VESSEL REVIEW | Durable rescue RIB delivered to Maine firefighting volunteers

The Greene Volunteer Fire Department of the town of Greene in Maine's Androscoggin County recently welcomed a new rigid inflatable boat (RIB) into service.

Built by Ribcraft USA, the specialised RIB expands the department's response capabilities while providing a safe platform for rescue missions. Funded by a grant through non-profit organisation Firehouse Subs, Ribcraft worked with the department to build a boat that met all of their operational requirements.

Heavy duty RIB built for emergency response

As Androscoggin County is surrounded with numerous lakes and rivers, the department receives many distress calls from recreational boaters. RIbcraft therefore worked with the local fire chief to understand the department's needs and outfit the boat to meet mission requirements.

"Like all our other RIBs, this boat was designed to fulfil the most demanding professional applications," the builder told Baird Maritime. "Our RIBs are therefore built to withstand heavy-duty offshore 24/7 commercial use. They can also fulfil a variety of security applications such as patrol and rescue."

Compliance with industry recognised standards is indicated by Ribcraft's proprietary deep-V commercial grade FRP hull, full length lifting strakes, a pronounced bow sheer, and a multi-chambered Hypalon tube with two sets of boarding patches and grab handles.

"The tube ensures that the RIB provides a durable, stable, and seaworthy platform regardless of sea conditions," added Ribcraft.

The boat is capable of planing with ease and executing tight corner turns without skidding, allowing operators to have greater control when responding quickly to calls.

Quick deployment capability even at unprepared beaches

The RIB has a length of 15.6 feet (4.75 metres), a beam of 6.9 feet (2.1 metres), a minimum draught of one foot (0.3 metre), and space for six crewmembers and other personnel, such as rescued survivors. The boat can be easily launched via trailer or hoisted and towed aboard a larger vessel.

The boat also features a forward positioned centre console with attached pod seat, an aluminium antenna arch with an integrated dive ladder, transom bollards, and a keel guard. Powered by a 50hp (37kW) Yamaha petrol outboard, the boat can reach speeds of just under 22 knots.

"This new boat will allow the Greene Volunteer Fire Department to better serve the community by reaching more on-water areas that were previously inaccessible," said Ribcraft, highlighting the RIB's ability to also operate as a deployable surf rescue craft.

Other key features include tube pressure relief valves, an anchor locker, an electrical panel, navigation lights, an electric bilge pump, and a moulded non-skid deck for greater safety.