So, you’re thinking about buying a rigid inflatable boat? Great choice! RIBs are incredible vessels that offers the perfect blend of performance, comfort and versatility, not to mention being the best boat choice for family boating, fishing, wakeboarding and more…
Buying a rigid inflatable boat – or any boat for that matter – is a big decision. We’ve spent years helping boat owners find their perfect match, but have noticed that there are certain mistakes that pop up when customers are considering the various range of RIBs available to them.
Whether you’re stepping into the world of RIBs for the first time or upgrading your current vessel, in this guide we’ll walk you through some of the most common mistakes we see people make when choosing their rigid inflatable boat and more importantly, how to avoid them.
Mistake #1: Choosing the Wrong Size RIB Boat
One of the most frequent mistakes we see is buyers selecting a smaller size rigid inflatable boat that doesn’t match their long-term needs. RIBs inherently have a higher passenger capacity than hard boats of their size, and so many customers opt initially for more compact RIB size however often return a year later to upgrade their RIB to a larger size as their boating ambitions expand and as they bring more people onboard.
How to Avoid This:
- Consider your typical passenger count – how many people will you have with you? Will they each have a seat or will they need to sit on the tubes?
- Think about your storage capacity – account for equipment storage, making sure there are enough lockers for your gear.
- Factor in your regular boating activities – how do you plan to use your boat? How far will you travel?
- Plan for future needs, not just current ones
Mistake #2: Compromising on Quality for Price
In the world of RIB boats, the old saying “buy cheap, buy twice” rings true. With so many rigid inflatable boat brands on the market, there’s a huge array of options to choose from.
However, it’s important to know that not all RIBs are built the same and quality standards can noticeably differ based on manufacturer, resulting in higher maintenance costs and shorter lifespan.
What to Look Out For:
- Research tube material quality (Hypalon vs PVC) – Hypalon is a much more durable material and is more resistant to UV. Here at Grand Boats we use industry-leading Orca Hypalon.
- Examine the hull and gel coat – Is the fibreglass shiny, for instance? This tends to indicate that care has been taken at the point of manufacturing to polish and cleans the boat.
- Investigate the manufacturer’s reputation and where they are built
- Does the boat have an Australian Builder’s Plate?
- Inspect the quality of the fixtures and finishes – many cheaper rigid inflatable boat brands use inferior materials that rust easily and cheapen the appearance of the boat.
- Look at resale values of different brands
- Check warranty coverage
Mistake #3: Overlooking Safety Features On Their Boat
While rigid inflatable boats by their very nature are incredibly safe (and in fact the safest form of leisure boat on the market!), there are additional safety details that you should have in mind when looking at different RIBs.
What to Look Out For:
- What safety equipment is included in the boat package? Does the boat include items such as VHF Radios, Chart Plotters etc?
- Does the boat have moulded seats? These are seats that are moulded into the fibreglass of the boat and sit inside the boat rather than on the boat. Given the low freeboard of a rigid inflatable boat, these types of seats can enhance the comfort of your passengers.
- Are there handrails throughout the boat? Features such as bow-mounted handrails and railings around the console or seating can make for a much more comfortable and safer passage in and around the boat.
- Does the RIB offer a dry ride? Well-designed rigid inflatable boats will really effectively deflect spray and water away from the helm, cockpit, bow and stern seating so no water enters the boat.
Mistake #4: Not Considering Your Dealer’s Support Offering
Beyond just the boat itself, the dealer support available to you both during and after the purchase period can also significantly impact your boating experience.
What to Look Out For:
- Ask about the after-sales support – How does the dealer offer help in case any issues arise? What does the warranty process look like? Will they be able to support you with any questions you have going forward?
- Ask about spare parts availability
- Understand the delivery and handover process – Will the dealer deliver the boat to you and guide you through using the boat?
Making the Right RIB Boat Choice For You
Avoiding these common mistakes comes down to proper research and asking the right questions. Here’s a checklist of things we’d suggest you have in mind during the pre-purchase period:
1. Define Your Boat Usage:
- How will you primarily use the boat?
- Where will you be boating?
- How many people will typically be aboard?
2. Set Realistic Expectations:
- What’s your true budget, including maintenance?
- How much time can you dedicate to boat care?
- Where will you store your RIB?
3. Do Your Rigid Inflatable Boat Research:
- Research different manufacturers and brands
- Read customer reviews
- Visit dealers and inspect boats in person
- Request sea trials when possible
Read More: Choosing The Best Rigid Inflatable Boat For You
The Path to Successful RIB Ownership
Buying a rigid inflatable boat should be an exciting experience, not a stressful one. By avoiding these common mistakes and taking time to make a decision that suits you, your family and your lifestyle, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect RIB boat for your needs that will last you for years to come.
Ready to start your RIB boat journey the right way? Our team here at Grand Boats Australia specializes in helping buyers find their perfect boating match. We’ll guide you through the different boat models available, ensuring you make a choice you’ll be happy with for years to come. Drop by our Gold Coast showroom or give us a call – we’re here to help you avoid these common mistakes and find your ideal RIB boat.
