Responder Boats

Responder Boats builds a selection of vessels to support: rescue efforts, on water emergencies, law enforcement, military actions, sporting venues, fire response, and general aquatic recreation.

March 23, 2012

Responder Boats announces limited production has begun on their new Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB). “8 years of design, tooling, and refining, and 48 months of rigorous offshore and inland testing has readied us to begin limited production of our new concept ‘Catamaran’ RIB vessel”, says designer and company president, Jay Greenbaum.

The 17' (5-meter) RIB is based upon an innovative modified catamaran hull concept. This unique patented “Variable Ballast Hull Technology” design incorporates a flow-thru keel concept providing a continuous “variable ballast” weight control system constantly keeping the vessel in trim and providing unmatched stability at all speeds. The catamaran hulls are open fore and aft allowing water to freely flow completely thru the hulls. At rest the hulls are completely filled with water adding substantial ballast weight below the waterline thus providing outstanding stability and roll control. During slow speed operation water continuously flows thru the “VBHT” cat hulls maximizing stability and tracking. The vessel planes from a dead stop in 2 boat lengths as the water evacuates from the “Variable Ballast” catamaran hulls. The open orifice bows of the “VBHT” hulls allow water to enter as the vessel encounters differing sea conditions thus enabling the variable water ballast to continually adjust the attitude of the vessel allowing for a very smooth and stable ride in varying sea states.

The inflatable collar is as innovative as the hull concept. Our 5-chambered collar is constructed of reinforced; heavy-duty polyurethane coated industrial fabric (20" tube diameter) and entirely welded to assure trouble free service, maximum durability, and extended product life. The collar employs a removable urethane bladder system making repairs quick and easy and “down time” a thing of the past. Each internal bladder (sort of like a bicycle tube inside the tire) can be removed and replaced in the collar in a matter of minutes – while the vessel is in the water! A spare bladder can facilitate almost instantaneous repairs making down time a thing of the past. Each bladder is fitted with two valves, a filler valve and an over-pressure valve. Our boats will NEVER blow a seam and the heavy-duty fabric used handles UV exposure, punctures, and abrasion far better than materials used on competitor’s brands.

Usable deck space is maximized. Standard configuration allows for 46 sq. feet of open deck space and 6 cubic feet of storage inside the command console. An optional removable bow locker provides additional storage. Fuel tank is located below deck and two deck hatches provide access to additional storage in the bilge.

The vessel exhibits outstanding performance and handling characteristics. Equipped with a 90 HP Evinrude E-Tec outboard the boat is powerful, fast, stable, nimble, reliable, rugged, smooth riding, and very economical to operate.

We employ “closed molded” technologies and utilize the highest grade of resins and structural reinforcements in the construction of our composite components. “Closed molding” produces a composite that is up to 42% lighter and substantially stronger than traditional open molding fiberglass construction. Furthermore the process is eco friendly and enables a cleaner and healthier work environment for our employees.

Contact: Responder Boats – 828-390-5981, jay@responderboats.com - www.responderboats.com