Choosing a swimmer for one person or a small company often comes down to a dilemma of reliability or mobility. RIB 370It's not just a bouncy boat with a back-bottom, but a full-fledged hybrid that combines the rigidity of the hull and the softness of inflatable tubes, and unlike all-metal counterparts, it's easier to transport, but it keeps great driving performance on the wave.
Many of the water engines are moving to RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) It's the moment when they play with the classic aluminum flat-bottoms, 3.7 meters long, it's not a random number, it's the moment when the boat can carry an outboard motor of up to 30 horsepower, while still being light enough to carry in the trunk of the crossover. Hard body fiberglass or composite provides stability, and inflatable sides extinguish blows to the water, making the stroke soft even in the headwind.
Considering RIB 370It's important to understand that you're not just buying a flask, but a serious tool for navigation. There's no flexing plywood floor that turns rowing into torture. You get a full-fledged keeliness that allows you to glid confidently. For anglers and divers, this is often a crucial factor, because the stability at anchor and when you catch trophies here is fundamentally different, more predictable and reliable.
Structural features and materials of the body
The basis of any model of RIB 370 is a V-shaped body, made of fiberglass or composite materials. This shape not only gives the boat a great appearance, but also provides a great look. seaworthinessWhen you're moving at speed, the body is cutting through the wave rather than sloshing on it, as is the case with flat-bottomers, which reduces the load on the crew's spine and reduces the risk of being hit by water when going out for glides.
The cylinders are made of multi-layer reinforced PVC, which is resistant to ultraviolet, gasoline and mechanical damage. cylinder-stuff It has a density of at least 1100 g/sq.m. This ensures that the boat will last for many years even when actively operating in salt water or in contact with rocky bottom. It is important to note that the inflatable sides serve as a powerful shock absorber, which is especially valuable when mooring to unequipped shores.
The secrets of stitching
Current RIB 370 systems often use hot vulcanization, which creates a monolithic compound that is stronger than the material itself, and it is almost impossible to break the seam without direct mechanical damage by a sharp object.
Inside the cockpit, you'll usually have a runduk or paiola covering the inside of the rigid housing, and it's a space that's perfect for storage. lifejacketSome manufacturers make removable floorboards, which makes it easier to access the insides of the boat for drying or repair, but it is worth remembering that a fully sealed rund is always a plus, as it adds additional buoyancy in an emergency.
Comparison of RIB 370 with classic PVC boats
When it comes to buying, many people fluctuate between a classic inflatable floor boat (NDB) and a RIB. The main difference is the hardness of the bottom. In a conventional PVC boat, you depend on the pressure in the cylinders and the hardness of the floorboards. boat RIB 370 The bottom is a monolith. It gives you a tremendous advantage in handling, because the boat doesn't scroll as hard, it keeps its course better, and it allows you to go faster at the same power.
But there's the flip side of the coin, which is the weight and dimensions assembled. If you can put NDNDT in a single backpack weighing 30-40 kg, RIB will require more space. The rigid body can't be folded, it can only be flipped over or put on its side, so if you're planning frequent trips on public transport or you have a very small car, this can be a crucial factor. Transportation The RIB requires a roof trunk or trailer, although the 370 models often fit into station wagons with seats folded down.
The RIB 370 beats the classic PVC boats in comfort and safety, but loses in compact storage.
In terms of durability, the hard case benefits from the inflatable floor. Plywood paioles can eventually dissipate from moisture, and the inflatable floor can lose geometry (the hammock effect). boats RIB 370 It doesn't absorb water, it doesn't deform, and it keeps its geometrical parameters throughout its life, which is especially important for maintaining performance.
Selection of outboard motor and technical specifications
For a length of 3.7 meters and the appropriate displacement, the best choice will be an outboard motor with a capacity of 15 to 30 hp Motors of lower power, for example, 9.9 hp, will also cope with the task, but you will not be able to fully appreciate the potential of planing, especially with two passengers on board. Engine power directly affects the ability of the boat to go to the plane with full load and overcome the oncoming wave.
When choosing a motor, you should pay attention to the length of a lower unit. For RIBs, a long leg is usually recommended, since the height of the transom is often standardized for this parameter for better streamlinedness. Installing a short-legged motor can lead to cavitation and loss of traction. Also important is the weight of the engine: two-stroke models are lighter, which is critical for transportation, but four-stroke is quieter and more economical, which is important for long fishing.
The table below shows the approximate speed specifications depending on the power of the installed engine at a load of 150 kg:
| Engine power (hp) | Motor type | Speed (km/h) | Fuel consumption (L/h) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 | two-stroke | 35-40 | 5-6 |
| 20 | two-stroke | 42-48 | 7-8 |
| 30 | four-stroke | 50-55 | 8-9 |
| 40 | four-stroke | 55-60 | 10-12 |
It is important to bear in mind that maximum capacityThe limit value is specified by the manufacturer, and the maximum operating capacity is only allowed in calm water and with ideal weight distribution. For everyday use, it is better to leave a power reserve of about 20%, which will extend the life of both the engine and the transom of the boat.
Use an anti-cavitation stove or hydraulic lift on the motor, which will improve plane output and stability, especially at low speeds, which is often necessary when trolling.
Comfort and ergonomics on the water
Staying on the water for several hours requires a comfortable landing. RIB 370 The inflatable sides are a great backrest if you lean back. However, for full comfort, manufacturers often offer optional soft linings or special seat banks with mounts. The hard bottom allows you to confidently navigate the cockpit without fear of falling over, which is especially important when fishing actively or installing additional equipment.
The cockpit space in the 370 is large enough to accommodate three adults without feeling crowded. ergonomics It's designed to have the center of gravity at the optimum point, so it prevents the nose from burrowing into the wave when you're going against the wind, and the fact that you have a well-designed lintel arc and the ability to install a tent makes this boat a full-fledged pleasure boat that can protect you from the scorching sun or the sudden rain.
☑️ Checking before getting on the water
And the sound insulation is really important, because inflatable boards are really good at quenching the noise of the water and the splash of the waves, making the conversation in the boat comfortable even on the go. Unlike aluminum boats, where the sound of the motor and the water is reflected from the metal boards, there is relative silence in the RIB. acoustical advantage It is highly valued by anglers, as fish are less frightened by foreign sounds.
Transport and storage of the craft
Logistics is a big concern for the RIB owner. As mentioned, the rigid hull dictates its rules. Transportation on the roof of the car requires the use of special mounts with soft lozenges to avoid damaging the gelcoat or plastic. The weight of the boat can be as high as 80-100 kg with the engine, so loading often requires two people or the presence of a wheel trailer.
When stored in the winter RIB 370 Although modern materials are frost-resistant, extreme temperature changes and cold storage can lead to microcracks, the ideal place is a dry garage or heated room, if this is not possible, the boat should be thoroughly washed, dried and covered with a breathable awning, protecting against direct sunlight, which is the main enemy of PVC.
⚠️ Attention: Never keep a RIB boat fully pumped in direct sunlight in the summer, and the pressure inside the cylinders can rise critically, causing the seams to rupture or the hull to deform.
For those without a garage, there are special awning covers that protect the boat from dust and precipitation directly on the trailer or suspension system. Regularly washing the hull with fresh water after going into salt water is mandatory. The salt, drying on the surface, forms crystals that can act as abrasive, scratching the surface and accelerating the aging of the material.
How to Wash Rib Properly
Use only a soft sponge and special care products for PVC and fiberglass. Avoid aggressive chemicals, solvents and hard brushes. After washing, it is recommended to treat the cylinders with a protective compound with a UV filter.
Operational and safety recommendations
Water safety is the number one priority, although it is a high-quality RIB 370 It's very stable and almost unsinkable because of the many compartments, you can't ignore the rules. Always carry a scoop and a running pump. Even the most reliable boat can get water from splashes, rain or sloppy crew.
The weight distribution of passengers and cargo should be uniform, shifting the center of gravity towards one side can lead to rolling and reduced handling, which is especially dangerous at high speed or in strong side winds. Passenger capacity The above mentioned in the documentation is not just so – exceeding the limit of people reduces the height of the board above the water, making the boat vulnerable to flooding with a wave.
⚠️ Attention: It is forbidden to operate a boat at a pressure in cylinders below 0.2 atm. Insufficient pressure reduces the rigidity of the structure, increases the risk of damage to the water cylinders and impairs the handling of the vessel.
Regular inspection of valves and seams should become a habit, and before each season, it is recommended to conduct a full inflated test for 24 hours, which will help to identify slow punctures that are not noticeable immediately, timely repair of minor damage will prevent serious problems away from shore.
The main guarantee of long service of RIB 370 is the correct pressure in the cylinders, uniform distribution of cargo and storage in a sun-protected place.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use the RIB 370 for diving?
Yes, it's one of the best diving platforms, hard bottoms that allow you to wear your gear comfortably, and wide cylinders that provide stability when you go out and get on board, but you have to consider the loading capacity limit when you're fully loaded with cylinders.
What is the minimum weight of the engine required to enter plane?
For one person weighing up to 90 kg, the output to the plane is possible already with a 9.9 hp engine For two people or if there is an additional load, a motor with a capacity of 15 hp is recommended for confident plane.
Do I need to register the boat RIB 370 in GIMS?
Registration depends on the mass of the motorized vessel in use. If the total weight of the boat with the engine and equipment exceeds 200 kg, registration is mandatory. Also, the engine power is taken into account: if it exceeds 8 kW (about 10.88 hp), the boat is subject to registration regardless of weight. For a RIB 370 with a 15 hp engine, registration is likely to be required.
How long does the boat dry after use?
Drying time depends on weather conditions. On a sunny windy day, the boat will dry in 2-3 hours. In cloudy weather, the process can take up to 24 hours. It is important for RIBs to dry not only the cylinders, but also the interior space under the floorboards to avoid mold.
Is it possible to make RBI 370 independently?
Theoretically possible, but in practice extremely difficult and expensive: you need to make a matrix for a fiberglass case, purchase quality reinforced PVC and the availability of gluing skills, it is easier and safer to purchase a finished certified product that guarantees safety on the water.