Choosing a new dive RIB

[allen]

Hi all

We're looking to replace one of our RIBs and, apart from a brief flirt with a BWM, have always had Humbers. I was wondering what other manufacturer's were popular with dive clubs and any pros and cons that you may have encountered?

Many thanks

Allen

[tim griffin]

XS Ribs by Barnett Marine Medium v at the stern but affordable full tubes PVC Tubes popular with some dive schools
Ribcraft well built solid craft excellent sea keeping expensive Hypalon Tubes
RIB X Built in S Afric shipped to UK well made full tubes Hypalon tubes
Solent Ribs Tapered tubes more sporty but will do full tubes fast hull narrow beam can take smaller engines due to light weight
Tornado well built uk rib full tubes PVC great Sea Keeping
Parker Ribs similar in Hull design to BWM although improved excellent fit out build quality full tubes hypalon .
Gemini S Africa built wide beam good load carrying.
Delta well built but tend to be more larger and for commercial use
Alot will depend on size required and size you can afford alway's a trade off and what electronics you want to fit and dive areas visited will you trail it then size dependent ie Length and beam or will you keep it local
All IMHO .
But have been on all of the above all good in one way or another first decide on your budjet to include every thing and then narrow it down to the size of boat that fits.
Happy Hunting Tim

[Andy (treerat)]

I think the post above just about covers it - especially if you include Avon in the mix.
Andy

[GaryC]

I would have thought that one of the considerations will be the location of the manufacturers. When I was looking at getting one made, I did a tour of the factories and had a look at stuff being made, and stuff that had been completed. Then with a pinch of reliability information could make a decision.

[graham nurse]

Tornado are now made in China. The old British built ones are very good built like brick out houses, what they are like now is any bodies guess.

graham.

[Rod Bateman]

I would avoid a Delta since the design team and owners changed.