Watercraft RIBs : opinions ?

[Pablo]

Hi,
i've seen an ad for a Watercraft 5.4m RIB. I've never heard of watercraft other than the spare parts manufacturer. Is it the same company ? I've not managed to find a website. Does anybody have any information about them ?

Thanks.

Paul

[Jelly]

Hi Paul
I think they are mainly used as FRC's on ships. I've not come across any on the the uk market apart from some rather sorry examples in Aberdeen which had suffered many years of abuse.

The last one I drove was a waterjet with solid buoyancy so not a RHIB in the true sence, but it was a good FRC.
Rgds
James

[Rogue Wave]

yeah they are dogs sturdy girls but no fun too heavy and too old

[Downhilldai]

Originally Posted by Rogue Wave

yeah they are dogs sturdy girls but no fun too heavy and too old

You've been out in Swansea then?

[paul tilley]

if it is a 5.4 with grp hull and hypalon tubes it should be a slightly narrower version of a ribtec 535 either made in uk or greece

[Pablo]

Originally Posted by paul tilley

if it is a 5.4 with grp hull and hypalon tubes it should be a slightly narrower version of a ribtec 535 either made in uk or greece

It must be that as it's only just more than two meters wide. The owner quoted it at 6'9". I've not lived in the UK for 10 years now but I think that translates to 2m10 ? If this is a good boat then I might be interested but it would mean that i'd have to deflate it and strap it up to get it down my alley way.

Is this a good boat with off shore capabilities ?

[GuyP]

Originally Posted by paul tilley

if it is a 5.4 with grp hull and hypalon tubes it should be a slightly narrower version of a ribtec 535 either made in uk or greece

Also the same hull as the Solent 5.4. From what I've read they are a quick ride but can be quite wet.

[Pablo]

Originally Posted by GuyP

Also the same hull as the Solent 5.4. From what I've read they are a quick ride but can be quite wet.

I've heard that the bigger Solents are very fast but they smack down in big waves. However I can't get any information concerning the 5.4. I've looked at the boats of all the members of Ribnet but no one seams to own one !

[GuyP]

The bigger Solents are a completely different hull design to the 460 and 540.

There are a few people on here with Ribtec 535s - I'm sure they'll be along soon to give their views on the hull. I think it's generally positive feedback apart from the lack of deckspace due to the narrow beam.