So, you’ve finally decided to buy your first boat. But you’re still hesitant between a traditional rigid-hulled boat and a rigid inflatable boat (RIB), commonly known as a “zodiac”. As a reminder, a RIB is the combination of a rigid hull and inflatable tubes (Hypalon or PVC) providing lightness and stability. In this article, we’ll put an end to your questions and present the 5 main advantages of Rigid Inflatable Boats.
1) Manoeuvrability and behaviour at sea
Choosing a RIB means opting for simplicity without compromising on safety. It’s a great option for new sailors who want to play Captain once they’ve got their coastal licence. It’s fun, easy to manoeuvre and you’ll quickly get the hang of it. Their very low centre of gravity gives them great stability, and the pneumatic tubes that surround them maximise their buoyancy. They are the ones that absorbs the impacts, making it much easier to get the hang of your first outings on the water.
You’ll have noticed that RIBs are also widely used for professional and military purposes (sea rescuers, customs, Navy, etc.). The advantages are the same: an agile, fast and easily deployable craft. This allows for quick intervention in any situation, whether to apprehend another vessel or to rescue boaters in distress.
At your level, this will make docking manoeuvres and approaches in tricky or difficult areas easier. Don’t forget that these boats have no keel, so they’ll be your best ally in shallow waters. It’s easier to get to that dream beach and sip a mojito!
2) They are lightweight and easily transportable
RIBs are very light compared to rigid-hulled boats. Their main advantage in this regard is that they can be towed relatively easily.
Highfield, which recently updated its Sport 560, has done an excellent job optimizing its onboard space. This is a perfect example of a rigid inflatable boat offering ample space while remaining compact and easy for beginners to handle. The boat measures 5.86 meters in length and weighs 682 kilograms. Most rigid-hull boats of this size easily approach one ton. Naturally, the weight-to-power ratio will not be the same for the two types of boats, nor will the fuel consumption. It makes a significant difference!
After a few first attempts at getting the boat in and out of the water, you’ll soon become comfortable with this maneuver.
3) There’s something for everyone
RIBs offer a maximum level of customisation, and there’s a model to suit everyone. Length, interior layout, colour of upholstery and finish of the tubes are all elements to consider before taking the plunge.
As with cars, the RIB market is globalised, and each manufacturer tries to cultivate its own brand image. Sporty, sober or ultra-luxurious? Whatever you want, the options available are endless.
All the major brands now have a well-developed distribution network. Look on their websites to see where their dealers are located and go meet them. Don’t hesitate to talk to owners, visit boat shows (like those in Cannes, Genoa, Miami, Sydney etc.) and do sea trials if possible. It’s all down to feeling!
4) Their ease of maintenance and longevity
Maintaining a Rigid Inflatable Boat is as easy as maintaining a traditional boat. The particularity lies in their tubes, which need regular maintenance to extend their lifespan. Easy-to-use products such as the Blue Marine and Nautic Clean ranges are specifically designed for this purpose and are extremely effective. It’s not uncommon to see Hypalon tubes that are ten years old or so in excellent condition!
Furthermore, the network of repairers specialising in RIBs has continued to grow. Whether you’re in Florida, in Spain, or on the French Riviera, you’ll be able to turn to a qualified repairer. Tubes can be replaced, quickly restoring a boat to its former glory.
5) Rigid Inflatable Boats are a very good investment
RIBs are more popular than ever before and this fact is among the most important advantages of Rigid Inflatable Boats. These boats, which were once designed exclusively for short sea trips, are now suitable for more versatile use. They are now the preferred choice of boaters for their space, their large sunbathing areas and the navigation and on-board living amenities they offer.
RIBs are also a firm favourite with holidaymakers for summer sea outings. Why not rent out your boat when you’re not using it? With the summer months getting longer and consumers wanting to make the most of their time, just imagine how many happy people you can make between May and September!
Therefore, renting out your RIB is an excellent way of recouping the purchase cost and the fixed costs associated with its use (such as mooring fees, insurance and maintenance). You win on all fronts.
Conclusion
Rigid Inflatable Boats are the best compromise between pleasure, safety and practicality. If you’re taking your first steps into the world of boating, and aiming for leisure or family use, the rigid inflatable boat is the right choice for you. It’s your turn to take action and and experience the advantages of Rigid Inflatable Boats!
