7.3metre River Waterjet D-RHIB Design #090

7.3metre River Waterjet D-RHIB Design #090

Broadly-speaking the requirement for this vessel was to provide DFO Canada with a Patrol and SAR capability for inshore waters and inland rivers in British Columbia.

More specific functional constraints were summarized as follows:

1. Overall length of approximately 7.2 metres
2. Trailerable
3. Shallow draft with ability to be beached
4. Open working deck space for 3 crew with an area for a basket litter/stretcher
5. Helm Console with T-Top protection and built-in windscreen
6. Inflatable collar ie. RIB configuration
7. Planing boat performance with range of several hundred kilometers

The collaboration between de Villiers Design and Kanter Marine has more than matched these specified requirements. The end result is a really functional, robust and zippy vessel which manoeuvres well in the confines of the demanding Fraser River operational area. The alloy hull is superbly strong and suitable for the heavy knocks which are part of the life of a workboat.

The hull topsides are enveloped with an inflatable Hypalon D-Collar complete with abrasive covering. The D-collar shape was chosen to keep the working deck space as large as possible. This collar provides unmatched reserve buoyancy and will help the boat cope with the standing waves on the river. If solid water does come aboard then it drains out of the boat very quickly through large capacity scuppers aft at the transom. In accordance with the tender documents this 7.3m D-RIB exceeds the relevant ISO Stability and Buoyancy requirements and has been drop tested from over 2 metres.

The forward part of the vessel is designated as the working deck. Amidships is where the helm console with T-top is placed. Seating for two is provided. Aft we have a full width engine bay with cover at bulwark level. Strong railings surround this area for protection of the crew. Under the lid lurks an inboard Kodiak Vortec V8 coupled to a Hamilton 241 Waterjet. Planing is effortless with a top speed around 40 knots. A boarding platform stretches right across the boat aft of the transom above the waterjet.

In summary what we have here is an extremely capable vessel, very robust and well-built and sure to perform her duties well for many years to come.