Self launch RIB

[pmather]

Hi,

I'm brand new to the forum and have been looking at either Jet Ski's / RIB's for some weekend fun.

I was at Bridlington yesterday and was amzed to see what I can only describer as a self launching RIB. - Basically the Rib was supported by 3 x "balloon" type tyres which raised the craft a good couple of feet above sand level. One or all of the wheels were "driven" as the craft was self propelling along the beach by some form of engine. (I don't think it was the outboard).

As the craft carefully entered the water and went deeper the 2 x rear wheels appeared lift clear and locate somehow on the end of the tubes. - I don't know what happened to the single front wheel which I assumed was the "driving" wheel. The craft then rapidly disspeared ! - I was actually looking at all this action from the cliff-top on south beach car park so I didn't have the opportunity to talk with the owner.

I would be most grateful if you could identify this piece of kit - is it an aftermarket "add-on" or part of the original craft design ? - I was really impressed !

[Polwart]

sounds like a "Sealegs" amphibious rib.

[pmather]

Hi - thanks for the swift reply !

I've just googled it and found out all I need to know - I think they may be a little out of my price range ! - like the idea though

[BogMonster]

Great idea and I'd love one but they are getting on for twice the price of the same size RIB without wheels!

[xR33]

I saw one of these coming in at HillHead beach. It drove straight up over the shingle and into the owners back garden. Really impressive .

Edit - There's a cheap(ish) one here for sale..... http://www.theyachtmarket.com/boats_for_sale/57921/

[tonymac]

You learn something every day!!

Never knew something like this existed!!

[Bam Bam]

Sealegs are great if you want to throw the boat in over a rough or sandy shore and don't have a Land Rover. I can imagine they will be extremely expensive on servicing too. You can launch from Bridlington for about £26 (there are much cheaper places) and they tow the boat and trailer over the sand by tractor, well worth it. There are loads of other places with slipways though that are easy to launch from so save your money and just get a regular RIB and tow it with the car. It's great fun, especially when you use the forum to plan a day's activity with other like minded RIB'sters.