Why buy a RIB boat ? Benefits
Are you a lover of nautical outings and considering taking the plunge by acquiring your own boat ?
While of course you can make the choice to opt for a sailing boat, today it's motor boats we'll be talking about, and more specifically Zodiac type models, namely so-called " RIB " hull boats, as opposed to " rigid " hull models.
While not exactly inflatable boats, RIB craft do feature air-inflated tube tubes, often very easily maneuverable and versatile, enabling all types of marine activities : water sports, fishing, diving, yachting and mini cruises.
But what exactly are the advantages of these RIB boats, and why choose them over rigid-hull models ? Our answers in this article.
Advantage 1: Sizing and equipment choices
First, let's bust a myth : yes, a RIB boat can be luxurious, feature many amenities, and embark a significant number of passengers.
Ordinarily, when we picture a Zodiac-type boat, we imagine a craft that's certainly " fun " but somewhat modest, accommodating 2 or 3 people, or with limited functions.
In reality, this is not the case ! In this regard, we invite you to read our article on the best RIB boat models.
You'll discover that prices for RIB boats can reach considerable sums, with top-of-the-range services and equipment, such as cabins, sanitary facilities, complete state-of-the-art electronic equipment, modular decks, sunbathing areas, kitchenettes and plenty of storage space.
RIB inflatable boats also accommodate up to 20 passengers comfortably.
In short, there are hundreds of models on the market to discover, for every taste and every budget.
Advantage 2: Maneuverability, responsiveness, speed
Because of its light weight, a RIB boat is ideal for maneuvering in cramped environments, especially in ports. This makes it an ideal choice especially for beginners, but not only !
It's no coincidence that rescue workers at sea, diving clubs, firefighters or coastguards are often seen at the helm of RIB boats : their qualities of maneuverability and responsiveness are immense.
And this " light " weight doesn't prevent RIB boats from carrying one or more very powerful engines. Again, make no mistake : if you're a fan of speed, you'll have plenty of fun with a RIB boat !
Beware, however, that this lightness (even if, once again, this is relative to the model chosen) implies a sometimes treacherous wind grip not suitable for rough seas, especially when it comes to models under 6.5 meters.
Advantage 3: Buoyancy
Again, it may seem counterintuitive, especially after what has been said previously, but RIB boats enjoy much better buoyancy than rigid-hull models!
Because in reality, a RIB behaves on the water a bit like a catamaran, i.e. all the time plastered to the water with the inflatable bladders.
This ensures good stability and prevents you from getting wet unintentionally. This is also due to their lower center of gravity than rigid-hull models, so it's virtually impossible to capsize with a RIB boat. This lower center of gravity also makes RIB boats ideal for launching divers.
Advantage 4: Strength and durability
Here too, RIB boats will surprise you, because in reality, in many configurations, they prove more resistant than rigid models. The bladders, while they can of course burst, are in truth very strong and, unlike rigid boats, they can absorb shocks. In fact, most ribs are fitted with a pressure relief valve to prevent a dangerous increase in tube rupture pressure.
In the event of a measured impact, the bladders will therefore be able to absorb the impact, whereas a rigid shell (often made of fiberglass) will be irreparably affected in its structure.
You can also easily buy resistant fabric to repair or reinforce your flanges.
All in all, the maintenance of a RIB boat is relatively easy, and doesn't require any particular investment if you do the minimum on every outing.
Advantage 5 : Transport
With the advantage of a lighter weight than a rigid hull - 760 kg for a 6 m vs. 1,020 kg for a rigid hull of the same size, the RIB is more easily transportable.
Remember that to be transported on a trailer, a boat must not exceed a width of 2.55 m. But as long as it's possible to deflate and disassemble your tubes, you can actually own a boat wider than this limit and still be able to tow it wherever you want.
The other consequence of this is that launching also becomes easier. For more information on this point, see our article on la mise en eau de bateaux RIBes.
Avantage 6 : Price
If you want to treat yourself once again, with a RIB boat you have the opportunity to treat yourself to a very high-end product.
But one of the definite advantages concerning RIB boats is that they are in the entry-level range of craft at very affordable prices, starting at 10.000 only! And for even more savings and bargains, read our article on the best sites to buy a used RIB.
Conclusion
RIB boats are competitive in many respects and offer novel advantages compared with traditional rigid-hull models.
Take the time to study the features of the various models offered by the plethora of manufacturers on the market, and you're sure and certain to get satisfaction!
Orca Retail is there to guarantee the maintenance of your future RIB boat, whether it's maintenance kits or repair fabrics for your tubes.
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