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Category: OLM

Advanced RIB Training – Review of 2024

Karel Overlaet, RIB Advocate

Advanced RIB Training by OLM

This video is a compilation of the advanced RIB training sessions of 2024 showcasing 4 stages.

It features sea conditions ranging from 3 to 5 Beaufort in the Raz de Sein, France.

The stages are :

  1. Glénan Archipelago
  2. Raz de Sein
  3. Iroise Sea
  4. Night at the Glénan

Olivier Consorti, owner of OLM Perfectionnement Mer Formée, leads these training sessions, pushing the limits of mastery of his clients.

This technical training is unique in France.

Recently, I authored a comprehensive and easy to read article that explores the core focus of these training sessions: Mastering the Art of Driving RIBs with Precision and Expertise.

I’ve uploaded additional training videos showcasing advanced navigation techniques in one of Europe’s most challenging tidal races—OLM training sessions.

This video was published on the OLM Perfectionnement Mer Formée YouTube channel.

Mastering Waves of Fierce Storm Herminia 2025

Karel Overlaet, RIB Advocate

Surfing on Storm Herminia

Storm Herminia raged fiercely west of the British Isles in January 2025 hitting Spain and France with full force.

Olivier Consorti, owner of “OLM Perfectionnement Mer Formée” and his client started a challenging training session.

They were in the legendary waters of the Raz de Sein, France. This happened in the aftermath of the storm.

This is a place where currents, waves, and wind test even the most experienced navigators.

The goal of this training by OLM, was to learn to make the right trajectory choices based on wave reading.

It included adjusting speed and embracing the occasional saltwater shower. They also accepted the support of Randy, the local wild dolphin!

I’ve posted more training videos of advanced navigation experiences in one of the most challenging tidal races in Europe: OLM training sessions.

Recently I wrote an extensive easy-to-read article about what the focus of these training sessions is: Elevating Technical Mastery Driving RIBs

This video was published on the OLM Perfectionnement Mer Formée YouTube channel.

Elevating Technical Mastery Driving RIBs

Karel Overlaet, RIB Advocate

Mastering Technical Maneuvers!

When it comes to navigating Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs), technical skills are everything.

Whether you’re an experienced boater or a beginner, honing your ability to maneuver the boat safely is crucial.

In this blog post, Olivier Consorti, owner of “OLM Perfectionnement Mer Formée” breaks down the key targets of a technical training session.

I’ve posted many videos here of Olivier’s high-impact training sessions.

Editor’s Note

This technical training is unique in France.

The training is designed as guided learning through mistakes. It helps participants analyze their incorrect actions.

This occurs in an environment as close to reality as possible.

Accepting the physical consequences of interacting with waves is crucial and adapting to surrounding noise and shocks is important.

Adjusting driving techniques to the environment is also necessary.

There’s no shortcut. This cannot be learned from books or video tutorials.

It must be practiced in real conditions, in a suitable location, with the right equipment and a competent instructor.

Weather conditions can change throughout the day, and returning in rougher seas than at departure can be a stressful experience.

This video was published on the OLM Perfectionnement Mer Formée YouTube channel.

First click on “more…” below to use the table of content.

Let’s Dive In!

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Wind, Waves, Swell: Beaufort vs Douglas Sea Scale

Karel Overlaet, RIB Advocate
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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Essentials for Safe Boating in Rough Waters

Karel Overlaet, RIB Advocate

>> 1 minute read time

How to Navigate in Rough Waters

Training for the sea requires a strong foundation in both theory and hands-on skills.

Venturing out safely, especially with loved ones, demands a well-rounded and proven knowledge of maritime conditions.

Being at the helm means handling any sea state with confidence and reliability—because the sea isn’t something to take lightly.

You, as a skipper, are responsible for everything and everyone on board. Check beforehand your for instance the safety equipment and the weather forecast. Verify the fuel and radio. Inspect the condition of your RIB and engine.

Ensure alarm signals and the fire extinguisher are ready to use.

It’s only logical to do it every time you go out, whether it’s in rough waters or as calm as a mer d’huile, as the French so beautifully put it.

If you need to know more, check out these articles:

Now, Back to the Rough Waters Video

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