In South Africa the NSRI comprises over 1350 volunteers who generously give their time across 50 rescue bases, encompassing satellite or auxiliary stations and inland dams. They’re on call 24/7.
Cape Town based Gemini is the supplier of their SAR RIBs sinds decades proving their seaworthiness and operational reliability.
Take a peek at this cool photo article showing how they build the bigger Gemini WR880 hull. Check it out here!
Combining the sturdiness of a rigid hull with the buoyancy of inflatable tubes, RIBs offer unparalleled versatility and performance on the water.
And for those who are passionate about these remarkable vessels, there’s no better place to turn than RIBsONLY.com, a dedicated blog catering exclusively to RIB aficionados.
A Friend of RIBs ONLY comes highly recommended, as I’ll detail below. Their website links are conveniently available via the sidebar for your immediate exploration.
Why Does it Matter
In essence, a Friend of RIBs ONLY is more than just a purveyor of RIBs or resources (like Orca Retail), seatings (like Ullman Dynamics) they’re a trusted partner committed to delivering excellence in every aspect of your boating experience.
Quality You Can Trust
At the heart of the Friends of RIBs ONLY network lies a commitment to quality.
These companies aren’t just selling stuff—they’re curating a selection of top-tier vessels, resources and seatings crafted with precision and care.
From construction materials to engineering prowess, every aspect is scrutinised to ensure that only the finest products make the cut.
Client-Centered Service
But exceptional quality is only part of the equation.
What truly sets a Friend of RIBs ONLY apart is their unwavering dedication to client-centered service.
Whether you’re a seasoned captain or a first-time buyer, these companies prioritise your needs, offering personalised guidance and support every step of the way.
Standing Out in a Sea of Options
In a market flooded with choices, a Friend of RIBs ONLY stand out as beacons of reliability and integrity.
Their commitment to excellence, coupled with a second to nonepassion, ensures that every interaction is not just a transaction, but a journey toward unparalleled boating bliss.
So, whether you’re in the market for a new RIB, retubing, seatings or simply seeking advice from fellow enthusiasts, look no further than the Friends of RIBs ONLY network.
With their expertise and dedication, they’re ready to elevate your boating experience to new heights. Here they are:
Proud to share that ORCA Retail is a Friend of RIBs ONLY.
So proud to share that Ullman Dynamics is a good Friend of RIBs ONLY.
Proud to share that Vanclaes Trailers is a good Friend of RIBs ONLY.
Gemini WR1060 and Mercury 600 – Photo @mercurymarine and @mercurymarinefr
Gemini WR1060 – Its Flagship
“Feels like just yesterday that our GEMINI MARINE (PTY) LTD WR1060 was chosen as the ‘weapon of choice’ for the Australasian launch of the new 600 hp MERCURY V12 Verado outboard engine.
Thanks to Mercury Marine for sharing these amazing High Res Images with us. What a great combination!”
GEMINI MARINE, an ISO 9001:2015 company, manufactures RIBs up to 10.6 m in size, exported to over 45 countries.
GEMINI is the Oldest and Biggest RIB manufacturer in Africa, our knowledge and expertise ensure that our clients get the finest boats available in the world’s commercial, rescue and military market to suit their specific maritime requirements.
Clients include SPACE-X, Royal UK Navy, UK MOD, NSW Water Police, Royal New Zealand Navy, United Nations, Australian Defense Force, Olympic Security, African Union, Australian Federal Police and Sole Supplier to the NSRI (National Sea Rescue Institute).
Recently I published the news of the new GEMINI WR720 Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB) with the very first official photos. You can find that post here.
And here is the press release of the new versions.
Latest Ranges of the New WR720
New to market and now available through the GEMINI Dealer network, GEMINI has just unveiled their latest Ranges of their newly launched WR720 model.
With various deck layout options, CEO Gerhard Neethling feels that they have hit the sweet spot for various market applications and customer specific options.
Attached are some of these options. One being the EU Leisure Edition with its classical lines and the other the uncompromising Gemini Stealth Adventure range.
The WR720 hull is based on the legendary Gemini WR880 and is built to the same uncompromising strength and quality standard as its larger sibling.
“With over 40+ years of fanatical focus on component strength and build quality has cemented Gemini Marine’s reputation as a top tier RIB builder. The new WR720 has been extensively tested and assessed over the last two years and we can confidently add it to our existing range”, comments Gemini Marine CEO, Gerhard Neethling.
The WR720 production line in Cape Town is now running at 100% capacity with the first boats being shipped to GEMINI Dealers in Australia, France, Thailand and the USA where they will be launched at perspective international boat shows.
“We feel that the 720 is the perfect size RIB that can cater for various applications and is suitable for numerous engine configurations. Not only have we brought this amazing new Hull to market, but we have designed and tooled up numerous add-ons and options for Leisure, Commercial & Professional applications”, Neethling concludes.
Checkout the slideshow below to see the latest ranges of the new WR720.
