RIB sailing, freshwater VS saltwater: what you need to know
Introduction
Exploring the vast expanses of water, whether freshwater or saltwater, offers unique experiences.
For RIB boat owners, the crucial question arises: How do you sail with confidence in these two distinct environments?
Let's dive into the details to discover the nuances of RIB navigation in fresh and salt water.
Equipment: What to pay attention to
La remorque
Navigating between fresh and salt water requires a robust trailer, ready to face the challenges of every environment.
Opt for a aluminum trailer, a strategic choice to counter marine corrosion. Aluminum offers superior resistance to salt water compared to galvanized steel. This sturdiness 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 practice 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
The braking system on your trailer is an often overlooked but crucial element for the safety of your boat, especially when sailing between fresh and salt water.
The choice between drum and disc brakes can impact performance, especially 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 cruising.
Whichever you choose, the brakes will be exposed to salt water during launches and outings. Careful rinsing with fresh water after each use is therefore essential to prolong the life of your braking system.
The anodes
In the marine environment, corrosion threatens your boat. That's where the anodes come in.
Anodes are pieces of metal strategically placed on your boat, mainly aluminum to cope with salt water. Their essential job: attract corrosion to them, protecting crucial parts of your boat.
How does it work? The metals in the anodes, such as aluminum, take the corrosion upon themselves, preserving the hull, propeller, and other metal parts. They make sacrifices to prolong the life of your boat.
But beware, they 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 saltwater.
The engine
As far as motors are concerned, outboards are well suited to saltwater, but they do require regular maintenance rituals.
After each outing, meticulously flush the motor with fresh water.
Sterndrives (a type of marine propulsion where the inboard motor is combined with an outboard means of steering), on the other hand, require even greater attention. Since they have an immersed part, they require more frequent replacement of components in salt water. Contrary to outboards, sterndrives generally don't tip out of the water, which means careful maintenance of submerged components.
Pneumatic bladders
In freshwater, the pneumatic bladders of a RIB can generally stay in good condition longer, as freshwater is less corrosive. However, it is essential to clean them regularly to remove dirt, debris and residues that may accumulate.
In salt water, where corrosion is more likely, more frequent rinsing of the flanges with fresh water after each outing is crucial. This helps prevent salt build-up, which can damage the flange material in the long term.
The occasional application of a protective product recommended by the manufacturer can also help extend the life of the flanges, providing an additional barrier against the corrosive effects of salt water.
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Paint
After a few weeks in freshwater, the boat's hull can already start 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 is 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.
Beware, some paint types are specifically formulated for aluminum hulls, while others are better suited to fiberglass hulls.
Consulting the recommendations of 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 coat of paint according to the manufacturer's recommendations to maintain optimum protection against marine deposits.
Safety equipment
Safety equipment requirements may vary between freshwater and sea.
In general, regulations for sailing at sea are often stricter due to the potentially more difficult conditions.
It's crucial to comply with local and national rules to ensure safety on board, whether in freshwater or at sea.
Some basic items, such as life jackets, signaling devices and fire extinguishers, are generally required in both environments, but specifics may exist depending on local authorities.
It is advisable to check the regulations in force in the region where you are sailing.
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Navigation: Differences between freshwater and sea
The license
Freshwater boating, such as on lakes and rivers, often requires a permis plaisance "eaux intérieures" in France. This permit tests your knowledge of river navigation, the rules specific to inland waterways, and inland waterway safety.
For navigation at sea, the "coastal"pleasure permit 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 easy 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 deal with conditions that are sometimes less transparent, requiring increased vigilance.
Bottoms and maneuvers
In freshwater, bottoms are often composed of softer soils, such as mud or sand. These conditions can make maneuvering smoother, facilitating docking and moving.
However, in saltwater, seabeds are 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 for anticipating seabed variations and ensuring safe navigation, especially in less familiar areas.
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Signalétiques
Lakes and rivers generally have clear signage systems, including bathing areas, harbors and routes to follow.
At sea, signage can be more numerous and complex, marking fishing zones, shipping lanes, and signalling the presence of islands or sandbanks.
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Weather conditions
Freshwater weather conditions 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 sea currents. Weather conditions can change rapidly, requiring constant adaptation.
Conclusion
Equipping your RIB for freshwater or offshore sailing requires a thorough understanding of the nuances specific to each environment.
Equipment choices and maintenance practices become invaluable allies for hassle-free marine voyages.
Good sailing, whether the waters are fresh or salt!
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