[Bailey James]

Satisfied R18/19/20 owners?

Hello again…

…just posted a question about engine options for a potential new purchase…a 2010 R19.9.

I love the look, layout, and “extras” on this boat, especially for the money.
…I took a test drive and it handled great in some choppy water. I really think I want this boat...

On appearance alone it’s almost a no-brainer….but after reading through the forum here and some other sites, I’m not seeing many posts that are giving me a great deal of confidence about making this purchase (a lot of “the new Mariah ain’t the old Mariah”). There seems to be some lingering quality concerns for newer Mariahs? Things like deck cracking, loose screws, flip-up transom walk through doesn’t stay closed…But I’ve also heard since 2008, with the new R-series, things have improved.

So I’d love to hear from some actual owners of 2008-2010 R18.9-20.9 models (or other knowledgeable folks) that might chime in on their experience! Anyone out there that still has that “woohoo” feeling after 6 months, 1 yr, 2 yrs?

Thanks in advance!

<> Bailey

ps I did see Boating World’s review of the R19.9 (Alan Jones/March, 2009) – they gave it a positive review…but I’d like to hear from folks who’ve had the boat long enough to see how it holds up.

[OscarVB]

Bailey,

Can't tell you yet - I've owned my 2010 R18.9 (4.3L 190 HP) for less than 2 weeks. Loved the first (and only) 2 cruises I've taken on her, for what it's worth. But I'll try to keep you posted about anything major over the rest of this summer season.

Good luck to you with your decision.

-OscarVB
(Mike)

[Bailey James]

Thanks OscarVB - hope you remain happy! We're getting close to taking the Mariah plunge with you ...although I was hoping for a few more enthusiastic responses here in the forum ;-)

[USN_EWC(Ret)]

Bailey,
We purchased an R18.9 back in May and have about 20 hours on it now. We have had no issues with it other than the idle was set a little low. Fixed by the marina where we bought it. Everything is solid and well put together. I think you can rest assured that you are getting a quality boat!

[E andJRX19]

i bought 2009 mariah and I am very happy. There were minor issues but I put almost 100 hours in 3 months!

[Bailey James]

Hello..appreciate the comments ... (meant to post back here a little sooner!)

We ended up taking the plunge and went with an 2011 R20 (4.3L MPI), which I bought last summer.
So far, so good! Can't wait 'till things start warming up!