Rigid Inflatable Aluminum Boat $ VS $$$

[Champlain]

Does anyone make an affordable ~23' RIB aluminum plate center cabin?

Everything I have found is obviously targeted to military/govt. customers with very deep pockets.

$150K, stripped, is typical, easy to hit close to $200K with power and basic options, for a 23-25' of this design.

I just don't see the rationale for the prices, which are starting to approach aircraft pricing.

[Chaps]

Have you looked at Lifeproof Boats? http://www.lifeproofboats.com/models-1/

They are more focused on recreational rib boats (hard foam collar).

Not cheap but at least they are trying to compete in the private market

I agree that the pricing on all new boats has gotten way out of hand

[Champlain]

http://www.lifeproofboats.com/inventory23-full-cabin

23' Lifeproof, with power and options, a mere $159,000.

Plus it includes a Mercury inboard diesel, not exactly my first choice of power.

I think that would only attract the 1% buyer, and tax-funded agencies.

[MacCTD]

Safe boats are frequently on eBay, seems like a good deal put on your choice of power http://www.ebay.com/itm/2004-Safe-Boat- ... 1948546913

[Champlain]

$55K for a stripped 2004 hull, or he can ship it powered for only $100K.

I think this is proving my point. $100K for a 12 year old boat, with 2006 Verados, and he'll even include seats for that price.

I wouldn't touch that package with a 10-foot boat-hook.

Way out of my upper middle class earning level for a boat and power that old...I don't think that will be an easy sell on eBay. But, at least not a Mercury I/O diesel.

" I can sell the boat as is, which is what the fixed price is 55K, if someone wants the boat outfitted, I can do for 100K. That would include 2006 Twin 275 Mercury VERADO Outboards with 540 hours and seating."

[MacCTD]

I would have no issue buying that boat, there is little that can go wrong it. Not sure how handy you are but I would be confident in buying that boat cleaning it up, rewiring if needed but it is probably done to a pretty high standard from the factory so 12 years should not be an issue. repower with a pair a used 250hp 4 strokes and some decent electronics be all in for $80-$85k.