You may have noticed an increasing amount of inflatable boats or RIBs on the Gold Coast waterways over the last few years. This is not surprising when you consider the fact that the military, police and rescue organisations use inflatables boats/RIBs as their primary vessel. The increased popularity is also a result of their superior safety features, and ability to go where very few conventional craft can go. There are many that also claim that inflatables have a superior payload, offer a dry comfortable ride, and have a great ability to handle adverse sea conditions.
Most of us want these characteristics and the ability to have fun at the same time. RIB Force Inflatables are satisfying the growing demand for inflatables with the increasing supply of premium AB Inflatables and Aurora Inflatables, which offers a range of over 140 models.
Inflatable boats or RIBs are born in Europe and the dominant boat in Europe due to their superior features. They are also the boat of choice in many areas of the world, including the USA, Canada, New Zealand and South Africa. As more and more discover the incredible performance and comfort of inflatable boats, they are realising the misinformation that was spread about inflatables in the past. As one critic stated, “One ride in an inflatable RIB turned my tinny into a poor comparison.” When you compare the payload of a 3.1m inflatable compared to a 3.1m tinny, research has shown that the inflatable can carry more than double the amount of passengers than the tinny. Moreover, the areas where inflatables are allowed under the CE certification include areas where a tinny is not permitted.
Inflatable boats offer a high degree of sophistication with stylish lines, incredible stability, peak performance, and excellent handling. The choice in terms of application stretches from a small 2-metre roll-up for fishing to a high-tech warship. At the bottom end of the scale, an acceptable inflatable boat will cost as little as $1,000, while at the top end of the market, there are inflatable boats that sell for in excess of $2.5 million.
In times gone by, tinnies and conventional boats were cheaper than inflatable boats. However, due to increasing safety demands by authorities, the cost of tinnies and conventional craft has increased dramatically. There is now very little difference in price.
Many boating critics now argue that when a comparison is made with regard to what the inflatable boat can offer in terms of performance, payload and comfort, inflatable boats now offer a lot more in terms of value for money.
There are many myths that exist about the vulnerability of the multiple air chambers in an inflatable boat. One of the strongest arguments in favour of inflatables is that, if the armed forces are happy to use inflatables where there is a good risk of being shot at, then the ordinary family should also feel safe.
Inflatable boats are easy to maintain. Punctures are not a common occurrence and are also relatively easily fixed.
There are now a number of extremely tough fabrics that are used in the construction of the tubes, such as chorosulfonated polyethylene (CSM) (also known to some by the brand name Hypalon), polyurethane (PU), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). These materials are abrasive-resistant.
Have you ever watched videos of commandos in a military inflatable speeding into and up onto a beach, or seen how the Thundercat racers hit the sand? These examples are clear evidence of the strength and durability of inflatables.
RIB Force Inflatables repair and service division has worked on some inflatables boats that are more than 30 years old, and are still in very good condition.
RIB Force Inflatables is now one of the largest Mercury engine dealers in Australia, and can also provide professional advice and information about your power needs.
To learn more about an inflatable boat, or inspect the range of inflatable boats from AB Inflatables, Aurora Inflatables, or Mercury Inflatables, talk to Mike and Diana Orsmond and the team of friendly and helpful professionals at RIB Force Inflatable Boats. RIB Force is located in the Marine Precinct at Shop 7, Gold Coast City Marina 58-74 Waterway Drive, Coomera, City of Gold Coast, Queensland.
Phone 1800 RIB FORCE (1800 742 367)
www.RibForceInflatables.com.au
(Feb-Apr2017)
