Rolling like a Willard/Vega

[ronnmaui]

I have been watching a lot of videos and reading about Ranger Tugs and their various sizes and would love to own one someday in the NW. My parents owned a Vega 36 made by Willard in the early 1980's and we use to cross the channel to Catalina in all conditions night or day, and even though the boat could take the 6-10' seas, it rolled like nothing I have ever experienced. When I would bring girl friends for a weekends they would always get sick the whole trip. Even my wife who grew up around boats could not believe how that damn boat rolled. My main concern is, does the Ranger Tugs have that same rolling characteristic as the Vega's? I know the hull design is different and weight is different but can anyone comment on the rolling of the different models of the Ranger Tugs before I get too excited. I know the beams range from 8 to 10 feet on the Ranger's and the keel and center of gravity are different, but I would love to get some input from owners about this one aspect so I don't make a big mistake. When I was young I personally loved the rolling and heavy seas in the channel but as I am in my 60's now, I'm not sure I feel the same way. Love to hear from you.

 

[YukonRon]

The Willard Vega is known for its roll because it is a full displacement, rounded hull. The Ranger Tugs are a semi- displacement hull, flattening out toward the stern, which has much less roll. And if I'm not mistaken, the newer outboard models lean even more toward a planing style hull.
I would recommend finding a dealer or owner willing to take you for a test ride so you can compare for yourself.

 

[BradOwens]

You may want to consider chartering a Ranger Tug for a week to really get a feel for the comfort level. There are several available from Anacortes Yacht Charters, in Anacortes, Washington.