Steve,

We were talking to a Porta-Bote factory rep at an RV show and he said the
12' model out sold everything but we did not hear why. I would imagine that
it is because they are not much more to haul around and can hold two people
very well.

He gave me a toll free number where you can call the factory and mention his
name and get a better deal. The factory is in Mountain View, California
which is somewhere near San Francisco.

Call: 1-800-227-8882 and mention his name, "Jim Whitelaw" and they will
give you a special factory direct price.

He said that they sell a few 8' models to wildlife photographers because
they are lighter and hold one person well.

--
Bill Kiene

Kiene's Fly Shop
Sacramento, CA
www.kiene.com

"Steve" wrote in message
...

"Bill Kiene" wrote:

Looking for a small row/motor boat, mostly to mess around in Lake
Washington, Seattle area. Porta-Bote makes an 8.6 foot model,
wondering if this is too small for two people. Nice to have lighter
weight and shorter length for storage, but maybe the 10.8 foot or 12.6
foot boat would be more practical or handle significantly better?

Anything comparable to the Porta-Bote that might be worth looking at?
Or maybe there's a portable kayak/motor boat out there?

It comes in 8, 10 and 12 feet but most buy the 12 ' model. I have read a
lot
about them and seen lots of them on the side of RVs. I read that they
work
well with a 6hp, 57# Nisson/Tahatsu 4 stroke outboard. I did read that it
take a little time to get use to the soft floor. It does take a little
time
to put together.

Thanks Bill. Any elaboration on why the 12 footer might be a better
choice? Hate to trade off the size and weight if I don't have to...