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RIB, Rigid Inflatable Boat, 4.9 meter, Formally Royal Navy
This is your chance to acquire a piece of British Maritime
history in the shape of an early example of a Royal Navy 4.9m rigid inflatable
manufactured by “Lifeguard Equipment Ltd” of Ruthin, Clwyd. Although modified
and repaired over her life, she is very robustly constructed, the tubes are
good and hold air, the Johnson 60HP engine starts easily and runs well, she is
on a good trailer with good tyres. The consul has a waterproof switch panel and
floodlight, space for two “Barrus” 25 litre petrol tanks (although there is
only one included in this sale), the battery and a bit of extra storage space.
She comes complete with two paddles, an arch fitted with working navigation
lights and an anchor with chain and rope. The transom is supported by a
stainless frame which doubles as a “kitting up” seat for divers.
Yes, she is old!! Indeed, when I purchased her, I was told that
she had been used to deliver Royal Marines into the marshes of Sothern Iraq
during the gulf war, I only have that anecdotally but she is the right age and
spec. Finished in utilitarian black and
grey her military origins are obvious making her curiosity and a talking point
on the slipway. The Johnson 60HP isn’t original, it’s a bit scruffy but starts
and runs and had a new water pump fitted last year, the boat can trot along at
just under 30 knots depending on load. Currently she is inclined to be low at
the transom, perhaps a lighter engine or as the tubes are supported by adjustable
straps her trim could be improved. As you would expect she has bumps and scrapes, some of the tubes rubber
bumps have perished and could do with renewal and the keel could do with a sand
and paint.
Bought as a dive boat for me and the kids until they grew up
and went on their way so she has had little use recently. The boat is situated
in Tavistock West Devon about 15 miles inland from Plymouth, the trailer is
roadworthy (you’ll need a light board and straps). Cash on collection.
No reserve.
Current Price: £800.00
This Rib, Rigid Inflatable Boat, 4.9 Meter, Formally Royal Navy may be available on ebay