The Shearwater RIB has been developed by the team at Bembridge Outboards on the Isle of Wight.

Jim Robinson, Director

"We've sold many RIBS from our business in Bembridge, as well as looking after and servicing approximately 220 RIBS at our yard. We pick up customer comments and feedback about their boats, and spurred on by the demands of my own young but growing family we decided to developed the Shearwater.

We spent about two years developing the concept, striving to add a little comfort and protection without loosing the advantage of owning a true RIB. Most of our customers want a RIB with good seakeeping ability, appropriate image and ease of use. Many people often have limited time off to use their boat, and are often under increasing pressure to make the boat more of a family commitment.

The Shearwater is designed to bridge the gap between the fun and performance of a RIB and a comfortable "day boat". The cuddy is great for families like mine - I have three young children. The first ten minutes out is novelty value, then they get cold or want to sleep they can go below and we can still complete our trip. The "wrap around" sides and windscreen give good protection from wind chill, and if you are caught in a shower you can put the canopy up and head home at a reasonable speed.

Most 750/860's are very capable and it's normally the windchill and spray that dictates the length of most trips, rather than the sea state. With the Shearwater you will be able to stretch the season and with the more efficient motors now available, undertake longer trips in improved comfort.

We didn't want to take up too much space with the cuddy cabin - just enough for a toilet, and an overnight stop for two. The centre cushions are removable exposing the foot well so you can sit, change clothes etc.

The well has open ends, so skis and rods etc can be pushed forward for storage. This also gives the option of a toilet.

There is a jump seat in front of the cuddy which the kids love and a large raised anchor locker with two compartments and sun cushion, the helm seat is a twin bolster, and there is a four person bench aft."