RIB sailing, freshwater VS saltwater: what you need to know
Introduction
Exploring vast expanses of water, whether fresh or salt, offers unique experiences.
For RIB owners, the crucial question arises: How do you sail with confidence in these two distinct environments?
Let's delve into the details and discover the nuances of RIB sailing in fresh and salt water.
Equipment : What to look out for
The trailer
Navigating between fresh and salt water requires a robust trailer, ready to face the challenges of any environment.
Opt for an aluminum trailer, a strategic choice to counter marine corrosion. Aluminum is more resistant to salt water than galvanized steel. This robustness guarantees the safe, durable transport of your RIB.
In addition to the choice of material, regular maintenance is essential. After each launch, introduce the ritual of washing with fresh water. This eliminates potentially corrosive salt and extends the life of your trailer. Pay particular attention to areas in direct contact with salt water, such as wheels, axles and exposed metal parts.
The braking system
Your trailer's braking system is an often overlooked but crucial element in your boat's safety, especially when you're navigating between fresh and salt water.
The choice between drum and disc brakes can have an impact on performance, particularly in salt water.
Drum brakes, although less expensive, can suffer from salt water build-up compromising their efficiency.
Disc brakes, on the other hand, offer a more accessible and easy-to-maintain alternative , often preferable for offshore sailing.
Whatever your choice, brakes will be exposed to salt water when launching and out on the water. Careful rinsing with fresh water after each use is therefore essential to prolong the life of your braking system.
Anodes
In the marine environment, corrosion is a constant threat to your boat. That's where anodes come in.
Anodes are pieces of metal strategically placed on your boat, mainly in aluminum to cope with salt water. Their essential job: to attract corrosion to them, thus protecting the crucial parts of your boat.
How does it work? The metals in the anodes, likealuminum, take on the corrosion, preserving the hull, propeller and other metal parts. They sacrifice themselves to prolong the life of your boat.
But they do have their limits. Over time, anodes wear out and need to be replaced regularly. It's a little maintenance that makes a big difference.
Regular monitoring and timely replacement of anodes are therefore simple but essential steps to ensure your boat's longevity in salt water.
The engine
As far as engines are concerned, outboards are well-suited to salt water, but require regular maintenance rituals.
After each run, rinse the motor thoroughly with fresh water.
Sterndrives (a type of marine propulsion where the inboard motor is combined with an outboard steering system), on the other hand, require even greater attention. As they have a submerged section, they require more frequent replacement of components in salt water. Unlike outboards, sterndrives don't usually tip out of the water, which means that submerged components need to be carefully maintained.
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Pneumatic bladders
In freshwater, the inflatable bladders of a RIB can generally remain in good condition for longer, as freshwater is less corrosive. However, regular cleaning is essential to remove any dirt, debris and residues that may accumulate.
In salt water, where corrosion is more likely, more frequent flushing with fresh water after each run is crucial. This helps prevent salt build-up, which can damage flange material over the long term.
The occasional application of a protective product recommended by the manufacturer can also help extend the life of the flanges, by providing an additional barrier against the corrosive effects of salt water.
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The paint
After a few weeks in freshwater, the boat's hull can already begin to accumulate deposits, although these are generally less significant than in saltwater.
At sea, exposure to marine elements can lead to rapid growth of organisms such as algae, shellfish and other marine life.
Antifouling paint is specially designed to prevent these marine organisms from adhering to the boat's hull.
It creates a smooth surface that makes it difficult for marine deposits to attach, making them easier to remove during cleaning. Investing in quality antifouling paint can considerably reduce the time and effort needed to keep your RIB's hull in top condition.
Note that some paints are specifically formulated for aluminum hulls, while others are better suited to fiberglass hulls.
Consulting the recommendations of both the paint manufacturer and your boat manufacturer is essential to ensure proper application and long-lasting results. It's also a good idea to renew the paint coat according to the manufacturer's recommendations to maintain optimum protection against marine deposits.
Safety equipment
Safety equipment requirements may vary between fresh and salt water.
In general, regulations for navigation at sea are often stricter due to the potentially more difficult conditions.
Compliance with local and national regulations is crucial to safety on board, whether in freshwater or at sea.
Some basic elements, such as life jackets, signaling devices and fire extinguishers, are generally required in both environments, but there may be specific requirements depending on local authorities.
We recommend that you check the regulations in force in the region where you are sailing.
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Navigation: Differences between fresh and salt water
Permits
Boating on freshwater, such as lakes and rivers, often requires an "eaux intérieures" boating license in France. This license tests your knowledge of river navigation, the rules specific to inland waterways, and inland waterway safety.
For navigation at sea, a "coastal" boating license is generally required. This license covers all aspects of coastal navigation, including tide management, knowledge of lights and beacons, and safety rules specific to coastal areas and small islands.
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Visibility
Freshwater, whether from lakes or rivers, generally offers clearer visibility. The clarity of the water makes it easier to observe the bottom and detect obstacles.
At sea, on the other hand, visibility can vary due to the presence of salt and other elements. Captains have to contend with conditions that are sometimes less than transparent, requiring extra vigilance.
Funds and maneuvers
In freshwater, bottoms are often composed of softer soils, such as mud or sand. These conditions can make maneuvering smoother, facilitating mooring and movement.
However, in salt water, the seabed is more diverse, ranging from sand to rocks and reefs. This variety calls for extra caution on the part of skippers when maneuvering to avoid damaging the boat.
A thorough knowledge of local nautical charts is essential to anticipate variations in the seabed and ensure safe navigation, especially in unfamiliar areas.
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Signage
Lakes and rivers are generally equipped with clear signposting systems, including bathing areas, harbours and routes to follow.
At sea, signage can be more numerous and complex, marking fishing zones, shipping lanes, islands and sandbanks.
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Weather conditions
Weather conditions in freshwater can be more stable, with less tidal influence. However, heavy rainfall can affect river levels.
At sea, captains have to deal with tides, waves and currents. Weather conditions can change rapidly, requiring constant adaptation.
Conclusion
Outfitting your RIB for freshwater or saltwater cruising requires a thorough understanding of the nuances specific to each environment.
Equipment choices and maintenance practices become invaluable allies for hassle-free marine voyages.
Happy sailing, whether the waters are fresh or salt!
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