Essential equipment

[newbie]

currently choosing my first rib it is only going to be small one maximum 4.0 metres and family day use - what should my essential equipment bag contain ?

whistles
flares
anchor
radio
pump
Depth metre
sat nav equiv.

what else should i include


wet suit and life jackets a given

[whisper]

Killcord and a spare one

[lockieboi]

Lifejackets, enough for all on board.

[lockieboi]

Whoops, missed that you had included them

[newbie]

best zip wire run i have ever seen

[newbie]

kill cord - assumed came wiith the boat - learning so much

[Dan Gurney]

I'd probably add some charts, a rescue knife, and probably a multi-tool of some kind.

I have one of these which I've been pleased with (though I've never had to use it in anger).

I also have one of these which has prved handy on a number of occasions.

I also spent £30 on these and I print out and laminate the charts, or part therof, for the area I'm visiting as a backup to my plotter.

Oh, and a handbearing compass is prolly a good idea and not too expensive.

[Dan Gurney]

Originally Posted by newbie

kill cord - assumed came wiith the boat - learning so much

It does, but if the helm goes over the side wearing it then he/she might want someone in the boat to be able to pick them up. Or at least hold station and not blow off downwind at 5kts.

[newbie]

thanks Clamchowder - could o some damage with those pliers and knife

must add a waterproof ipad cover to the list, the memory map looks a great addtion. do maps show depth and rocks?

[whisper]

Battery powered emergency nav light, mobile phone, tow rope , torch, fresh water and a cuddly toy!

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[Dan Gurney]

Originally Posted by newbie

thanks Clamchowder - could o some damage with those pliers and knife

must add a waterproof ipad cover to the list, the memory map looks a great addtion. do maps show depth and rocks?

The rescue knife has a rounded end so you can't stick it through yourself or your tubes. The knife on the multi tool is pointy so I tend not to get it out whilst on board. It would be just like me to drop it a knack a tube.

The memory map charts are basically digital versions of the current admiralty charts and therefore have all the info you need on them. I've no experience of the iPad app (which I think is chargeable) but I found the Android version a bit fiddly to use at sea on my Galaxy S3.

[Peter_C]

To me, and the Coast Guard, paddle(s) are an essential item. Since I do not have a backup motor, mine is a nice set of paddles that I keep mounted to the inside of the tubes. Something with a solid, non collapsable shaft that floats, as you don't want them to break when you really need them.

I also find dry bags are nice to have. Same days on the water are wetter than others.

A cooler! These hot summer days are best enjoyed with a cold beverage.

[prairie tuber]

Originally Posted by Clamchowder

The rescue knife has a rounded end so you can't stick it through yourself or your tubes. The knife on the multi tool is pointy so I tend not to get it out whilst on board. It would be just like me to drop it a knack a tube.

The memory map charts are basically digital versions of the current admiralty charts and therefore have all the info you need on them. I've no experience of the iPad app (which I think is chargeable) but I found the Android version a bit fiddly to use at sea on my Galaxy S3.

Here is what I carry, which is specifically designed with whitewater rafting in mind. I believe it by far the best and safest design out there for emergency use with inflatable boats. Strap the the sheath to the front of the PFD.

CRKT Bear Claw Knife at nrs.com

Lots of good suggestions already made here, I would especially emphasize the importance of a spare kill cord. One other essential is a BOB (bug out bag) which is a very small pack with a small first aid kit and survival kit (with foolproof fire making gear, space blanket, folding knife, mini saw, small compass, whistle, signaling mirror, 550 paracord, etc.), and some emergency food in a very lightweight sealed container which can be opened by hand (eg. sardines), in case you have to land somewhere at a distance from help and need to stay overnight.

[Budgie1]

At this rate first thing 'newbie' is going to need is bigger boat to carry it all !!

[stray]

For charts have a look at Chart Sources | Official OpenCPN Homepage they're free.

[Mollers]

My teenage kids hop about the Bay from Fal to Helford in the SR ( a 3 boat birthday pub crawl last night. )) The kit that I insist on-
Handleld VHF
Mobile phone.
Personal Epirb in jacket pocket.
LJs x POB
The SR carries paddles, has Nav lights and base set VHF.

Most importantly, to phone me to let me know their movements.

Any sign of fog or sea mist, stay put.

All basic stuff, I worry more when they're on the road at night.

[m chappelow]

Warm waterproof clothing this time of the year .

If you are at risk of clobbering rocks & no aux motor a spare props handy ,

Some sort of short pole or boat hooks handy too ..

[stray]

Warm waterproof clothing this time of the year .

I forgot the Factor 30 yesterday.

[Jonny H]

And not forgetting a suitable fire extinguisher

[Wibs]

As above..+

Manual bailer
25m spare rope
Throwing rope
I also have laminated,in a dry accessible place, the correct Mayday procedure word for word for my rib.(just in case)