New from Sydney, about to buy a Highfield Reef 460

GI-SYD · 03 October 2017, 07:14

Hi all, I am GI from Sydney, I am about to order a Highfield Reef 460, which is basically an Ocean Master hull, but without the flat-deck floor, instead just a narrow strip down the spine. Deeper hull as a result, much lighter.

For the engine I am looking at the new Honda BF40, with the new centre-mount tiller. That way we can drive from both sides easily.

We will use the RIB for sail coaching, video filming, SCUBA, spearfishing and basic mucking around

This is a Reef 390, a much narrower (180cm) and smaller boat:

GI-SYD · 03 October 2017, 07:22

More Highfield Reef 390 pics I took at the dealer's yard (this boat is for sale BTW). Mine will be a white 460, but you get the idea:

GI-SYD · 03 October 2017, 07:30

Things I like about the Reefs: strong 4mm aluminium hull, same as the OM. Same tubes as the OM. Deeper floor. Dual grab ropes on both sides. Forward tank storage. Anchor storage. Now I need to figure out what to do for seating: just stick with the thwart seats, or aluminium box-thwart seats that provide some storage, or a compact console?

Any suggestions?