraft 5.85 or 6.5?

[dvt]

I am looking to upgrade my Zodiac MkIIc to a Ribcraft, and am torn between the 5.85 and 6.5. As mentioned on this forum, there's a dearth of information on Ribs here in the US (though I'm a long time inflatable fan originally form New Zealand), so here I am.

My use of the boat would be running to the channel islands off California(not to be confused with the "other" channel ) 30 to 60 miles off shore, usually in 2-3 ft swell, with 2-4 ft wind waves.

how does the 5.85 handle those types of conditions? - is the 6.5 considerably smoother (due to its increased length?).

Bottom line is I'd like the 5.85 if it would handle these conditions relatively comfortably and safely, due to the ability to store it more easily, but would go to the 6.5 to get a more comfortable ride.

Thanks all

Dave van Toor,
California

[John Kennett]

Either will be a good choice. The 585 is very capable, but you will definitely get a better ride from the bigger boat. That extra 2' makes a big difference.

If you can sort the storage out, you're likely to be be more satisfied for longer with the 6.5. If you can't then you'll still do fine with the 585.

Have fun!

John

[Mollers]

I think you've kinda answered your own question. The RC 585 is good (I was out in one this weekend in big sea). The 6.5 is going to be better. If you are restricted by garage length then the RC 585 is one of the best of it's size. Don't discount the Osprey Vipermax 5.8. It is the well kept secret of the industry. Distibution and sales issues have now been resolved. It's a stunning boat. When I bought my VM 6.5, Osprey's were rarely mentioned, now they are raved about. Happy residuals.

[Downhilldai]

Mollers - Do Osprey have a US distributor?

[nugent]

http://ospreyowners.webeden.co.uk/
lookie here for best info details

[Mollers]

Originally Posted by Downhilldai

Mollers - Do Osprey have a US distributor?

Prob not, but such obstacles can be overcome relatively easily.

[mike]

hi
I'm sure that over here the 585 and the 6.5 are different boats with the 6.5 being a newer generation and based on a faster ride. This is my understanding at least.???
The range goes 5.85/6.3 and 6.8.
I have spoen to a few 6.3 owners and they love the boat, its a superb platfom and the internal size is only 10cm short of the 6.8 due I think to the fact that the ovehang on the tubes is the differnce.

For the job you have in mind I'd go bigger, but if possible speak to ribcraft and also test the boats.

[jyasaki]

Hi, Dave;

Personally, I'd go bigger if your wallet and garage can afford it. Seas can get kind of ugly in the SB channel. You'll want more boat on those occasions (and having extra deck space is always a good thing.)

Diving, cruising, or purely transport? Just curious.

jky

[Channelwatch]

Hello Dave,

We agree, go bigger if possible. We have 7.8M Ribcraft and love it.

Give us a call as we put lots of hours on our RIBs and most of it is buzzing back and forth to the Islands. We'll share our thoughts and show you the Ribcraft.

A RIB is a great way to enjoy the Islands. You'll love it.

[dvt]

Originally Posted by jyasaki

Hi, Dave;

Personally, I'd go bigger if your wallet and garage can afford it. Seas can get kind of ugly in the SB channel. You'll want more boat on those occasions (and having extra deck space is always a good thing.)

Diving, cruising, or purely transport? Just curious.

jky

JKY - mainly Diving. Get out to Catalina & San Clemente fast, dive & come home.