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Category: Ribcraft

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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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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Mastering Raz de Sein on a Tide Coefficient of 105

Karel Overlaet, RIB Advocate

>> 1 minute read time

OLM Offers Training for Mastering Raz de Sein

OLM Permis Bateau is a training organisation for boating licenses.

I’ve published more great videos of RIBbing in this renowned area.

Christophe is in Plogoff with a clear goal. He wants to gain a better understanding of navigating the waters around Audierne.

He also aims to confidently cross the Raz de Sein (Brittany, France) safely with his small 90 hp Guppy.

It’s a great moment of awareness and responsibility while mastering Raz de Sein.

Christophe is honing his skills in this challenging area. This ensures he can handle the strong currents.

He can also manage the unpredictable weather conditions often found in this part of the coast.

His determination to navigate safely with a smaller boat like the Guppy shows his respect for the sea.

It also demonstrates his commitment to mastering the craft of seamanship.

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

Proud to share that RIBCRAFT UK is a Friend of RIBs ONLY.

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