October 13, 2008

RIBCRAFT 7.0 On Sea Trial

Check out this footage of a standard 7 Meter shipboard RIB with a foam hybrid tube after successful sea trials.... read more

Posted by ribcraftusa at 02:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 07, 2008

What To Look For When Purchasing A New RIB

People always ask me for advice whether they're an agency, yacht club, or recreational boater whenever they're in the market for a new RIB. Because of this, I've been meaning to post the top things people should consider when buying a RIB, but my colleage Matthew recently beat me to it. He was asked by WindCheck Magazine in their October issue for the top things people should consider when buying a rigid inflatable boat. For those of you thinking about buying a new RIB for yourself or business, take a look at what Matthew had to say - he has some good advice.... read more

Posted by ribcraftusa at 01:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 01, 2008

Tour The Hawaiian Coast by USCG Certified RIB

One of our customers that offers whale watching and eco-tour adventures on the big island of Hawaii posted some beautiful shots of a new tour they're offering to the windward side of the island to Waipio, Waimanu and Pololu Valleys. Truly stunning scenery! Just another location a RIBCRAFT RIB allows you to get to that other boats can't! This location is rarely visited by boat on the big island as the trip is long (over two and half hours) and the entrance to the valley can be dicey. Luckily they're running a USCG Certified RIBCRAFT 9.0. Click Here for a few photos from the tour.... read more

Posted by ribcraftusa at 09:22 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 29, 2008

RIB Winterizing: The Engine

When it comes to preparing your RIB for the winter, the most important thing you can do is to take care of the engine and insure that it is properly winterized. The following is a generic recommended list of things that should be done to the engine, however, I always recommend referring to your engine's owners manual. The list below is intended only as a guide and some steps might not apply to your particular engine. Steering Inspect steering systems, including tiller steering friction fittings on outboards. Tighten them if they're loose. Lubricate steering cable and steering arm Freshwater flush Run the engine use a flushing attachment, or run the outboard in a tank filled with fresh water. Change Engine Oil With the engine warm change oil and oil filter. Be sure to dispose of the used oil at an authorized recycling center Drain and Refill Gearcase Change the lower unit gearcase lubricant on outboards. Even a little water trapped... read more

Posted by ribcraftusa at 03:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 25, 2008

RIB Winterizing: Preparing The Boat For the Off Season

Bottom line, a RIB is no different than a hardsided boat when it comes time to preparing it for the winter or off season. Whether you choose to do it yourself or have your marina or storage facility do it for you, winterizing the boat and motor is probably the most important maintenance you can do to your RIB. For boaters who aren't comfortable doing their own maintenance, all the procedures may be performed by a qualified marine technician at your local boat dealer, just ask them. Taking a little time in the fall to get your boat and motor ready for winter means that you can be one of the first boaters out on the water next spring. The following are some basic general steps to follow to properly winterize you RIB: -Clean boat inside and out and cover when stored, even indoors. Allow for air circulation under the cover to prevent mildew. - Drain water from the bilges... read more

Posted by ribcraftusa at 02:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)