August 9, 2022 Orca Blog

The best accessories for RIB boats

Whether used as tenders or not, semi-rigid boats shine for their versatility. In our article"Why buy a semi-rigid boat?", we already talked about the qualities of these lightweight, surprisingly high-performance boats, such as their great buoyancy, ease of handling and transport, durability and price.

But while the model of a boat matters in terms of the nature of the sea trips you take, the equipment or accessories you choose are just as decisive.

In this article, Orca Retail advises you on all the best accessories and equipment to own to make the most of your inflatable boat's potential.

Fishing in a semi-rigid

Semi-rigid boats are well suited to fishing activities. With a lower waterline than rigid-hulled boats, fishing-loving passengers are both closer to the action but also benefit from more stability.

The first thing to plan for is, of course, fishing rods ! And for added comfort of use or to enjoy a bit of farniente, investing in one or more rod holders (also known as rateliers) seems the B.A-BA. There are many different models, built-in or self-fitting, with or without a protective cap (to prevent rust inside the cane holder), pivoting or not to change the axis, etc. A standard cane holder costs between €15 and €60.

Real anglers won't forget to also invest in a lure stand or bait stand, either attachable or suction cup system, to keep their accessories close at hand.

Depending on your fishing style, you may or may not opt to buy a troll, ideal for mackerel fishing in particular, and if you want to take advantage of the wind and a bit of movement during your session!

fishing accessories

A set of knives for shucking or even lifting fillets may prove interesting to keep your sailors or other budding cooks busy enjoying their catch first-hand (and discarding the unwanted parts at sea rather than in the bin!). When it comes to cooking, there are plenty of options for kitchen accessories that you can take on board your RIB.

You'll be able to find stoves, planchas, BBQs or even small kitchenettes to enjoy freshly caught fish directly (not forgetting mini fridges or the icebox to quench your thirst).

And when it comes to dining, some modular RIBs allow you to switch from an aft deck configuration to a seat + table set, ideal for sharing a meal in complete conviviality.

Naturally, we also advise you to invest in a glacial or any other container that can hold fish. As semi-rigid boats are once again close to the water, you are not safe from escape attempts if you simply put your catch in the boat!

For fishing trips that last, don't forget to protect yourself from the sun! Having a taud mounted on your semi-rigid seems the best solution, otherwise think about chef covers to avoid nasty surprises and sunstroke!

One last piece of advice, and even though we've already planned a good array of accessories, try not to overload your inflatable boat too much with bulky equipment for your fishing trips so that you can get around easily, especially if there are a lot of you.

Relax

If your ambition is more to enjoy the sun and sea to sunbathe, contemplate the horizon and more generally relax, here are which accessories are a must for your RIB :

Bathing decks : most commonly located at the stern, bathing decks are modular spaces that fill the space between bench seats (using an adjustable table, for example) to provide a relaxation area a little like a tatami mat, able to accommodate several people. The bathing beaches are perfect for sunbathing and napping. You should also bring a few cushions (traditional or inflatable) to complete the package.
Ladder : virtually essential for swimmers entering or exiting the water, make sure you choose a model that will be easy for everyone to use (with enough height underwater, for example). Rope or rigid, telescopic, retractable, folding or coming out of a trunk, the possibilities are vast.
Showerhead : if you want to get rid of the salt after swimming, showerheads are a must! To be coupled with a clear water tank, there are showerhead kits at a bit of all prices, depending on the finishes, their discretion, length, etc.
WC marine : for optimum passenger comfort and if the size of your RIB allows.
A radio or speakers: there's nothing nicer than a bit of music to relax to or party to on a boat!
Awnings, parasols, bimini : in short, enough here too to protect you adequately in the event of bad weather or a sunstorm.
Navy crockery : unbreakable to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Doing water sports

Are you more of a thrill seeker? No problem! With their very good acceleration capabilities and great manoeuvrability, semi-rigid boats are ideal for sports such as water skiing, wakeboarding, or any other accessory that can be towed (buoy, banana). So what accessories do you need for water sports in RIBs?

Wakeboard, skis, buoys, bananas (or hot dogs), or other boards, of course.
From the pull rope with a spreader bar (to hold with your hands) of course, to reattach you to the boat. Most ropes used for water sports are buoyant, so make sure this is the case.
A ski pull ring / mooring system / hook / mast to secure the rope attachment.
A mirror : very important ! This is because your RIB boat may not be fitted with one by default, or it may not give you good enough visibility. Being able to keep an eye on what's going on behind you at all times is essential for the safety of sporting activities where people are being dragged.
Safety equipment: lifejackets, buoys, spare ropes, first aid kit for bad falls etc.
An inflator (foot or electric) for equipment such as buoys, and a few patches in case of snags or punctures.

For diving

Semi-rigid boats are closer to the water, making them ideal platforms for divers. Fins, masks, snorkels are obviously a must for fans of "snorkeling". We also recommend buying waterproof bags or pouches if you want to protect fragile items or, for example, take photos underwater.

Having a floating rope is always welcome, especially in configurations with current so divers don't pull your away from the boat.

If you prefer deep diving, you will of course need oxygen cylinders with their regulators, but flashlights are also recommended in gloomy weather or after a few dozen metres of depth.

As for harpoon guns, these will allow you to enjoy the pleasures of underwater hunting!

Finally, all the ordinary necessities for diver safety should also be provided (for calling emergencies in particular).

In all weathers :

Beyond all the accessories listed above, a number of other semi-rigid equipment or accessories will be useful or even vital to you. Whether it's simple living comfort or safety, here's what you'll need :

Sea wear (lifejackets) and buoys
Handrails : for the larger models, to make it easier for you to move around on board.
Marine fire extinguishers
Calle pumps to prevent taking on water.
Flexible tanks
GPS
Flares
Safety lights and lighting
Cigarette lighter sockets for charging your phones or similar (or transportable batteries)
Barometer
Compasses, compasses
Binoculars

Extra:

There are a host of other accessories that allow you to personalise your RIB and the activities it allows you to do. Here are the ones that can make a difference :