Isle of Wight (UK) and the unsettled weather over the weekend 3-5 June did nothing to prevent one of the largest turnouts of RIBs on show in the UK. With more than 80 different makes and models available for inspection and trial it was at times quite a navigational feat just to get in and out of the marina enclosure at West Cowes. The brisk breeze and turbulent sea conditions made it perfect for trialling these unique powerboats. Indeed where else can you get 'hands on' before buying that RIB of your dreams.

From the functional Halmatic professional rig-out to the sexy seating of the sun seeking Pascoe sportsboats, (the latter of which I guess are now questionably RIBs, with a well developed almost full cabined hull and a rubber tube around). I never spotted these sexy models going out on any sea trials in the volatile sea conditions, so there was I guess, something for all interests and pockets.

Scorpion and Revenger RIBs were represented with both outboard and inboard models. Scorpion's latest 10m special RIB, " Hot Lemon V ", made a guest appearance before final preparations are completed for its Round Britain record attempt.

Ribcraft's models were in high demand for a sea trial and waits of up to 2hrs were not uncommon in order to hitch a ride on these popular RIBs. A short trip out on their 585 model was very impressive, the soft landings after climbing the persistent rollers was remarkable. A real safe family fun boat.

Valiant had recently brought in their largest leisure RIB, a 7.5m. Iin reality, with its nice big fat tubes and broad beam, it has the deck area of many an 8.5m. It's targeted at the large family day out cruiser and it purred comfortably, powered by the new and remarkable Mercury 'Fly by Wire' Verado 250hp outboard.

As to be expected, the RIBex show originally attracted manufacturers from the UK but the presence of RIBs from New Zealand, Spain, Poland, South Africa and more.. now make this a truly international show.

Parker RIBs (Poland) brought their new 7.5m to show off their developing quality and all at very competitive pricing.

It was however interesting to see a new specialist builder appear on the scene with a race developed sports RIB. Banana Sharks 'Seven Seventy', is based on their race bred Banana Shark, an original design by Lorne Campbell. They are constructed entirely 'in house' in Devon.

A newcomer to the show was Arctic Blue and what a good first impression. A Norwegian designed 8.5m with the latest stepped hull technology, constructed in Poland to a very high standard. It was fitted out with a 320hp Mercruiser diesel inboard. Utilising a standard specification (including an onboard toilet, fixed inside the console, it's a 'turnkey' package', with no hidden extras, and at a price that represents excellent value for money. This RIB was probably the hottest deal in the show.

Useful Links:

Banana Shark
www.bananasharkracing.com
Halmatic
www.halmatic.co.uk
Parker Ribs
www.parkerribs.com
Revenger Ribs
www.revenger.co.uk
Ribcraft
www.ribcraft.co.uk
Scorpion Ribs
www.scorpionribs.com
Valiant
www.ibs-boats.com

June 2005