fshnoc

I have a Zodiac Coaster SY 6 classe V (XDCA6X388303) which needs repacking (valise). Life raft is about 6-7years old. Last inspection cost me around $600 and this one may be a big one.

Was at the Bay Bridge boat show this weekend and saw the new Viking RescYou Coastal liferaft and was wondering if it is worth it just to purchase a new one? The quote for the Viking ISO 9650-2 liferaft was around $1,750 + $275 (container) + $125 (hydrostatic release).

The rep said the liferaft only needs to be inspected every 3 years because they are vacume packed (sealed) or something. Anyone have any thoughts on what to do?

I was thinking of moving from a valise to a container since the coaster is really heavy and since it is usually stored below - it would be better to have on hardtop.

Thanks in advance.

sailmate

You may want to inquire how much will cost to service the raft (each service) every 3 years....
there is quite a bit more to these rafts than to the ones which are serviced every 12 months
it may be that the cost of service every 3 year will be close to 3 times the cost you are paying to service your raft now, saving you......not much....

Justin_NJ

Not so accurate...

I was researching the cost of repacks since I was going to buy a re-sale raft. For most 3 year rafts, I was getting 'worst case scenario' costs around $600 + tax. From my understanding, it was a similar service - Inflate, check for leaks, refold on new fold lines and then replace all items that would be expired by the next repack date and then pack it back into the container. Unless the raft was damaged and needed a major repair, you should be ok. Non-coastal rafts have higher costs since they contain more items, specifically flares, chutes and such that expire.

Went for new and my Viking RescYou Coastal arrived yesturday!!!!

__________________
Justin

2000 Luhrs 320 Open - CAT Power
United States Power Squadron - Vessel Safety Examiner

fshnoc

Thanks. $600 is about the price I'm receiving for my annual service so going 3 years may be the way to go. How much did the raft cost ya?

Justin_NJ

In a valise I paid 1650 shipped to the loading dock at my job. Freight trucks charge more to deliver to a residential address.
I purchased a valise, the canister with bracket and hydro release cost more.

__________________
Justin

2000 Luhrs 320 Open - CAT Power
United States Power Squadron - Vessel Safety Examiner

jwo9958

We always have Hull Truth special pricing on all manufacturers life rafts. Call 1-800-451-2127 or e-mail me at briank@lrse.com and mention the HT and tell me what your needs are. I will find you the top dealer price. Thank you, Brian Kinsella