The Ultimate Rib Boat Guide: Choosing The Best

Rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) are ideal for beginners due to their safety, practicality, and ease of berthing. They are now also used as family boats for picnics, day trips, and watersports. When it comes to choosing the best RIB, there are various factors to consider, such as size, weight, durability, and price. Here is a list of some of the top RIBs in the market:

- BRIG Eagle 8: Awarded the 2020 Motor Boat Award for its well-thought-out design and classy detailing. It offers a spacious and sociable layout with a removable table, making it perfect for anchoring.

- Agapi 800: One of the most versatile compact cruising RIBs, offering day space for ten people and sleeping accommodations for four. It also has the option of adding a carbon-fibre T-top and a mini galley.

- Highfield Sport 800: Features a brand new stepped hull designed by Norwegian performance boat designer Petter Martens, making it a great option for offshore use. It also has a stylish and well-designed cockpit with convertible seating.

- Cobra Nautique 9.2m: A highly customisable RIB with various layout options, colour schemes, and optional extras. It has an impressive top speed of 60 knots with twin 300hp Mercury Verado outboards.

- Sacs Marine Strider 10: This RIB can entertain up to 16 people and combines Italian aesthetic with Mediterranean-style open boating luxuries and traditional offshore ability. It offers ample cockpit seating, sunbathing spaces, and an optional toilet.

- Williams SportJet 520: Designed for yachts over 30m, this RIB can also function as a comfortable and fast day boat with a capacity of seven people. It has a powerful 200hp BRP Rotax engine and excellent watersports features, including back-to-back seating and an integrated ski pole.

Aluminium vs GRP hulls

Aluminium and GRP (fibreglass) are two materials used for hulls in RIB boats. Both have their pros and cons, and the right choice depends on the size of the yacht and where you plan to cruise.

GRP is lighter and stronger than aluminium, meaning less material is needed to achieve the same strength and stiffness. It can also be precisely optimised for any part of the hull, and it is more resistant to corrosion. However, GRP hulls are more vulnerable to puncture and abrasion than aluminium hulls.

Aluminium hulls are very tough and light, but they are more expensive and labour-intensive to produce. They are also more vulnerable to galvanic corrosion and can crack at the welds. The material is also a better conductor of heat, meaning more insulation is required to maintain a comfortable temperature inside the boat.

In terms of repair, GRP is easier to fix than aluminium. Fibreglass mat, resin, and catalyst can be carried on board, and repairs can often be carried out in less than an hour. On the other hand, repairing an aluminium hull requires removing the surrounding interior and insulation to minimise the risk of fire, sourcing the right grade of aluminium, and finding someone with the knowledge and equipment to carry out the repair.

When it comes to aesthetics, the battleship grey of bare aluminium is not considered very attractive. Painting it is difficult and expensive, and most aluminium boat builders do not recommend it. GRP hulls, on the other hand, can be customised with gel coats in various colours, and any cracks or scratches can be easily repaired at a relatively low cost.

Hypalon vs PVC fabric

When it comes to choosing the fabric for your RIB (rigid inflatable boat), you'll likely be choosing between PVC and Hypalon. Both materials have their own unique advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and use case.

Hypalon

Hypalon is a type of rubber that is known for its durability and strength. It is often chosen for its UV resistance, making it ideal for use in sunny regions or when the boat is exposed to the sun for long periods. Hypalon is also resistant to chemicals and stable against UV-rays. However, it is more expensive and requires special care during assembly, as it must be glued by hand and cannot be heat-welded.

PVC

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a widely used alternative to Hypalon and is known for its competitive price. It is a lightweight material that is easy to maintain, repair, and replace. PVC is a good choice for occasional use or if you store your boat under cover, as it can stand the test of time with proper maintenance. However, in extreme temperature conditions, PVC may melt and lose its structure.

Key Differences

The choice between Hypalon and PVC depends on several factors, including climate, intended use, and budget. Hypalon is better suited for professional or frequent use, while PVC is more suitable for recreational or occasional use. Hypalon is more expensive and requires more complex assembly, whereas PVC is easier to maintain and repair. Additionally, Hypalon is known for its UV resistance, while PVC may be more susceptible to heat damage.

In summary, both Hypalon and PVC have their advantages, and the best choice depends on your specific needs. Consider factors such as climate, frequency of use, and budget when making your decision.

Single-skin vs double-floor

When it comes to choosing the best RIB, there are several factors to consider, including size, weight, hull material, and floor type. One important decision is whether to go with a single-skin or double-floor RIB. Here are some key points to help you make an informed choice:

Single-skin RIBs are characterised by a design where the occupants walk on the inside of the hull bottom. They are typically lighter than double-floor RIBs, sometimes by as much as 10-20%. This makes them easier to tow and handle, especially in rough passages. However, one of their main drawbacks is that they don't handle rough water well and are more prone to flipping. Single-skin RIBs also lack a storage locker in the bow and tend to accumulate bilge water, resulting in wet feet and cargo.

On the other hand, double-floor RIBs feature a flat interior floor and a sump or bilge area to collect water and spray. This design provides a stable and dry platform, making it more suitable for temperate climates and activities like diving. However, the flat floor comes at a weight penalty, making the boat heavier and potentially more challenging to transport and store.

Another variation of the single-skin design is the folding RIB, which has a transom that folds over for storage. These boats are extremely compact when deflated, making them ideal for weekend cruising or situations where storage space is limited.

When deciding between a single-skin and double-floor RIB, consider your intended use and cruising range. If you plan to cruise for longer periods and need a dinghy that can withstand frequent use, a double-floor RIB might be a better option. On the other hand, if you prioritise lightweight and manoeuvrability, a single-skin RIB or a folding variant could be a good choice.

In addition to the floor type, other factors to consider when choosing a RIB include the hull material (aluminium, fiberglass, or polypropylene), tube material (Hypalon, PVC, or PU), and the size and power of the outboard motor.

Inflatable vs rigid

RIB boats, or rigid inflatable boats, are constructed with a rigid hull bottom and air-inflated tubes along the sides. They are known for being stable, light, fast, and seaworthy. The inflated collar acts as a life jacket, ensuring the vessel retains its buoyancy even if the boat is taking on water.

Inflatable boats are often used as tenders, which are smaller boats that are carried or towed by a larger vessel. They are ideal for picnics, day trips, watersports, and short cruises. Inflatable boats are more stable than all-inflatable boats and can carry more passengers and gear. They are also sturdier for activities such as diving or water sports.

RIB boats are commonly used as rescue craft, safety boats for sailing, dive boats, or tenders for larger boats and ships. They are also popular for military use, as work boats, and for scuba diving. Their shallow draught, high manoeuvrability, speed, and ability to withstand damage in low-speed collisions make them ideal for these applications.

The tubes of RIB boats are usually made of Hypalon or PVC, though some manufacturers use PU. Hypalon tubes can last up to twice as long as PVC tubes and have been known to last over 20 years. PVC tubes, on the other hand, are cheaper and can last approximately 10-15 years.

When it comes to choosing between an inflatable boat and a RIB boat, it's important to consider the intended use and specific needs. Inflatable boats are more portable and compact, while RIB boats offer more space and comfort for passengers. RIB boats are also more durable and can handle rougher seas. However, inflatable boats are more affordable and easier to maintain. Ultimately, the decision depends on the user's budget, intended use, and personal preferences.

Engine power

The BRIG Eagle 8, which won the 2020 Motor Boat Award, is equipped with a single 300-350 hp engine, delivering a top speed of 50 knots. The Agapi 800, one of the most versatile compact cruising RIBs, offers a range of engine options, from 200-300 hp, allowing it to reach speeds of up to 50 knots.

For those seeking extreme performance, the Cobra Nautique 9.2m with twin 300 hp Mercury Verado outboards can comfortably reach speeds exceeding 60 knots. The Highfield Sport 800, designed by Norwegian performance boat designer Petter Martens, is powered by a single 250-300 hp outboard engine, enabling it to attain speeds of up to 45 knots.

If you're looking for a more affordable option without compromising on quality, the Zodiac Medline 9 is equipped with twin 350 hp outboards, capable of reaching speeds greater than 65 mph, while the Novurania DL 430, ideal for exploring local bays and islands, is powered by a Yamaha outboard engine of up to 70 hp.

When choosing the right RIB boat, it's essential to consider your intended use, budget, and desired level of performance to make an informed decision about engine power and overall suitability.

Frequently asked questions