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Build of Chaterina D Rescue RIB

The Chaterina D Rescue RIB is a Sight to See

Over the upcoming years, the KNRM will retire its Atlantic 75 rescue boats after years of dedicated service, often under demanding conditions.

This inaugural rescue Rigid Inflatable Boat will commence operations this year (2024) under the auspices of KNRM Vlieland.

Following suit, each subsequent step will witness the systematic replacement of all Atlantic 75-class rescue boats with the advanced Chaterina D model.

This Rescue RIB has an aluminium hull and has a wider deck space than the Atlantic 75.

Thank you to the KNRM and all other rescue services for watching our backs.

This video was published on the KNRM YouTube channel.

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Zodiac X10CC Official Reveal 2024

Karel Overlaet, RIB Advocate

The All New Zodiac X10CC

A 10-meter center console Rigid Inflatable Boat combining the advantages and characteristics of RIBs and rigid boats. It can have up to 20 people on board.

This video shows the renderings of this new model by Zodiac.

Though I like the looks of this Zodiac X10CC, I find myself pondering the authenticity of this vessel’s classification as a true RIB.

Its design appears notably distinct from their other RIB models.

They assert that equipped with 2 x 400 hp Mercury outboards, it boasts a consumption rate of merely 3 liters per nautical mile.

Yet, as it’s often the case, critical parameters remain undisclosed, leaving room for scrutiny regarding the veracity of this claim.

The weight/power ratio means it consumes 30% less fuel than a rigid boat of the same size.

Its 760-liter fuel tank gives it a range of around 250 nautical miles.

On their site I found these prices (April 2024):
Starting price is € 139 000.
Equipped and motorized: € 281 278 ex VAT, including the hard-top and several options, 2 engines Mercury 300 hp outboards and joystick (without freight cost).

This video was published on the Zodiac Nautic YouTube channel

Specs and Rendering

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What Are Differences Between Hypalon and PVC

Karel Overlaet, RIB Advocate

Differences Between Hypalon and PVC is a Hot Topic

When deliberating over the optimal material for constructing a rigid inflatable boat (RIB), two primary contenders emerge: Hypalon and PVC.

Each material possesses unique traits, benefits, and considerations, catering to diverse boating requirements.

I conducted some research on the topic, delving into various sources and gathering relevant information for you.

Deep Dive Into Hypalon and PVC: Comparison

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Are RIBs Suitable for Long-distance Cruising?

Karel Overlaet, RIB Advocate

Essential Thoughts for Long-Distance Adventures

Maybe you’re just like me, eager to set out with your RIB and explore new horizons.

Rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) have surged in popularity recently, thanks to their adaptability, resilience, and superior performance across various marine settings.

Often praised for their stability, manoeuvrability, and capacity to tackle rough waters, RIBs are a common sight in recreational boating, fishing trips, rescue missions, military contexts and so on.

But can these nimble crafts endure the challenges of long-distance cruising?

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What Safety Equipment is Essential for RIBs?

Karel Overlaet, RIB Advocate

Read the Operating Instructions of Safety Equipment Beforehand

When operating a rigid inflatable boat (RIB), it’s crucial to have the right safety equipment on board to ensure the well-being of yourself and your passengers.

This article is part of the how-to series I’m writing about several aspects of going out with your RIB, a.o.:
Safe Passenger Transport on RIBs: 7 Essentials
How Do I Navigate Shallow Waters in a RIB: 10 Tips
How Do I Protect my RIB from UV Damage
Install Additional Seating or Storage on a RIB
What Engine Maintenance Tips Apply to RIBs
…

Here’s a list of 13 essential safety equipments for RIBs.

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