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Rigid Inflatable Boats
by: Kristy Annely

A rigid inflatable boat is defined as a hard-hulled boat with air inflatable collars. RIB hulls are made of fiberglass, aluminum or composite materials. The soft bumpers or fenders, called "sponsons," can be air tubes, or all foam systems. These boats are powered by a variety of motors and usually come from the manufacturer as a package – boat with tube, motor and trailer.

Rigid inflatable boats are more like traditional boats, with hulls supported by a rigid material. The main benefits of these boats are superior performance and easy assembly. To assemble, one simply has to inflate the tubes. However, storage can be a problem because they can’t be made smaller than the rigid portion of the boat. Since an RIB is heavier, a davit system (crane like device) is usually required to bring it back onto the boat.

Rigid inflatable boats can accommodate larger outboard motors than other boats of comparable size, and perform almost as well as rigid boats, especially in tight turns, but without the bulk and weight. A one-piece hull and deck provides comfortable, non-skid footing and a stable platform for skiing, diving or fishing. Although the tubes deflate for storage, RIB’s are not compact, and hence, many boaters keep them on trailers, on deck, on their swim step, or on davits.

Rigid inflatable boats are the best performers, and hence, the most expensive. Their rigid fiberglass hulls attached to inflated tubes combine the lightweight stability and buoyancy of inflatable boats with the speed, maneuverability, directional stability, and fuel efficiency of rigid boats.

The beauty of these hard bottom hulled and collared boats is that the tube/collar has flotation, adds stability, and self fendering – meaning that the RIB won’t scratch other hulls. These features of the sponson provide enhanced sea keeping ability, better absorption of shock from waves on impact, easier boarding of other vessels, high visibility, increased swamp buoyancy, and increased stability while stationary and under way.

Rigid inflatable boats have evolved from an all-inflatable dinghy to a deep V hard-hulled boat. RIBs are ideal for use in rescue operations, boarding operations, tenders for ships and yachts, and shuttle vehicles for tourist industries.

Inflatable Boats Info provides detailed information on pontoon, rigid and fishing inflatable boats, as well as trailers, repairs, used inflatable boats and manufacturers. Inflatable Boats Info is the sister site of River Rafting Web.

The Benefits of Inflatable Fishing Boats
by: Kristy Annely

Inflatable fishing boats are great yacht tenders/camping boats that are light enough to be carried in a backpack. Some 8-foot inflatable fishing boats are good for two and gear, and are large enough to float in moderate whitewater rivers. They can also be used as a large yacht tender. Inflatable fishing boats that are 9-foot long can carry enough gear for a long outdoor journey, and make a great fishing boat.

Most inflatable fishing boats fold small enough to be transported easily in a car trunk. They weigh around 40 lbs without running boards and are lightweight enough to be carried to nearby waterways. Inflatable fishing boats are really versatile. They are equally suitable for fishing, diving, or as a pleasure cruiser. In addition to versatility and despite their large size, inflatable fishing boats are very easy to row.

To make things more enjoyable, fit the Inflatable Fishing Boat with a small 4 hp motor and the craft will go around all day on just a gallon of gas. In places that ban gas engines, one could attach an equivalent electric motor. Whatever one’s purpose, from fishing to Class 3 whitewater running, inflatable fishing boats are up to the job.

Inflatable fishing boats are cheap and durable boats well-suited for weekend fishing or hunting and camping trips. They are compact, and can be carried to the water by a couple of people. Despite this, inflatable fishing boats are spacious and rugged enough to handle almost any conditions.

The prices of inflatable fishing boats vary from $30 to $450 depending on the size and number of running boards. For just a fraction of the price of a conventional boat, inflatable fishing boats give the user all the freedom needed coupled with unrivalled accessibility. Thanks to their lightweight and amazing compactness, one can get to those hard-to-reach favorite fishing spots.