Rinker boats

Thept

Cadet
Joined
Mar 31, 2008
Messages
12
Can any one tell me about the quality of Rinker boats? I've heard that they're not as good as Crownline or Chaparral but just how good are they or not? Also, I noticed in the NADA guidelines there are no 2008 models listed so what's going on with that? Did they go out of business?

I ask because I have a chance to buy an 07 leftover for a good price and it has all the features I want but I am not sure about the quality of the boat or direction of the company. The boat I am looking at is listed as a 240 DB....24' deck boat and there are no listings for this in NADA

Thanks
 

flowjet_man

Cadet
Joined
Mar 8, 2008
Messages
14
Re: Rinker boats

Rinker makes a great boat. Some wouldn't say the very top of the line, but you certainly aren't at the bottom neither. Rinker is like a Buick in my opinion.
 

TilliamWe

Banned
Joined
Dec 21, 2004
Messages
6,579
Re: Rinker boats

Is it possible that the 240 DC is supposed to be listed as DB? Or is the deckboat you are looking at actualy called a Dual Console. Oh, and current model year boats are usually not listed in NADA.
Either way, i think that 240 CaptivaDC listed on NADA is probably the boat you are looking at.
I know people that have Rinkers and love them. I have checked them out at the boat show and they seem to be an outstanding value, especially compared to Regal and Sea Ray. That said, there are a few things about them that I don't like. But that is mostly on their cruisers.
I did see a brand new one with gelcoat cracks all over the transom and under the swim platform once, so you might want to check that out.
 

Thept

Cadet
Joined
Mar 31, 2008
Messages
12
Re: Rinker boats

It is listed as a DB and it is not a center console. I did find out that the dead rise is 17 degrees which is a little more of a flat bottom boat like a Hurricane so it will not cut through chop like a Four Winns or Sea Ray would at a 20 degree dead rise. Still seems like a decent boat and for the right price....
 

2kwik4u

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Mar 19, 2008
Messages
49
Re: Rinker boats

I really enjoy mine.

Saw a 246DB at the show this year, looked like a really nice boat as well.

I also tend to think they are a "middle road" company. Not really a buick as mentioned above, but closer to a Cadillac. Not top end like a mercedes or porsche, but not bargain basement like a Kia or Hyundai.
 
Joined
Apr 7, 2008
Messages
19
Re: Rinker boats

We just bought a 2004 Rinker RX1 - guess its the 212 captiva with the package. It's our first boat and so far we are finding it great so hoping it's decent value for the money. We were VERY close to buying a brand new 21ft Crownline - but umm 36k vs 20k - I just couldn't swallow the new price.
 

tmh

Lieutenant Junior Grade
Joined
Aug 16, 2006
Messages
1,136
Re: Rinker boats

I'd say the "Buick" analogy is about right for Rinker. "Cadillac" infers "the best" which is not the case. Buick is the "value luxury" brand I'd say as is Rinker. They are considered good boats so if the layout, power etc. fits what YOU want I'd say they're a great choice. Certainly, a well cared for Rinker will last a long time in great condition!

In the mid-level boat brands, my opinion is you go with layout and amenities YOU prefer and cost over brand name. None of them are going to fall apart or wear out fast if cared for. It's the usability that makes the difference, and this can be different for each buyer's needs.

Remember, a GREAT boat that doesn't fit your needs when new still won't fit them when it's a 3 year old used boat, still in great condition! Now try to sell it and you've just taken a big hit $$$$ regardless of brand. Buy what fits your family needs and you'll be all set for many years to come.
 

Scout Sport Fish

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Apr 23, 2007
Messages
197
Re: Rinker boats

With my experience with them I would NEVER buy a Rinker.

Along with
Maxum
Bayliner
Yahoo
 
Top