How many are using their AR195 in Salt Water?

[NJ-JetGuy]

Have a home at The Jersey Shore in Brigantine NJ. Looking for a boat the kids, friends and family can enjoy for some back bay tubing, cruising and swimming and the occasional calm day ocean ride.

How do they run, handle and hold up in salt water, especially if a little choppy? Any regrets not getting an AR210?

Thanks

 

[Dean P]

I ran mine in salt water for 3 years. No problems, you just have to rinse/wash the boat (like you normally would) and flush after every use. I added trim tabs to help with chop. I upgraded last year to a 22; twin 250s, little bit more room, HP, top end and longer range. If you can afford it buy your second boat first.

Welcome to the forum !!! Lots of good info and members here to help keep you safe and on the water. Good luck and let us know how we can help.

 

[Andy NJ]

I have a 242 and spend our time where you are describing. I've never been in the 19, but, except for those exceptionally windy days, it's not too bad on the back side of the Brigantine, AC, and LBI. Sometimes I'm limited going ocean side. Depends on tides and wind. Maybe we'll see you out there.

 

[scubasteve87]

I have an SX195 that I use in and around Long Island. It actually handles chop way better than I anticipated when I bought it. Obviously if you're in anything more than consistent 3' seas its going to be rough, but the boat does reasonably well with the bow up in that 15-25mph range (just before or on plane).

I do find sitting on the flip up bolster in rougher seas to be more painful than anticipated despite the added benefit of visibility. Wash/Flush like stated above and you should be fine.

 

[Dean P]

I do find sitting on the flip up bolster in rougher seas to be more painful than anticipated despite the added benefit of visibility. Wash/Flush like stated above and you should be fine.

My bolster is always up. I like (need) to see what's coming. My knees are slightly bent which act like shock absorbers. Sitting flat on the seat send every bump and bang straight up my back.

 

[gsbrown]

I bring my 195 to the shore for a week each year. Last year we did Ocean City MD and this year West Wildwood NJ. It handles just fine in the bay. I wouldn't take it out if there's a small craft warning, but a normal day is fine. Took it out into the ocean last week for the first time near the Cape May and found a pod of dolphins. That was cool. The ocean swell was a little intimidating but by the time we headed back we were cruising at about 25-30mph. without any problems.

 

[scubasteve87]

My bolster is always up. I like (need) to see what's coming. My knees are slightly bent which act like shock absorbers. Sitting flat on the seat send every bump and bang straight up my back.

Maybe its my personally preference, but being a shorter person (5'7" on a good day) I just can't find a sweet spot even bending my knees. Sitting down for me is a bit more comfortable once on plane and moving pretty good. I really don't feel like I lose visibility that much. Around the dock is a different story but other wise I'm usually sitting in the seat.

 

[Gunner]

Instead of the bolster I use two throw cushions on the seat, seems more comfortable. I can't sit just on the seat because I feel like I'm sitting on the floor.

 

[dshscarab]

I use my AR195 99.9% of the time in salt water. I flush it out and wash it down after every single use. I also have been using Salt A-Way after just for extra insurance.