T&T: Boss Boat

[Richard P Blake]

Does anyone have any experience with the Boss Boat tenders in the 10 foot

range, (www.Bossboats.com).  They are more expensive than the standard 
inflatable RIB, however, the potential for lasting much longer with
minimal 
maintenance and no inflation problems makes them attractive

REPLY:
Dan,   I have gone thought the same experience with RIBS.  About 6 years
ago Boaters World decided to get rid of their store demo's.  I purchased
one for $2.1 BU and it was the best decision I ever made.  It is the 8.5
foot model and I carry it on the forward deck mounted upside down.  It is
light and easy to launch.  After I arrive at our destination I keep it on
weaver snap davits on the swim platform.  I have a 8.5 HP Nisan 2 stroke
on it which is enough power to get it on a plane with two adults on
board.  I have had 4 medium weight (200 Lbs) adults in it for a short
trip to the beach without any problems but if you want to stay dry 3
adults is the limit for a trip to the dock to go for dinner.  The only
negative I have discovered is the hull is only a few layers of glass for
weight reduction and I rammed one of the weaver davits approaching the
swim platform is a fast current and put a small hole the size of my
little finger in the bow.  It was a easy fix one layer of glass on the
inside and marine tex on the outside wit a little sanding and you can't
see where it happened.  If you have the ability to carry one of these
Boss boats it is the only way to go and the 8.5 model is a nice size for
stowing on a 36' boat.  I love mine and would not part with it for
anything else.


Regards,  Rick Blake
"Private Reserve" Port Charlotte, Fl.
36' Nantucket Sedan Powered by Yanmar