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Questions to ask when buying an Inflatable Rib

What style of inflatable rib should you buy?

A RIB or RHIB are lightweight, high performance powerboats constructed with a solid hull, and inflatable tubes around the outer edge.

RIBs are incredibly versatile boats, their design means they are very stable, seaworthy and very durable making them the perfect tool for any commercial work. Added buoyancy from the tubes means that they have an impressive load carrying capability, and if the integrity of the hull is compromised, they will still have adequate flotation to make it back safely to shore.

The choice of RIBs is now huge, below are the main styles on offer:

Inflatable Keels – An inflatable keel boat has an air chamber between a wood insert floor and a fabric bottom which makes it more rigid and gives it a small v shape, so it is not so floppy. These lightweight inflatable keel tenders are the backbone of the inflatable world.

Rugged enough to be used in any type of water, yet capable of being folded up and stored in a bag these air decks are great when you want a boat that is likely to be assembled & disassembled multiple times a season, and where weight is critical.

Fibreglass Keels - A fiberglass hull tender has a moulded and sleeker finish. Fiberglass hulls are easier and cheaper to repair when minor accidents occur, and it is easier to find fiberglass technicians almost everywhere.

Fiberglass console ribs have more under deck space on the smaller sizes (up to 15ft). These can offer a higher under deck fuel tank capacity and/or more ample space for storage, among other benefits. These boats produce less noise under operation compared with some of the other styles.

Aluminium – Aluminium floor boats provide a more rigid floor and ride slightly better than their air deck sisters. They are made up from PVC tubes and a floor which is pieced together with lightweight aluminium panels.

These aluminium hulls are more resistant to impacts in certain conditions ie rocky shores and shallow waters. In case of an impact, the hull might suffer a scratch or bend, but will not fracture. Their low weight demands less power, which results in fuel economy and this style of boat is easier to carry and dock.

Aluminium boats require very little maintenance other than keeping the salt off to protect the hull from corrosion.

What is your budget?

Inflatable boats can vary greatly in price and prices will differ depending on size, style, condition and age. Think about what you are looking for and do a bit of research to get an idea of what the sort of inflatable boat you are looking for may cost.
Something else you need to remember is buying a boat does not just stop at the purchase price, there are also all the ongoing fees to consider like running costs (such as fuel prices) and maintenance costs.

What type of engine is best for my RIB?

There are two choice of engine for an inflatable rib – petrol or diesel engines, both of which have their good and bad points.
Boats with petrol engines tend to be cheaper to buy. This is because petrol engines are less fuel efficient than diesel engines and therefore cost more to run. Petrol engines generally cost more to maintain as more parts are required for each service (spark plugs, HT leads etc).

Diesel powered boats cost more to purchase as they are much more fuel efficient than petrol powered ones but will require less maintenance.

Generally speaking, petrol powered boats are also quicker than diesel ones, so this is another factor to consider when buying one. Weigh up all the options and make the right choice for your situation but our advice is to always go for an outboard engine on a rib.

Where can I buy an inflatable RIB from?

The first place to go when buying a boat is the internet; you will find thousands of inflatable RIB boats on sale on the internet either through private sellers, dealers or brokers.

Buying through a private seller or dealer has its advantages as you will always get more information on the true nature and quirks of a boat from the owner themselves and they are often more flexible. Avoid private sellers and dealers that do not have a credible reputation.

Alternatively, you can use a brokerage company. Reputable brokers will have a great deal of experience in buying inflatable RIBs for customers, enabling them to detect a good deal when they see one. They will also have a variety of boats in one location and they can help to make the buying process as stress free as possible. Find a good broker either through by checking their advertisements or through recommendation from previous customers.
Buying a used boat can be a good idea for boaters with experience. New boaters might benefit from buying a new boat that comes with a manufacturer’s warranty. If considering a used boat, it is advisable to research the best used boat brands and models.

What are the estimated running costs of owning an inflatable RIB?

Like with any type of boat, the costs will vary but working out the average running costs of owning an inflatable RIB and how you plan to use it is very important. A good way of doing this is to ask other boaters for their knowledge and experiences. Below is a list of some of the running costs that you will need to factor in when buying a speed boat:

Insurance
Boat maintenance
Fuel
Safety equipment
Mooring fees

Has the RIB had a recent a survey?

When buying a second-hand boat, it is advisable to have a survey done by a qualified marine surveyor. They will advise on any faults on the hull and with the boat’s internal systems and highlight any issue the boat may have so you have peace of mind that you know exactly what you are buying.

What documents and paperwork will you need to buy an inflatable RIB?

Having the correct paperwork in place when you buy your inflatable boat is important. This includes ownership papers, insurance, boat safety certificate etc. Make sure you have all of these in place when you buy.

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Ribs for sale by Barry Hawkins

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