TomBettle Posted June 1, 2011 Report Share Posted June 1, 2011 Guys Dave Barham, editor of Boat Fishing Monthly has asked if I can start putting together a series of Real boat tests. Not the old style reviews that pander to the advertisers, but genuine reviews, warts and all. Naturally the reviews will be positive and offer credit where it is due, but will offer genuine criticism if a failing is apparent. The idea isn't to slag off a boat, simply to talk about the compromises we find on pretty much any boat and if there is anything an owner or manufacturer could do about it. The reviews are to be genuine and not simply a spin around the harbour. They may involve an hour or two fishing plus some real driving and handling so that a proper description can be given. So... Who fancies seeing their own boat featured in a magazine? Who can take constructive criticism. knows that every one of our boats is a compromise and are also able to point out the fabulous things about their boat? Who can put up with me aboard for a couple of hours? - Yes, I'll even need to drive. I don't need brand new boats, I simply ask that the boat is either still in production or very readily available on the used market. Boats of all sizes are welcome. Fancy taking part and seeing your pride and joy in the mag, please PM me or call me. Dave wishes to start with Arvors, but getting the reviews done first is my priority so Arvor, Jeanneau, Raider, Warrior, Whatever.... Thanks for considering it Tom Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Graham Nash Posted June 1, 2011 Report Share Posted June 1, 2011 I have a POLISH Raider Wheelhouse. There is much written about the differences between the newer Polish and the older English ones. I would be interested to hear/see a REAL like for like comparison. I am game Tom, and I dont mind constructive criticism either Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TomBettle Posted June 1, 2011 Author Report Share Posted June 1, 2011 I have a POLISH Raider Wheelhouse. There is much written about the differences between the newer Polish and the older English ones. I would be interested to hear/see a REAL like for like comparison. I am game Tom, and I dont mind constructive criticism either Let's do it Graham. I am under the impression that the Polish problem comes more from the cuddy versions, but lets have a good look together and talk about the findings in print. I have no advertisers to please and no real axe to grind so lets go and have a play with the boat, get some good photos and see what we can come up with. Be great if we can do your review and "A N Other" at the same time and then we can use one as the camera boat and swap over part way through... Anyone else up for it? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Neal Posted June 1, 2011 Report Share Posted June 1, 2011 You are welcome on-board my Arvor. However, having sold some you should by now be aware of all the problems associated with them as well as all the benefits of ownership! Neal Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TomBettle Posted June 1, 2011 Author Report Share Posted June 1, 2011 You are welcome on-board my Arvor. However, having sold some you should by now be aware of all the problems associated with them as well as all the benefits of ownership! Neal Would love to review your 250 or AN Other in the club! I know them inside out, BUT, current pictures and an interview with an owner after living with one for some time is always worth a lot. Again, Neal, lets sort something out. Maybe we can tie something up when we work with Graham too? Thanks for the positive responses chaps Tom Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
fisherman1055 Posted June 1, 2011 Report Share Posted June 1, 2011 Tom Are you doing the MF695 yours or mine?? Tony Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ChrisE Posted June 1, 2011 Report Share Posted June 1, 2011 (edited) Tom, Sounds like a great idea but why do the boats have to be in production? The yotting mags make a good job of reviewing no-longer-in-production boats as people don't necessarily have the dosh for a new boat and are happy to buy an older model to get more bangs for their buck. Just a thought Chris ownerofanoutofproductionbutfabulousboat Edited June 1, 2011 by ChrisE Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
great white Posted June 1, 2011 Report Share Posted June 1, 2011 Tom Do you fancy doing one on a home build, or maybe two offshores? You may have to choose mine for fishing as I am not sure Prodigy is allowed to get dirty Charlie Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jim Posted June 1, 2011 Report Share Posted June 1, 2011 Tom, I need an excuse to get Small Fry out !. You can count me in. And you're welcome to have a go at Skippering her for a while. It'd be a pleasure. Jim Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rob Posted June 1, 2011 Report Share Posted June 1, 2011 Jim, Tom is after an opportunity to speak to skippers who have not just owned their boat for a few years, but used them!!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TomBettle Posted June 1, 2011 Author Report Share Posted June 1, 2011 Brilliant response guys, please keep it coming. At thus rate is going to take a while to get them all done as it has to be on my days off, but it could be a great set of real boat tests that people can use as a future reference. Chris, it doesn't have to be a boat in production, but does need to be readily available on the used market if not available new. Used is good as we can produce a buyers guide too... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jim Posted June 1, 2011 Report Share Posted June 1, 2011 Jim, Tom is after an opportunity to speak to skippers who have not just owned their boat for a few years, but used them!!! I'll bring a big stick to the meeting and Bash you with it Rob. Or maybe I'll just spill beer over you. Jim Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Maverick Martin Posted June 1, 2011 Report Share Posted June 1, 2011 UUuuuumm I see plenty of media coverage for the club here Tom my boat is out of production and there aren't to many about in the UK and they cost to much but you are welcome to come out and review AWOL so long as you drive considerately like what I do Martin Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jim Posted June 1, 2011 Report Share Posted June 1, 2011 Tom, I've fitted a Whale Tail to my engine, so you can let me know what you think. I'm not convinced it was a good Idea ? ? ? Be a good advert for my Rod Tubes too. Jim Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Coddy Posted June 1, 2011 Report Share Posted June 1, 2011 Interesting thread Tom, when I first got into boat fishing/owning I found it very difficult to get decent/helpful information which is why I started my own website, www.fishing-boats.info (thats got my plug over) I admit I have neglected the site a bit but it still gets regular hits from new visitors. I am sure if Dave or anyone wishes to use some of the information I have no objections, equally it would be good to get the site more up todate. The biggest problem I found was to get owners to put their thoughts down in words, I did not mind how it was sent to me as I could edit and make constructive alterations for a better layout for web page use. Anyway I wish you luck and if I can be of help in any way give me a call. Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rob Posted June 1, 2011 Report Share Posted June 1, 2011 Jim, Tom is after an opportunity to speak to skippers who have not just owned their boat for a few years, but used them!!! I'll bring a big stick to the meeting and Bash you with it Rob. Or maybe I'll just spill beer over you. Jim Jim, You won't spill a beer on purpose! So, the stick it is!!! Rob Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Oli Posted June 1, 2011 Report Share Posted June 1, 2011 You are welcome on-board my Arvor. However, having sold some you should by now be aware of all the problems associated with them as well as all the benefits of ownership! Neal Welcome on ours too Tom - I'm sure between Neal and I we can get a nice long list of pros and cons! Oli Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
charlieannear Posted June 1, 2011 Report Share Posted June 1, 2011 Well the Shetland Family Four is still available new and readily available second hand at a wide range of budgets... I'm game if you are! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ChrisE Posted June 7, 2011 Report Share Posted June 7, 2011 (edited) Brilliant response guys, please keep it coming. At thus rate is going to take a while to get them all done as it has to be on my days off, but it could be a great set of real boat tests that people can use as a future reference. Chris, it doesn't have to be a boat in production, but does need to be readily available on the used market if not available new. Used is good as we can produce a buyers guide too... Tom. Thanks for your swift reply, I'm a bit slower as work is getting in the way... Very happy yo have mine reviewed, I don't think that a huge number of Orcadian 23s were built but it might be interesting as it is the forerunner of the Orkey Day Angler series. Let me know if you want to proceed. Chris Edited June 7, 2011 by ChrisE Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
codpiece Posted June 7, 2011 Report Share Posted June 7, 2011 Tom, Cant keep up with the speed boys but if you want to look at my 16ft..8knot Orkney longliner you are welcome, not to insult your inteligence,you did say any boat? and she is the sort of craft open to the ordinary pocket. Derek,V. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
alfie Posted June 8, 2011 Report Share Posted June 8, 2011 Took charge last November of a New Quicksilver 640 bought at Southampton boat show. Had the new Mercury 125 Optimax engine fitted. Have learnt alot since buying the boat and could have researched more knowing what I know now. Will share knowledge and answer questions. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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