SEAWORK, the annual commercial marine exhibition and forum, now in its 9th year, is dedicated to workboats and the supporting marine trade. The exhibition has also developed very active sections dedicated to RIBwork and DiveWork. HotRIBS visited the show to see how RIBwork was represented by the RIBtraders that we know, and any others that we don't.

The exhibition ran over three days, 13-15 June, from the old Fruit Warehouse on the Southampton docks complex. An impressive turnout from the professional marine trade ensures it's a trade exhibition not to be missed.
Another reason for our visit was to learn about forthcoming European Legislation which is about to challenge the users and builders of high speed boats. But more of this later.

Avon Military & Professional
Avon pioneered the development of high quality inflatable craft for military and commercial applications.

The professional range now includes multi-role craft, assault craft, heavy duty workboats and rapid deployment boats for emergency rescue operations. They displayed two new Searider craft, a 5.4m inboard diesel and a 7.6m with twin outboards.

Avon also launched their new Emergency Rescue Boat, the ERB 400 rapid deployment craft, at the exhibition. The ERB is intended for initial flood relief and rescue (rather than recovery) and the packed size is such that it can be stored in an emergency truck or fire tender. The compact dimensions and ease of handling also makes for ease of transport by air for longer distance deployment. Powered by a tiller 30hp water pumpjet outboard for shallow water conditions, the ERB can be inflated from valise stowage with a standard diver’s air cylinder in less than three minutes by a two man crew.