Bombard Aerotech 380 Questions

MattB · 09 May 2011, 12:21

Hi

New to Ribnet. Currently got a Honwave 3.2 airfloor and am now looking for an Aerotech 380 as they have such a good write up on here. I have a few of questions that I can't find on the existing forum. Wanting one for a bit of fun around the coast including our trip to Salcombe in a few weeks.

1. How long have they been making this boat? Is an old one still worth having or does the material degrade over time?

2. What colours do they come i?. Red is obviously the main colour but I think I have seen grey ones too. Are they still made or were they a special at some time?

3. Should I be afraid of the odd patch here and there or is it to be expected on a second hand boat? Can the airfloor be patched properly so it holds air same as a new one?

4. Has the design changed over the years? For better or worse. I assume they are still made in France or are the newer ones now made in China or similar.

I have seen the refurb that Nasher has done and that looks pretty good for the money he has invested in it. I am after something as new as possible but also as cheap as possible (aren't we all).

Anyone got one for sale? Not many around at the moment. Have checked ebay and Boats and Outboards. I have already got a Yam 15 2 stroke so only need the boat but would consider the full package if one was at the right price. Will also post in the wanted section.

Many thanks.

PeterM · 09 May 2011, 12:29

Hi and welcome Matt. I've not used mine yet so have thought about a lot of the same questions as you.

I have no idea how you date them - I guess based on serial number , but my older smaller bombards had a date on the transom plate...but not on the one I have now.

I dont 'think' the design has changed , but am not 100% sure , but red is normal grey I have only ever seen one on ebay....

Nasher is your man for patches , but if done properly/well I dont think would be a concern.

When everyone is sorted we shall have to arrange a cruise - Me , Nasher , JK, you... any others ?

Pete

Nick Hearne · 09 May 2011, 13:37

Quote:

Originally Posted by MattB

Hi

1. How long have they been making this boat? Is an old one still worth having or does the material degrade over time?

This one says its 1998 which is about as old as I have seen!
Bombard Aerotec 3.8 metre Inflatable boat | eBay UK

2. What colours do they come i?. Red is obviously the main colour but I think I have seen grey ones too. Are they still made or were they a special at some time?

Still made but now only red

3. Should I be afraid of the odd patch here and there or is it to be expected on a second hand boat? Can the airfloor be patched properly so it holds air same as a new one?

I have 2 patches which where on it when I bought it 4 years ago when it was only 1 year old & no problems at all!

4. Has the design changed over the years? For better or worse. I assume they are still made in France or are the newer ones now made in China or similar.

Only the 3.80 still made 4.20 has been discontinued!

Many thanks.

Nick

Boats&Outboards · 09 May 2011, 13:41

Normally last two numbers of serial plate on the rear of transom give the year of ribs, should be the same

Boatsandoutboards4sale ~ askboatsandoutboards4sale@sky.com ~ 07930 421007

Nasher · 09 May 2011, 16:00

We're going to need a seperate section for Bombard 380 stuff a this rate

Nasher

MattB · 09 May 2011, 16:05

Of course I still need to actually find a boat yet!

Anyone know of one for sale??

Got a week in Salcombe first week of June so could do with one by then or will have to take the Honwave.

PeterM · 09 May 2011, 16:07

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nasher

We're going to need a seperate section for Bombard 380 stuff a this rate

Nasher

Maybe start a 'full on' owners club AKA the osprey boys ? Or get out and use the things instead of me sitting at a desk wishing I was out on a boat ?

oh no I am 'working' to pay for that boating stuff....

Nick Hearne · 09 May 2011, 20:05

Quote:

Originally Posted by MattB

Of course I still need to actually find a boat yet!

Anyone know of one for sale??

Got a week in Salcombe first week of June so could do with one by then or will have to take the Honwave.

as I said Bombard Aerotec 3.8 metre Inflatable boat | eBay UK

theres been about 3 just gone on ebay keep your eye out!

PeterM · 09 May 2011, 20:12

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nick Hearne

as I said Bombard Aerotec 3.8 metre Inflatable boat | eBay UK

theres been about 3 just gone on ebay keep your eye out!

I'd be very tempted by that one for up to £600 ish ....

bigscott · 10 May 2011, 19:09

The grey one on ebay looks nice, its listed as year 1998 so I make that 12+ years old.

Ive seen aerotecs go for around £450 so the starting bid (£500) seems a bit much for a boat that age. Or am I way off the mark ???

Nasher · 10 May 2011, 19:25

I think you'll struggle to find a good one for under £500, and that will be a bare boat with no bow bag, seat etc.

I was really lucky to find ours as a 'project' for under £200, but I've put a lot of effort into it since.

Nasher.

bigscott · 10 May 2011, 20:21

Ive seen your pics Nasher and you've done a superb job