'The Italian Job' or DM's new RIB

Keith Hart · 01 July 2003, 16:17

Hi folks

Here are some photographs of David Manning's new RIB. We gave it a good 'shake down' over the weekend on the Pwllheli run.

I's sure DM will fill us in on the fine details but here goes.

It is an Italian made RIB which was originaly the tender for a superyacht. The make is 'Master' and it has a Suzuki 115 hp 2 stroke engine.

The finish is superb and it looks very well put together.

The design of the superstructure is particularly interesting. Just take a look at how the body comes over the top of the tubes. This was VERY handy as it is easy to stand or sit on the sides.

First pic a rear view on DM's driveway.

Keith Hart · 01 July 2003, 16:20

A 3/4 view (just ignore DM and Spiderman). There is a locker under the bench seat. Those sides really made getting in and out of the RIB easy.

Keith Hart · 01 July 2003, 16:28

The top bit of the superstructure (sorry, not very technical) goes right over the nose as well. That would keep the tubes in place if it was stuffed. The front has the fuel tank, a good size locker and an anchor locker. The lockers remained dry throughout. They are designed with a large lip and a drainage channel. There are nice cushions fitted (see picture of Spiderman sleeping on the bow in chart thread). There is even a niche for the anchor line to run through so the lid can remained closed.

Keith Hart · 01 July 2003, 16:33

The console is fully integrated in the superstructure moulding and all of the fibreglass work is of a high quality and nice finish. There are also lockers at the front and side of the console. These also remained dry.

Take a look at how the locker seals. There is a recess with a double lip with a rubber seal inside. Very well designed and also very effective. You can gain access for maintenance through this hatch as well.

Keith Hart · 01 July 2003, 16:40

The transom was very well designed and allowed access to the engine whilst the boat was afloat. It was also very dry and did not get swamped.

Keith Hart · 01 July 2003, 16:48

It gave a safe feeling and soft ride. Look how the superstructure goes over the rather square nose.

Keith Hart · 01 July 2003, 16:50

Okay DM, over to you for the rest of the details please....

Keith (impressed) Hart

whitingiom · 01 July 2003, 16:53

I am impressed.......

I thought Italian boats were for buzzing round the Med in a 1ft chop?

And bench seats?

Come on DM, tell us more...

Keith Hart · 01 July 2003, 16:55

I think you'll find that the bench seats get modified...

Keith Hart

Aging Youth · 02 July 2003, 07:07

Hi Dave,

I must say you kept that very quiet in Plymouth. Come on spill the beans

Nice looking piece of kit, but I hope not as tempermental as some Italian bits of kit

Regards

DM · 02 July 2003, 10:37

Thanks for the pics and description, Keefy. Not a lot to add really. Not a lot of people know this but the boat was found under a tarp in a warehouse in deepest Worcestershire and came at a very nice price. I was a bit concerned about its performance as I usually go for something a bit more workmanlike but on the Pwhelli run, it handled like a thoroughbred giving 150NM for approx 150ltrs of fuel. Top speed was 36kn at 5500rpm although its probably under propped as it will rev to 6000.

It seems to be the illegitimate offspring of a mating between a sportsboat and rib giving the best of both worlds. Plenty of dry storage space, sportsboat transom with a boarding ladder, proper anchor roller and excellent grp protection for the 20'' tubes.

I have added extra fuel capacity and a fixed VHF and plan to alter the bench seat for something a bit better although it does give a safe driving position as you're surrounded by the A frame sides.

For further info see...Nessun Dorma

whitingiom · 02 July 2003, 12:21

How do you turn the music off on that site!

I have the mute sign up but all the office is still looking at me!

Charles · 02 July 2003, 15:41

Grrrr.....what is this SPIDERMAN thing all about??

Keith Hart · 02 July 2003, 15:49

Hi Charles

I'll explain all on a separate thread...

Keith (the web) Hart