I have an 8' Zodiac Cadet 240 aluminum hull PVC RIB. Up here in Rhode Island, PVC works just fine. Monthly wipes with 303 Marine Protectant takes care of any UV issues, conditions the PVC, and helps to repel stains. Follow the 303 directions, wipe it dry, and no icky-stickies. At the end of the season, I use Marykate inflatable cleaner. Underway, I carry the RIB tilted and lashed to the swim platform. I go bow-in into my slip, and I keep the RIB in the water ahead of my bow, and only take it out if cruising . My slip is in a fresh water river so barnacles and other sea growth is not an issue, but I get a pretty good brackish water stain on sections of the hull and rear tubes. I'll pull the RIB periodically to clean the bottom. Where the hull and tubes contact the water at rest, I'll apply Aquagard inflatable bottom coating. I'm using a 2 HP Honda outboard, which is OK, but if you want to get this thing up on plane, a bigger engine is required. This RIB's rated max engine is 6HP. And don't think you can row it. Like most small RIB's, oars are too short and it's like rowing a big beach ball.