The best accessories for RIB boats
Whether used as tenders or not, rigid inflatable boats shine for their versatility. In our article "Why buy a RIB boat?", we already talked about the qualities of these lightweight, surprisingly high-performance craft, such as their great buoyancy, ease of handling and transport, durability and price.
But if the model of a boat matters as to the nature of the sea outings you'll be taking, the equipment or accessories you choose are just as decisive.
In this article, Orca Retail advises you on all the best accessories and equipment to own to make the most of your inflatable boat's potential.
Fishing in RIB boats
RIB boats are well suited to fishing activities. With a lower waterline than rigid-hulled boats, fishing-loving passengers are both closer to the action but also enjoy more stability.
The first thing to plan for, of course, are fishing rods ! And for added convenience of use or to enjoy a bit of farniente, investing in one or more rod holders (also known as rateliers) seems the B.A-BA. There are many different models to choose from: built-in, self-mounting, with or without a protective cap (to prevent rust inside the cane holder), swiveling or non-swiveling to change axis, etc. For a standard cane holder, expect to pay between €15 and €60.
Real anglers won't forget to also invest in a lure stand or bait stand, either attachable or suction cup system, to keep their accessories close at hand.
Depending on your fishing style, you may or may not opt to purchase a troll, ideal for mackerel fishing in particular, and if you want to take advantage of the wind and a little movement during your session !
A set of knives for shucking or even lifting fillets may prove interesting to keep your sailors or other budding cooks busy enjoying their catch directly (and discarding the unwanted parts at sea rather than in the trash !). When it comes to cooking, there are many options for kitchen accessories that you can take on board your RIB.
You'll find stoves, planchas, BBQs or even small kitchenettes to enjoy freshly caught fish directly (not forgetting mini-fridges or an icebox for quenching your thirst).
And when it comes to dining, some modular RIBs allow you to switch from an aft deck configuration to a seating + table set, ideal for sharing a meal in complete conviviality.
Naturally, we also recommend investing in a glacial or any other container that can hold fish. As RIB boats are once again close to the water, you're not safe from escape attempts if you simply put your catch in the boat !
For fishing trips that last, don't forget to protect yourself from the sun! Having a taud mounted on your RIB seems the best solution, otherwise, think about chef covers to avoid unpleasant surprises and sunstroke !
Last tip, and even though we've already planned a good array of accessories, try not to overload your inflatable boat too much with bulky equipment for your fishing trips so you can get around easily, especially if there are a lot of you.
Relax
If your ambition is rather to enjoy the sun and the sea to sunbathe, contemplate the horizon and more generally relax, here are which accessories are a must for your RIB :
- Bathing decks : most often located aft, bathing decks are modular spaces that fill the space between bench seats (by means of an adjustable table, for example) to offer a relaxation surface a little like a tatami, able to accommodate several people. The bathing beaches are perfect for sunbathing and napping. You'll also need a few cushions (traditional or inflatable) to complete the package.
- Ladder : virtually indispensable for getting swimmers in and out of the water, make sure you choose a model that will be easy for everyone to use (with enough height underwater, for example). Rope or rigid, telescopic, retractable, foldable or from a trunk, the possibilities are vast.
- Showerhead : if you want to get rid of salt after swimming, showerheads are a must ! Coupled with a clear water tank, shower kits are available at a wide range of prices, depending on finish, discretion, length, etc.
- WC marine : for optimum passenger comfort and if the size of your RIB allows.
- A radio or speakers : nothing's nicer than a little music to relax or party to on a boat !
- Awnings, parasols, bimini : in short, enough here too to protect you adequately in case of bad weather or a sunstorm.
- Navy dinnerware : unbreakable to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Water sports
Are you more of a thrill seeker ? No problem ! With their excellent acceleration and maneuverability, RIB boats are ideal for sports such as waterskiing, wakeboarding, or any other towable accessory (buoy, banana boat). So what accessories do you need for RIB water sports ?
- Wakeboard, skis, buoys, bananas (or hot dogs), or other boards, of course.
- Some pulling rope with a spreader bar (to hold with your hands) of course, to reattach you to the boat. Most water sports ropes are buoyant, so make sure this is the case.
- A ski pull ring / mooring system / hook / mast to secure rope attachment.
- A mirror : very important ! In fact, your RIB boat may not be equipped with one by default, or it may not give you good enough visibility. Keeping an eye on what's going on behind you at all times is essential for the safety of sporting activities where people are being dragged.
- Safety equipment : life jackets, buoys, spare ropes, first-aid kit for bad falls etc.
- A inflator (foot or electric) for equipment such as buoys, and a few patches in case of snags or punctures.
For diving
RIB boats are closer to the water, making them ideal platforms for divers. Fins, masks, snorkels are obviously a must for fans of " snorkeling ". We also recommend buying waterproof bags or pouches if you want to protect fragile items or, for example, take photos underwater.
Having a tubeing rope is always welcome, especially in configurations with current so divers don't pull your away from the boat.
If you prefer deep diving, you'll of course need oxygen cylinders with regulators, but flashlights are also recommended in gloomy weather or after a few dozen meters of depth.
As for harpoon guns, they'll let you enjoy the pleasures of underwater hunting !
Finally, all the ordinary necessities for diver safety must also be provided (for calling emergencies in particular).
All-weather :
Beyond all the accessories listed above, a number of other RIB equipment or accessories will be useful or even vital to you. Whether it's simple living comfort or safety, here's what you'll need :
- Sea wear (life jackets) and buoys
- Handrails : for larger models, to make moving around on board easier.
- Marine fire extinguishers
- Calle pumps to prevent taking on water.
- Réservoirs souples
- GPS
- Fusées éclairantes
- Safety lights and lighting
- Cigarette lighter sockets for recharging your phones or other (or transportable batteries)
- Baromètre
- Compas, boussoles
- Jumelles
En extra :
There are a host of other accessories allowing you to personalize your RIB and the activities it lets you do. Here are the ones that can make a difference :
- Solar panels or mini wind turbines to generate extra power (+ batteries)
- Purificateurs d’eau
- Plumbing (sinks, marine WCs...)
- Bridgeways (for easier embarkation and disembarkation)
- Téléviseurs
- Couchages
- Essuie-glaces
- Fender beams
- Flags and flags
And there you have it, now you know all about the equipment and accessories you need for your RIB sea trips!"
Are you passionate about boating and RIB boats?
Discover our RIB boat care products:
- Neoprene fabrics for tube tube repair
- Inflatable boat cleaner
- Mold remover for inflatable boat
- Wax for inflatable boat
- Inflatable boat glue
- Flexible fuel and water tanks
- Radge belts
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