Certification Mandatory Since June 16th 1998
Most of our Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs) are certified in CE Category B (offshore) or CE Category C (inshore/coastal). Do you know yours?
But what do these categories actually mean for their safety, performance, and intended use on the water?
What Do the CE Certifications Mean?
Under the EU Recreational Craft Directive (RCD), the categories are:
- CE Category A – Ocean: designed for ocean use under extreme wave and wind conditions.
- CE Category B – Offshore: for offshore use in rough conditions, but not as extreme as Category A.
- CE Category C – Coastal / inland waters: for lakes, rivers, and short coastal trips.
- CE Category D – Sheltered waters: for rivers, canals, and calm sheltered areas.
A RIB is an open vessel with inflatable sides and usually an exposed console.
Because of this, it typically does not meet the structural requirements for Category A. Such as permanent enclosed accommodation and very robust construction.
What Product Examples Show
- Many shipyards explicitly list CE C certification, for example 6 m RIBs made of fiberglass, aluminium and Hypalon.
- Some RIBs may carry a CE B (offshore) certificate, but category A is “never” mentioned.
- In general, suppliers highlight CE compliance, but not specifically CE A.
Why CE A is Rare (or Nonexistent) for RIBs
- Most RIBs lack a closed cabin or strong enclosed hull structures required for independent ocean-going safety.
- The CE A (Ocean) rating is the strictest under the EU’s Recreational Craft Directive, meaning the vessel is built for long voyages in severe conditions. Withstanding winds over Beaufort 8 (40+ knots) and wave heights above 4 m (13 ft). Tip: Check out my detailed article on wind and sea state.
- Certification to CE A involves stricter design and testing standards, often with classification bodies like Bureau Veritas or Lloyd’s Register.
- Unlike sailing yachts or motor yachts, RIBs are designed for speed, versatility, and coastal operations, not for extended ocean passages (daredevils do).
Conclusion
- There are no standard RIBs with CE Category A.
- Most are CE Category C (coastal) or B (offshore).
- If you are specifically looking for a CE A certified craft, you would need to look at closed-cabin motorboats or yachts designed for true ocean use. Check out this No Limit 15.50 as an example.
Proud to share that ORCA Retail is a Friend of RIBs ONLY.