Choosing a Liferaft

[pugwash]

A four-man cannister liferaft costs £579 (Arimar) or £599 (Plastimar). The RORC version of the latter is £809 but the extra equipment is worth much less than £200. The only big difference seems to be a double floor. Could I get some guidance here please
1) Are these good brands?
2) For Channel sailing, isn't a non-RORC version adequate plus my own grab bag?
3) Any other brands recommendable bearing in mind I need to keep the cost down?
Any thoughts will be welcome. Thanks.


<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[Talbot]

I personnaly would never consider a liferaft without a double floor. The level of equipment within is very dependent on where you intend to do your sailing, and the majority of bits that would be in an ocean raft can be added to your grab bag.
My rationale for deciding on a raft was a good look at the type of conditions where I was likely to need to use it (i.e. survival conditions). Having decided that, I then had a good look at the construction of different models and costs. My final decision was that I could not afford the type I wanted, so I bought a second hand one from Ebay, and had it thoroughly checked out by a service agent (Avon ocean with full e pack) - result a first class liferaft, that I hope I will never have to use, but If I do, is more likely to be able to fullfill its requirement than a lot of the others.
Have a read of what happened to the liferafts during the fastnet disaster!


<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[sjohn_gibson]

I had this problem last year. I had just retired and decided it was now more cost effective to buy than rent.

I go along with Talbot's views. I shopped around the London Boat show and was amazed at the difference in build quality between the £600 and £1200 range.

After a long haggle with the Viking man I parted with the dosh it. It hurt but I have peace of mind!

I recently read a sea survival book - true story of an American who survived circa 70 days in a raft (on route from Canaries to Carabbean) - a read of this might help. I can try and track down the title and author if you wish - send a PM


<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[StephenSails]

I used to service both of the two liferafts and I would say that the Plastimo is a much better quality liferaft. Both of them have badly designed cannisters. I like the Lifeguard rafts.

All depends on how much you value your life!


<hr width=100% size=1>http://www.yachtinguniverse.com