Buying a Ranger 21 EC

[corrinecorry]

I am thinking of buying a Ranger 21 EC, 2009. I will be new to the Ranger Tug. I live in Desolation Sound: Refuge Cove, BC, Canada. I need to be able to frequently cross Lewis Channel ( Refuge Cove to Squirrel Cove) in rough water (crossing the waves). I am a worried that the 21 EC is a little light for this task and that the gunnels are low. Does anyone have experience with this boat who could advise me about the stability/ability of the 21 EC in these conditions? I would love to hear from you. Thank you in advance.

 

[Texas Steve]

The R21-EC would be worthy of consideration. I can't say I'm familiar with the particular body of water you're referencing, but these little tugs can handle a variety of sea conditions. We've learned that a beam sea is not pleasant, but the solution is to quarter into the waves and adjust your speed to a comfortable level. A similar tactic to tacking in a sailboat. I'm sure you'll attract a lot of advice from others that have more knowledge of those particular waters.

Texas Steve

 

[corrinecorry]

The R21-EC would be worthy of consideration. I can't say I'm familiar with the particular body of water you're referencing, but these little tugs can handle a variety of sea conditions. We've learned that a beam sea is not pleasant, but the solution is to quarter into the waves and adjust your speed to a comfortable level. A similar tactic to tacking in a sailboat. I'm sure you'll attract a lot of advice from others that have more knowledge of those particular waters.

Texas Steve

Thanks Texas Steve. I am seriously considering this boat. I have had another which I have had good succes with the tacking maneuver and I see lots of good reports about the Rangers in rough water.
It would be good to hear from others with knowledge of a bean sea.
I am seriously considering this Ranger 21 EC.

 

[corrinecorry]

The R21-EC would be worthy of consideration. I can't say I'm familiar with the particular body of water you're referencing, but these little tugs can handle a variety of sea conditions. We've learned that a beam sea is not pleasant, but the solution is to quarter into the waves and adjust your speed to a comfortable level. A similar tactic to tacking in a sailboat. I'm sure you'll attract a lot of advice from others that have more knowledge of those particular waters.

Texas Steve

Thanks Texas Steve. I am seriously considering this boat. I have had another which I have had good succes with the tacking maneuver and I see lots of good reports about the Rangers in rough water.
It would be good to hear from others with knowledge of a bean sea.
I am seriously considering this Ranger 21 EC.
I just read my above submission - a glass of wine has a serious impact. Corrine

 

[ogger]

I do not know the waters but I live adjacent to Gage Roads Fremantle West Australia. The 19 km crossing to Rottnest, a resort island can be very rough - seas to 2 m on a swell to 2 m. I would not take the EC21 out on such rough days but have taken it out without troubles on seas well above the pulpit. Beam seas are an issue whatever the boat size and quartering is the standard response - and a good one. I find that although the EC 21 is relatively narrow, because of the engine's position, the centre of gravity is quite low. As a result rolling is within acceptable limits. Much depends on wave distance. Overall the tug is a great little sea boat but like every other craft, has its limits.
Ogger

 

[corrinecorry]

I do not know the waters but I live adjacent to Gage Roads Fremantle West Australia. The 19 km crossing to Rottnest, a resort island can be very rough - seas to 2 m on a swell to 2 m. I would not take the EC21 out on such rough days but have taken it out without troubles on seas well above the pulpit. Beam seas are an issue whatever the boat size and quartering is the standard response - and a good one. I find that although the EC 21 is relatively narrow, because of the engine's position, the centre of gravity is quite low. As a result rolling is within acceptable limits. Much depends on wave distance. Overall the tug is a great little sea boat but like every other craft, has its limits.
Ogger

Again, Thank you for the response. This helps.

 

[Kamalani]

We operate our R-21 EC in the Santa Barbara Channel off California. Wind chop and moderate to large swell are commonplace here. For example, today I looked forward to time on the ocean, but conditions forced me to return to the harbor or endure a good soaking. If you are prepared to secure yourself in the wheelhouse and plow through the waves at a close angle, you can rest assured that the boat will get you there. However, the light displacement and low hp can result in a rather uncomfortable ride. If such conditions were the norm for your area I would reconsider, but if you will usually enjoy calm seas and lighter winds, the R-21 will not only get you there, but do it with class. Even drenched with sea water, she always looks great!

 

[corrinecorry]

I took the R21 EC out for a sea trial and loved it. I am now the proud owner of the Wende, named after the woman who left me the money in her will. I will stay in contact with this forum and Wende will be at Refuge Cove, BC as of next week.
Thank you for the comments. They helped make this exciting change in my life.

 

[Bruce Moore]

Nice. Welcome Wende.

 

[Kamalani]

Corrine - congratulations on your good fortune and great taste. I hope you come to love "Wende" as much as we love "Kamalani". Kamalani is my wife Sherry's boat, and has been a wonderful platform for her to gain experience and confidence, all the while knowing she's lookin' good. Hope you will post some pix of your boat and boating area.
Alex, "Kamalani"