Rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) are small to mid-size powerboats with a solid hull — typically fibreglass or aluminium — and inflatable rubber or hypalon tubes running around the perimeter of the hull above the waterline. The tubes provide buoyancy, impact absorption at the waterline, and a degree of inherent unsinkability; the rigid hull delivers the structural stiffness and performance of a conventional planing powerboat.
The combination makes RIBs exceptionally practical for use cases requiring durability and high performance in rough conditions: they are the standard tender type for superyachts, the primary vessel for offshore rescue services and coast guard operations in many countries, and are widely used by naval and military forces. The tubes absorb impact against quaysides, mothership hulls, and rough water without the structural consequences that would affect a hard-sided vessel. RIBs are heavier per metre than inflatables alone, but significantly more able offshore and at speed.
The size range spans approximately 3 to 20 metres. Outboard engines are standard on most sizes; twin or triple high-output outboards are used on performance and patrol variants. Inboard diesels with waterjet drives are used on larger military and rescue RIBs where propeller exposure is a safety or operational concern. Tubes are typically divided into multiple independent chambers so that a single puncture does not render the boat inoperable. Construction uses vacuum-infused GRP or welded aluminium for the hull, with Hypalon or PVC fabric for the inflatable collar.
