petergcmc

I am buying a boat to use around the Greek islands. Currently quite struck by the Bayliner range. But meantime some say I should buy a Rib as they perform better in these waters.

But the equivalent rib costs twice as much. But which is best. Any ideas - advice?

SS930

Bayliner hmmmm.

I think I'd feel a little more comfortable in the RIB!

Dave M

I'm not sure of the availablility of other boat brands over there. Bayliners do not have such a great reputation for quality. If you search around this site you will find that Bayliners are usually mentioned as part of a joke. If you ride in rough water, you won't be happy with a Bayliner.

SS930

Fixed it for you.

petergcmc

How do they (Bayliners) perform say in force 4 - 5 waters - small whitecaps etc. Are they a bit of joke then - and why? I will look around the site for sure!

Thanks

SS930

I don't want to trash Bayliners, but they are really known for poor quality. Thin and weak construction, poor fit and finish... IMO, they have really improved in the past few years. I still wouldn't say they are a great boat, but I think they've become a nice boat for the money (and no guys, I'm not into Bayliners!) Depending on which model/size you're looking at, some of them can handle some fair size water. If big nasty water is what you're worried about, I'd go with the RIB.

Dave M

Thanks!

petergcmc

So poor quality and not so good in heavy seas - how would you compare the 185 Bayliner to the Marlin 16 rib? We'll use the boat for water skiing, coastal stuff. NOthing too heavy duty...

SS930

I personally don't know about the Marlin 16 RIB. If you're talking 16-18' boats and nothing heavy duty, then you'll likely find the Bayliner will serve your needs.

Just for your info, most of the members here are into larger high performance boats and won't have much a lot of info on the boats you're inquiring about (myself included), but with 15,000 of us I'm sure someone can give you more info.

Welcome aboard... and good luck with your search.

petergcmc

Thanks for all your advice - I would prefer the performance boat - but got to start somewhere....

Thanks