Starcraft mariner flotation

[Gun Dog]

I've been looking at CC boats for a winter project. I've looked at several Angler glass boats and a couple of Starcraft mariners. I can't see how the aluminum boats can stay level in the water in the event of a swamp and bilge failure. It seams there is minimal foam for flotation. I have a glass bass boat with a big motor and a lot of foam and would feel comfortable it wouldn't go to the bottom. Should I just wear the vest and watch the tinny sink?

 

[tx1961whaler]

Re: Starcraft mariner flotation

They are required to have enough flotation to stay afloat. They won't sink, but there may not be much sticking out of the water.
If it bothers you a bunch, then go get a Whaler.
You can totally swamp it and drive right out of it with the plug pulled....

 

[ezmobee]

Re: Starcraft mariner flotation

Here's a level-floatin' tinnie http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w200/ezmobee/063Small.jpg

 

[SigSaurP229]

Re: Starcraft mariner flotation

That makes for a REALLY bad day.

 

[smokeonthewater]

Re: Starcraft mariner flotation

I pulled one like that out once..... the owner pulled the plug and I drug it by the bow eye until it was on top again.... then we stopped and the guy jumped in and put the plug back..... he actually was able to fire it up and keep boating

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: Starcraft mariner flotation

most boats, when fully swamped, float level in perfect conditions. move a finger and it will roll. even though it stays floating, there is surprisingly little above the surface to hold on to or for rescue to see. So the floatation basically will save the boat but not you--at least that's how you should plan it.

 

[Gun Dog]

Re: Starcraft mariner flotation

I would like a Whaler but have not found a fixer. The Mariner I looked at was completely stripped out. I couldn't visualize where I would put enough foam for flotation. Unless something else comes up I may go with the 18' Mariner. I still have some time. Thanks for the advice.

 

[ezmobee]

Re: Starcraft mariner flotation

Plenty of room under the deck for flotation, and if that isn't enough to make you comfortable, there is more room behind the side panels and under the gunwales.

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w200/ezmobee/New Boat/DSCF2378.jpg
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w200/ezmobee/New Boat/DSCF2382.jpg

 

[Gun Dog]

Re: Starcraft mariner flotation

Good photos ez. I like the idea about under the gunwales. Maybe some type of spray foam sprayed up under.

 

[smokeonthewater]

Re: Starcraft mariner flotation

spray foam = buckets of water..... use closed cell ONLY