What is the reason for the full wrap around tubes?

[zip]

I just found a H733 for sale with the tubes that wrap all around the whole boat.
It sure does look strange.
Anyone have any idea what is behind this design?

[Bigtalljv]

Bumper boats!!

I thought I heard/read it was flotation for the OB versions when being hoisted on/off ships.

Jason

[zip]

That seems kind of strange.

[Bigtalljv]

Weight distribution on a hoist is different from a diesel and there was more of a chance and worse consequences if the OB swamps.

Or I could be making s#&!t up. Too many blows to the head playing football tends to combine unrelated info in my head

Edit, http://www.rib.net/forum/f45/zodiac-...3-a-31001.html

I was close, not hoist, stern launch apparently.

Jason

[RyanPratt]

Stern Launch +1

[zip]

ok, I understand the concept, but it sure looks funny.

[Nos4r2]

It's not the first-the old Dunlop ribs had odd tubes too. Not quite as odd as those though.