Let’s talk about rigid inflatable boat maintenance – a topic not quite as exciting as planning your next offshore adventure, but just as important. Just like maintaining a car or home, looking after your boat after a day on the water ensures countless more memorable days on the water and of course is key to protecting your investment.
Many of our clients are surprised to learn just how straightforward rigid inflatable boat maintenance can be. Whether you’re new to RIB boat ownership or a seasoned captain, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about keeping your vessel in top condition, from basic cleaning to long-term care strategies.
How Long Do Rigid Inflatable Boats Last?
Quality rigid inflatable boats have impressive longevity, matching or even exceeding the lifespan of traditional hard boats. With proper maintenance and care, a premium RIB boat can provide reliable service for 15-20 years or more. Not to mention that their maintenance is often easier and less time-consuming than a hard boat! The key factor in their longevity is really down to the quality and make of your boat, and importantly – the level of maintenance given.
High-end rigid inflatable boats are built with superior, durable materials and construction techniques that ensure durability. When maintained properly, these boats retain their performance capabilities and aesthetic appeal for many years, making them a sound long-term investment for boating enthusiasts.
Boat Maintenance: Six Ways To Look After Your Rigid Inflatable Boat
Wash Your RIB Boat After Use
The most important step in caring for any boat is washing it down after use. This gets rid of any excess salt water that is on the boat which left, can be corrosive and gradually damage your boat over time. After every outing:
- Rinse the entire boat thoroughly with fresh water
- Flush the engine with fresh water for at least 15 minutes
- Clean and rinse your trailer to prevent rust build up
- Pay special attention to metal fittings and components
- Dry all surfaces to prevent water spots and mineral deposits
Keep Your Tubes Inflated
Proper tube inflation is crucial for your RIB boat’s performance and longevity. It’s best to keep your tubes inflated and up to pressure – RIBs are most effective when at their optimum pressure. Here at Grand Boats, all of our rigid inflatable boats are fitted with overpressure valves to stop tubes from over-inflating. A few things to consider when inflating a RIB boat:
- Use a quality foot pump or a standard electric pump with a pressure gauge
- Follow manufacturer recommendations for pressure levels
- Check pressure before each use
Many new RIB owners often ask us “Is it bad to leave inflatable boats inflated?” For RIBs, it’s actually recommended to keep tubes properly inflated when not in use – even when in storage. This prevents tube deformation and prevent leaves, dust or debris falling in between the hull and tubes.
Clean Your Inflatable Tubes
Most modern RIB boat tubes are designed for easy maintenance. Regular cleaning prevents staining and degradation:
- Use specialized water-based RIB tube cleaners (We recommend using August Race Liquid RIB Tube Cleaner followed by LR Sealer Ultra UV RIB Tube Protector)
- Clean with soft brushes or cloths
- Address stains promptly to prevent setting
- Rinse thoroughly after cleaning
Clean Your Boat’s Flooring & Upholstery
Regular cleaning of your RIB’s deck, cushions and upholstery maintains both appearance and functionality of your boat:
- Remove debris and salt deposits by cleaning regularly after use.
- Use marine-grade cleaners appropriate for your flooring type. We recommend Dek Magic to tend to your Grand SeaDek flooring.
- Clean upholstery with fabric-specific products
- Address spills immediately to prevent staining
- Allow all surfaces to dry completely after cleaning
Maintain Your RIB’s Engine
Regular engine maintenance is crucial for your rigid inflatable boat’s reliability:
- Flush your engine with fresh water after every use
- Follow factory maintenance schedules
- Read and understand your owner’s manual
- Schedule regular professional servicing
- Monitor engine performance for any changes
- Keep detailed maintenance records
Keep Your Boat Covered
We recommend owners cover their rigid inflatable boats when not in use. All of our Grand RIBs come with harbour and overall covers included, and so whether moored up or stored in your driveway, keeping your boat protected from different environmental factors is a great way to preserve your RIB boat’s longevity (and of course makes for a cleaner boat the next time you jump onboard!).
A common question we get is whether you can you leave inflatable boats in the sun and this really comes down to the materials of your tubes. PVC tubes, for instance, are much more easily damaged by the sun – you might see PVC inflatables with yellowed tubes because of this sun exposure. Hypalon tubes by comparison – such as those we use here at Grand – are UV resistant and are perfectly fine to be left out in the sunshine.
Love your RIB, and It’ll Love You Back
At the end of the day, your RIB is your ticket to those unforgettable days on the water and taking care of it just ensures you’ll be able to easily enjoy more of that time on the water. Luckily, keeping your rigid inflatable boat isn’t too difficult at all and just requires a little bit of care and attention.
By following these maintenance guidelines, you’ll ensure your RIB boat remains in premium condition for years to come.
Have more questions about RIB boat care? Want to explore the advantages of a rigid inflatable boat? The team at Grand Boats Australia is always here to help. Drop by our Gold Coast showroom or give us a call – we love nothing more than chatting about rigid inflatable boats with fellow enthusiasts.
