Zodiac Introduces New SOLAS Standard Rescue Boat

Oct. 19, 2010 - PRLog -- With an overall length of 4.5 metres (14ft 9 ins) it replaces Zodiac’s RIBO 420 and provides ship owners with a high quality RIB that is fully compliant with the revised IMO MSC 81(70) SOLAS requirements that came into force on 1 July.

The new RIBO 450 is slightly longer than its predecessor as it now includes the ability to accommodate a standard SOLAS specified stretcher. The tubes have also been upgraded and are manufactured from Zodiac’s top specification neoprene / hypalon fabric and the entire boat, tubes and hull, has greater fire retardant capabilities.

The new RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) offers improved handling at sea and can provide a full, high performance rescue capability whilst carrying up to six people. A substantial number of boats have already been sold following the recent completion of its MED (Marine Equipment Directive) and SOLAS certification by Bureau Veritas.

The RIBO 450 N may be powered by either a 25 hp or 40 hp outboard engine and is capable of operation in extreme sea conditions. With a maximum overall weight of 901 kg when fully equipped with passengers and a 40 hp engine, the RIBO 450 N can be launched from a single point hoisting sling anchored to four lifting points on the boat. The ease of deployment enables the new RIB to be in the water and en route to rescue extremely quickly.

Manufactured from orange neoprene/hypalon tube fabric and with an orange composite GRP hull, the RIBO 450 N is fitted with two 25 litre (6.6 US gallon) tanks that will give it an endurance of some 4 hours with a 40 hp engine that enables it to reach rescue victims quickly and easily. The hull cross-section features a medium-deep V at the bow to improve handling and crew comfort.  As with all Zodiac products, the RIBO 450 N is designed for durability and low service costs .

The boat is delivered ready for immediate deployment and is fully equipped with items including a search light, paddles and all emergency accessories, plus rapid inflation ‘righting bag’ to assist in turning the boat in the event of capsize.

Zodiac Solas is part of the Zodiac Marine & Pool Group. It is a respected world leader in the design and manufacture of inflatable boats and survival equipment. It operates in three sectors that provide a comprehensive service to their specialised markets. The Zodiac SOLAS Sector supplies life rafts for merchant ships, ferries, and cruise ships and complete rescue systems combining escape slides and rafts and rescue boats. The Zodiac MILPRO (Military and Professional) Sector supplies inflatable and semi-rigid craft for professional users such as fire teams and offshore and military users such as armed forces and special forces. For more information visit: www.zodiacsolas.com

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Commercial enquiries contact:
Franck PALOMBA
Operations director
ZODIAC SOLAS
Route de Chatenet
Chevanceaux 17210
France
Tel:   00 33 5 46 04 60 70  Fax:  00 33 5 46 04 65 92
Email : franck.palomba@zmp-zodiac.com,  www.zodiacsolas.com