What do you guys think about Robalo boats?

[kkalsch]

My wife,son,daughter and son in -law to be.. all want to learn how to operate a boat and of course take it out on their own-they have driven mine in open water and that's about it. So I was looking at Whaler's and "wow" they hold there value and nobody is giving them away -I also know this boat will be banged up a little through the normal learning curve with new boaters. I have came across this Robalo and it runs good -this would be kinda of a surprise for them as a family gift
Any input good or bad would be great

Thank you and Merry Christmas

Ken


http://raleigh.craigslist.org/boa/4800313111.html

 

[Craigalan]

Robalo is decent. But, you might want to look Grady White. Similar style, but sleeker and a higher resale. Some of their bowriders are less fishing boat, and a little more fun. We have had 3 Grady's in my family and all have been solid as a rock.

 

[Lazy Daze]

Don't forget Grady - they're top notch, as well (like Whaler). But, yeah, they sure do hold they're value!

This is going back to the late 80's, early 90's, but I was working at a place that sold, among other things, Robalo. At the time, I remember thinking that they seemed like a pretty solid boat. They were made, if memory serves, at the time by US Marine (also made Bayliner and Maxum). I believe they've changed hands several times since, but I haven't been immersed in that part of the industry for some time, now, so I can't give you any "new" information. But, the deal seems like a pretty fair one - boat, motor, trailer - a good sized engine for that boat (and a saltwater-series engine, too) - would probably sell for about the same price in a few years.

Check it out - if it seems solid (open deck plates, knock around, etc, etc, etc - you know, the same old stuff), go for it. The boat is 16 years old - if there were any major problems, they would of surfaced by now. It won't carry the "clout" that a Grady or Whaler will, but then you won't be paying as much, either. For someone's first boat to "get their feet wet" with (and they like the CC style) - perfect. If the boat floats, things are in decent shape and the engine is good (it is a solid engine, to start with - no worries with that) - can't lose.

 

[dpmulvey]

See if you can find a used Triumph.

http://www.triumphboats.com

 

[hawgwash]

In general, Robalo is ok. They have been around for quite a while and it is a decent “entry level” boat. Never met a Whaler I liked so I won’t state my bias there. I did run one with a 150 Yamaha in Exuma a few years ago. I don’t recall a number on it but they said it was a 19. It moved; really moved and handled well in those waters. I remember a lack of cleats; stern only which meant the railings and stanchions were used for lines and fenders. Not sure if it was year or model specific. Other than that, it was ok. Check it out well and go from there.

 

[quality time]

Only thing I would caution against is the really low freeboard on some 18-19' CC's. I looked at a few Sea Pro's and Pro Lines before buying my Kencraft 190 and the freeboard difference was huge for the same length boat. This was an issue for me with two small children. That Robalo looks to be pretty low but I know they have other models with deeper gunnels.


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[OldSkool]

My business on Hilton Head had a 26' with twin 150's. It was a good fishing boat and stable in the water. Cabin was nice but sparse. Had the basics and it worked. I would own another for the price.

 

[kkalsch]

Thank you for all the reply's! .....I am going to pick her up tomorrow......