SIb and engine combination.

[Robmac]

I am considering the following SIB;

https://www.fishingmad.co.uk/1213514ft- ... -14ft.html

I do realise that it is probably bigger than I actually need for just me but I do like room on a boat and I also carry a lot of camping/fishing stuff.

It is to be used on inland waterways (so rivers with very low speed limits) and occasionally in the Lakes and Scottish lochs. I was considering a 6hp outboard as I'm not really interested in getting on the plane, more slow speed touring really. However, I'm advised that 6hp may just be a little too low especially on the lochs so I'm now considering maybe a Tohatsu 9.9.

Any comments on speed/economy with this sort of setup? I like to be self sufficient sometimes for up to a week at a time without the need to find fuel so that is quite important.

I will be looking at other boats in the meantime so any suggestions welcome, but I do want an aluminium flat floor and the beamier the better.

Thanks in advance.

[Robmac]

Since posting I have looked around at various other makes and spoken to friends who own SIBS. The verdict so far is that the make is not as big as others offering similar sized boats for not a lot more.

I haven't written the Bison off but I have just asked for a quote for one of these with either a 15 or 20hp Tohatsu;

https://www.excel-inflatables.co.uk/inf ... xhd435.php

Any thoughts?

[Tyger]

Nice.

[Tyger]

I have a new 20hp tohatsu..... its exactly the same size and weight as the 15hp so if money isn't an issue go for the 20hp.
I waited months for mine they are like hens teeth.... my local supplier had a 10 , 15 and 20 just arrived two weeks ago if they are still there and you are interested ( Manchester).

[Robmac]

Thanks Tyger,

I'm still awaiting a reply from Meridian Marine for the Excel/Tohatsu combo - but I'm told I'm not allowed a new boat until I have sold my river cruiser which is going up for sale shortly.

I must admit I am quite taken with the Vanguard and might even go for the larger 485.

[Essexkayak1]

95kg for just the boat? If you are hand launching I probably couldn't pull that up a slipway with an engine