RIBs ONLY RIB Photo Contest 2024: Judges at Work !

RIBs ONLY RIB Photo Contest 2024 - it's up to the judges ! @ RIBs ONLY - Home of the Rigid Inflatable Boat
RIBs ONLY RIB Photo Contest 2024 – it’s up to the judges !

RIBs ONLY RIB Photo Contest 2024: Fingers Crossed !

The much-anticipated RIBs ONLY RIB Photo Contest 2024 is underway, and the judges are now hard at work selecting the top entries.

The international jury is analyzing each photo for creativity, composition, and how well it captures the spirit of Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs).

From dynamic shots of RIBs slicing through waves to serene scenes against breathtaking backdrops, the competition is fierce !

Judges aren’t just looking for technical skill—they’re seeking images that tell compelling stories of adventure and connection to the water.

Stay tuned as the judges unveil the most captivating RIB photos around mid December 2024 !

These were the winners and nominees of 2023 (video and article).

ORCA – A Century of History, Innovation and Partnerships

A Century of History - ORCA 100 Years @ RIBs ONLY - Home of the Rigid Inflatable Boat

A Century of History!

November 22nd, 2024, Friday

I was honored to attend the 100th anniversary celebration at the Orca factory in Moeskroen, Belgium. My dear wife accompanied me.

We’re both passionate about Rigid Inflatable Boats.

The event, impeccably organized by a dedicated and professional team, offered fascinating insights into the factory’s history, operations, and innovations.

We got a fascinating tour.

Due to confidentiality, photography and videography were prohibited, adding to the exclusivity of the experience.

It was truly a privilege to share this unique occasion alongside CEOs and industry leaders.

A century of history is an awe-inspiring milestone.

Team ORCA, may the odds be in your favor!

Read these posts about ORCA® Retail.

Proud to share that ORCA Retail is a Friend of RIBs ONLY.

Highfield Velox 420: A Rotax Jet-Powered Fun RIB

>> 2 minutes read time

Discover the Highfield Velox 420

The Highfield 420 Velox is a compact, high-performance Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB).

It measures under 14 feet (4,44 m). This boat is uniquely equipped with a jet propulsion system instead of the usual outboard motor.

The Highfield Velox 420 is powered by a BRP Rotax’s ACE 900 engine. It weighs less than 125 pounds (56 kg).

This allows it to achieve a lightweight design with a low center of gravity, enhancing stability.

The jet system is integrated with an aluminum hull.

This allows shallow-water operation in less than a foot of water. It is ideal for maneuvering in tight areas without risking propeller strikes.

This model’s jet propulsion offers a major advantage in responsiveness.

According to the pilot in this video acceleration is quick, with the Highfield Velox 420 reaching plane in about 3.5 seconds, hitting 27 knots (30 mph) in around 6 seconds, and topping out just below 35 knots (40 mph).

This video was published on the Highfield Boats YouTube channel.

Proud to share that Highfield is a good Friend of RIBs ONLY.

The specs are listed below the image.

Highfield Velox 420- A Rotax Jet-Powered Fun RIB @ RIBs ONLY - Home of the Rigid Inflatable Boat
Highfield Velox 420- A Rotax Jet-Powered Fun RIB
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Wind, Waves, Swell: Beaufort vs Douglas Sea Scale

Wind, Waves, Swell and Beaufort vs Douglas Sea Scale @ RIBs ONLY - Home of the Rigid Inflatable Boat
Beaufort vs Douglas Sea Scale

>> 4 minutes read time

Beaufort vs Douglas Sea Scale: Application

Before we dive into the scales, first let me point out what the difference is between waves and swell. They’re two distinct types of water movement, each shaped by different forces.

Get in the spirit by visiting my RIBs ONLY YouTube channel, where, guided by this overview, switch your focus on the unique settings and conditions of each action video instead of the RIB.

Waves

  • What They Are: Waves form due to local wind blowing across the water’s surface.
  • Features: These waves tend to be shorter, choppy, and irregular, shifting quickly with changes in wind direction and speed.
    Their size and pattern are directly influenced by the strength of the local wind.
  • Look and Feel: When the wind is strong, waves can become steep with breaking tops, resulting in rough, unpredictable conditions.
  • Lifespan: Waves are temporary and subside once the local wind decreases or stops.

Swell

  • What It Is: Swell is created by winds from distant storms or strong weather systems and can travel over long distances.
  • Features: Swell consists of smooth, evenly spaced waves with longer wavelengths.
    It moves independently of local wind and maintains a steady rhythm.
  • Look and Feel: Unlike the sharpness of waves, swell appears as gentle, rolling waves that don’t break as often and have a more relaxed shape.
  • Lifespan: Swell can persist even when local winds are calm, often traveling for days across the ocean.

Scales Explained: One Doesn’t Exclude the Other

Beaufort Scale

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Pirelli 50 Mansory: A Fusion of Speed, Luxury & Style

>> 3 minutes read time

The Impressive Pirelli 50 Mansory

Few RIB brands have a “50” or a 15 meter or bigger in their range. Pirelli has it and it’s designed in collaboration with the Mannerfelt Design Team and built by Tecnorib.

It was debuting at the 2024 Cannes Yachting Festival. This special edition was customized by Mansory, a German company known for transforming expensive luxury vehicles.

Mansory has elevated the original Pirelli 50 with enhanced details, blending sportiness and luxury.

Spoiler alert: find below the extensive specs.

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