Bow tanks

[Alan Mckewan]

I am preparing a relatively short (<5M) RIB for a long run in the summer and have space available for a flexible bow tank. I am aware of the view that bow tanks arein theory only necessary in poorly balanced boats, but I still think there might be mileage in being able to weigh the bows down in a heavy head sea, then lightening up for flat weather. Does anyone have any good or bad reports, particularly in short RIBs? Where can I get one of those droppable transom pickup tubes from or will I have to make it?

[tsunami]

Don't have much experience with bow water tanks although I do know that Osprey Inflatable used to use quite a good system so it might be worth talking to them. Normally I just try and come to some sort of compromise with the balance of the weight. I normally load most of my overnight gear into the bow and then keep the fuel and any other gear aft. Works well in the rough but obviously you lose out a bit in the calm weather.

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Joe