The American engine manufacturer offers a complete range of tyres. Models ranging from 2.20 m to 4.90 m long and available with any type of bottom: wooden or aluminium floor, inflatable or even rigid polyester bottom.
We had the opportunity to test the Ocean Runner 420 model, a 4.20 m semi-rigid (the Ocean Runner range goes from 2.90 to 4.60 m). This model is considered at Mercury as a small pleasure craft or as a dinghy. In fact, with a 4.20 m RIB, you can start taking the whole family on board (max. 8 people) and motorize it properly (max. 40 hp) to face the sea.
This rather marked V hull goes well in the small chop we encountered off La Rochelle. We tested the Ocean Runner 420 equipped with a jockey console. This RIB can either be completely empty (it receives a tiller engine) or have a classic center console (with a 2-seater seat behind). Third option, the Jockey console is well suited for those who want to play with the boat a little. Indeed, well camped on his legs, you don't risk to be ejected and you can start to wedge the handle in the corner.
For use as a dinghy - this boat can be found on the davits of a large speedboat or catamaran - the boat is equipped with four attachment points to receive the pannels and take it out of the water. Two attachment points are on the transom, while the other two are at the bow aft of the locker.
On the storage side, there's a small front trunk that can easily hold a mooring. As for the wet nurse, she can be stored in the console (when this option is chosen) or remain on deck.
The grey sails are quite bulky and it is not common to get watered even when sailing fast. We tested this Ocean Runner 430 with the new 20hp EFI (fuel injection). With this power (mini for a boat that can handle 40 hp), the behaviour is still very healthy and the pilot does not get overwhelmed. We were able to reach a maximum speed of 22 knots.
However, the Ocean Runner 420 remains a player in this configuration with only one person on board. For a larger crew, a larger engine would be advisable.
This Ocean Runner 420 is available in PVC and hypalon (count about 1000 euros more for hypalon socks). In the configuration of our trial (jockey console, PVC and 20 hp EFI), the Ocean Runner costs 8825 euros (9720 euros with the 30 hp). Really affordable prices for those who want to start going out at sea and do their training on an accessible and easy boat.
