Journal
Notes from the build.
Comparisons written to be useful, and a running record of why the 420 is shaped the way it is. Numbers come from measurement. Where a number is not measured yet, it says so.
- 01
Aluminum vs fiberglass: which hull actually lasts
BuyingThe honest comparison, without the brand fight. Weight, repair, resale, and what each material really costs you after ten years.
- 02
RIB vs bowrider: which one is the family boat
BuyingThe comparison almost nobody writes, and the one most first-time buyers are actually making.
- 03
The yacht tender, explained
BuyingWhat a tender has to do, what limits your choice, and why length is the wrong first question.
- 04
Hypalon, PVC, ORCA: what the tube is made of
BuyingThree materials, three lifespans, three prices. What survives the Texas sun.
- 05
Is a RIB a good family boat?
QuestionsShort answer first, then the four things that decide it.
- 07
What size RIB do I need?
QuestionsStart from the people, not from the boat.
- 08
40 hp vs 60 hp on a small RIB
QuestionsWhy the jump matters more than the number suggests.
- 09
How many people fit on a 14-foot RIB, really
QuestionsCertification is a flotation calculation. Comfort is a different number.
- 11
Why 4.2 meters
Design journalThe length was not chosen. It was the only number left after two constraints.
- 12
Why most small RIBs look utilitarian
Design journalNobody decided they should be ugly. It just was never anybody's job to decide otherwise.
- 13
What is an aluminum RIB boat?
BuyingA rigid hull, inflatable tubes, and a welded aluminum bottom. What each part does and who the format is for.
- 14
Welded vs riveted aluminum boats
BuyingTwo ways to join an aluminum hull. How they differ in leaks, stiffness, repair and price.
- 15
RIB boat maintenance: a simple checklist
QuestionsWhat to check after every trip, every month and every season to keep tubes, hull and engine in shape.
- 16
What small boat works best on Texas lakes and bays?
QuestionsShallow bays, chop, ramps and summer heat. Why a short aluminum RIB fits Texas water.
