Buoyant, forgiving and remarkably capable, the inflatable boat has carried explorers, rescuers and yacht guests alike. Today, the RIB has become a refined boat in its own right.
What RIBs and inflatables are
An inflatable boat uses air filled tubes for buoyancy, with a soft or semi rigid floor. A rigid inflatable boat, or RIB, pairs a solid fiberglass or aluminum hull with inflatable or foam filled tubes around the sides. The tubes add stability and act as a cushion when coming alongside a dock or another yacht, and the hull delivers a drier, more confident ride.
Who it suits
Small inflatables suit owners who need a compact tender. RIBs suit yacht owners who want a capable tender, and boaters who want a stable, buoyant boat for coastal exploring. Larger luxury RIBs are increasingly used as stylish day boats and superyacht tenders.
Typical sizes and layouts
Inflatables and RIBs range from small tenders under 10 feet to luxury models over 40 feet. Larger RIBs may include a center console, bench or jockey seating, a sun pad and even a small cabin.
Strengths and tradeoffs
Strengths: stability, buoyancy, gentle contact at the dock and a light weight for the size.
Tradeoffs: tubes age in strong sun and need care, and seating can be less plush than on a traditional boat.
On Tampa Bay and the Gulf Coast
RIBs and inflatables are well suited to ferrying guests from anchor to the beach. Covers and UV resistant tube materials help them last in the Florida sun.
How it compares
Compared with a hard dinghy, a RIB is more stable and forgiving alongside a yacht. Compared with a soft inflatable, it rides drier and handles a chop with more confidence.
Buying tips
- Check tube material, seams and valves, and ask about the tube's age.
- Inspect the hull and transom on RIBs.
- We highly recommend an independent survey on larger RIBs.
Explore your options
If you are choosing a RIB as a tender or a day boat, we would love to help you compare.
Selling your RIB? Michael lists and markets boats like yours to qualified buyers across Florida and the USA.
Talk with Michael about a RIB or inflatable
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