9.2 metre SAR RIB provides secure rescue platform

The 9.2 metre long LarsenB RIB 920 SAR is designed for operations in the most extreme conditions with a cockpit layout that can be tailored to suit the operational conditions. This ability to match the boat to its operational employment makes this new design suitable for a wide variety of operations including advanced SAR duties. These include regatta assistance and patrol, diving trips, passenger transport for up to 12 passengers, extreme weather island commuting and offshore patrol duties.

With a length of 9.2 metres and a beam of 2.8 metres this new RIB design features inflatable tubes that are made from welded PVC for durability. The centre hull is constructed from advanced composites with a self-draining cockpit and the builders claim that it is unsinkable.

The RIB is powered by outboards up to a maximum of 300hp and these can be in single or twin configuration. The engines are mounted on an aluminium engine bracket and would be long shaft units for a twin installation or extra long shaft for a single engine. Fuel is carried in a 300 litre tank mounted under the cockpit deck.

A wheelhouse is fitted amidships and this extends to the full width of the deck with construction in composites and with the structure surrounded by a tubular aluminium cage. This cage offers both protection from impact and also provides extensive handholds that give security to the crew when moving about the boat.

A wide variety of optional equipment and layouts are available for outfitting this wheelhouse. These include suspension jockey seats that help to give the crew a smooth ride in adverse conditions with space inside the wheelhouse for three of these seats but the layout can be configured to suit crew numbers. Double doors at the rear of the wheelhouse give access to the aft cockpit where a towing post can be installed.

An extended version of the wheelhouse features a small compartment in the front with access via a lifting door. This can be used to house a chemical toilet or even a sleeping berth adding to the versatility of the design.