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.
Table of Contents
Let’s Dive In!
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 is crucial.
It can make all the difference in ensuring both safety and performance.
It is designed to improve your handling and control of semi-rigid boats. We will particularly focus on the RIBCRAFT hull.
1. The Maneuverability Exercise
The foundation of any technical training begins with understanding your boat’s maneuverability.
This exercise helps you learn the ins and outs of handling the boat. You will practice navigating through tight spaces.
You will also master sharp turns and rapid acceleration.
It’s about becoming familiar with how the boat responds to your actions.
It is also about developing a sense of control in varying conditions.
2. Tight Turns at High Speed
One of the most exhilarating challenges in boating is mastering tight turns at high speeds.
This skill is crucial for situations where quick changes of direction are necessary.
During this phase of training, the goal is to learn how to manage the boat’s speed while executing sharp turns.
By doing so, you also get a feel for the thrust generated by the V8 engine.
This adds an entirely new layer of control and excitement to the experience.
3. Realizing the Thrust of the V8
Understanding the power of the V8 engine is a key part in developing confidence and precision in RIBs.
This is not just about speed.
It’s about harnessing the engine’s thrust effectively.
This is crucial to maintain stability and control, particularly during high-speed maneuvers.
Acknowledging how the boat responds to the throttle lets you fine-tune your technique.
It helps you maintain composure while at full throttle.
4. Mastering the RIBCRAFT Hull
Every boat has its unique handling characteristics, and the RIBCRAFT hull is no exception.
Training to master this hull type requires learning how to navigate the boat’s structure properly.
It also involves understanding how it interacts with the water.
It’s all about optimizing the boat’s performance, stability, and responsiveness by adjusting to the hull’s specific features.
A well-executed mastery of the RIBCRAFT hull leads to smoother rides and greater control over various sea conditions.
5. The Physical Relationship with the Water
Boating is not just a mechanical task—it’s a physical experience.
The relationship between the boat and the water directly impacts its handling.
In this aspect of training, boaters learn about the effects of the water’s surface.
It affects movement and buoyancy. It also influences resistance.
Mastering this physical connection ensures that you’re more in tune with the boat’s behavior.
This allows for smoother and more intuitive handling.
6. Daring to Turn the Wheel
Sometimes, the hardest part is simply having the confidence to make the move.
Daring to turn the wheel, especially at high speeds or in challenging conditions, teaches boaters valuable skills.
It helps them trust their instincts.
It also helps them understand the boat’s capabilities.
The goal here is to develop the mental strength to take control.
It’s important to commit to your actions. Keep the boat steady despite the forces at play.
7. Accepting the Angle Shot
Turning a boat often requires managing steep angles, which can be daunting if not properly approached.
Training in this area teaches you how to accept the angle of the boat.
It also shows you how to manage it when navigating sharp turns.
You will learn these skills when navigating rough waters.
Accepting this angle without hesitation ensures that you’re ready for any scenario, from sharp curves to unexpected waves.
8. Placing Your Gaze
Finally, the importance of placing your gaze correctly can’t be overstated.
Position your eyes correctly on the horizon. Look ahead of your boat. Watch both sides behind you. This ensures better focus and anticipatory actions.
This technique helps in making swift, well-informed decisions when maneuvering the boat.
Maintaining eye contact with your surroundings can guide your movements, resulting in smoother navigation and more controlled maneuvers.
By mastering these key skills, you’ll become a more confident and skilled skipper.