Carson Ribs - Fawley Marine
Carson Ribs have been the choice of professionals since 1983. Steve and Caroline Harvey of Fawley Marine, together with Barry Carson's knowledge and expertise, are now manufacturing these reliable and seaworthy RIBs. Barry has recently changed his main career direction to that of a barrister (one of his lifelong ambitions).

The Carson's hallmark deep V gull wing hull design gives increased reserved buoyancy and resistance to bow stuffing in severe sea conditions. I remember very well one of his 6.5m models crewed by the MoD 'plods' (military police) winning the inaugural Round Scotland Rib Challenge trophy. The deep hull and wide beam makes the Carson a suitable contender for a wide variety of duties.

A 9m model named "Pressman" was doing its on water demo. This craft, fitted with twin 370hp Yanmar diesels and driven by twin Hamilton jets, could remarkably stop in its own boat length, turn thro' 180 degrees and meet its own bow wave spray on the return. Awesome!

Datema IJmuiden
Located on the North sea coast of Holland, Datema IJmuiden is the Dutch leading RIB and workboat designer and manufacturer.

Datema develops and manufactures GRP composite and aluminium RIBs in various lengths between 4 and 16 metres and builds under SOLAS, IMO, NOGEPA and certified by either Bureau Veritas or Lloyds.

DBA - RRIB
One of the most interesting little craft (5.3m) at the exhibition. Designated the RRIB 530 and titled the Rubber Rigid Inflatable Boat it was always going to intrigue!

Developed with military and commercial operational demands in mind, the boat has several features that remedy shortfalls in other inflatable boat designs. With its inflatable hull, keel and floor it offers substantial improvement in boat handling and seakeeping performance. The hull shape is a mirror image of a standard 5.3M (solid) RIB with a 22 degree deadrise but is inflated, it even has two spray rails.

An extremely compact design ensures that this piece of kit together with outboard will fit comfortably in the back of the average estate car.

For anyone who would like a DVD of this remarkable little craft being prepared for launch and operation in 90 secs, email me at: editor@hotribs.com