Valiant 5.7m RIB with Mariner 115HP Optimax Outboard Engine

I have been boating for a number of years with various cruisers over 40 ft, but my family and I wanted to try something more exciting and decided that a RIB was the way to go. I went to several RIB suppliers and brokers but I found Jason’s no nonsense approach refreshing, with no high handed pressure sell. I decided on a Ballistic RIB as the write-ups sounded impressive, after sea trialling both the 6.5m and the 7.8m versions I wasn’t disappointed! I settled on the 7.8m with a 250hp Evinrude as the ride felt better to me and would be more comfortable for the whole family. Jason even modified the bench seat to accommodate my daughter with special needs. Justin ran the Power Boat Level 2 course which he made great fun and very useful, navigating at 50 knots is a whole new experience! Beverley offers a great after-sales service and seems to keep the boys in line, which is no mean feat!

I can’t say enough about this RIB, I have been in some moderate/rough seas already and the old adage ‘you will give up before the RIB does’ really applies with this RIB, she just loves the rougher weather; I am amazed at the performance and handling, particularly of the Evinrude engine, it’s a monster but so easy to handle around the marina and such great fun in open water! I feel very safe taking out the whole family and if we get caught out in difficult seas, bar me being stupid, I feel confident she will get us home safely.

Rob Holder, Hemel Hempstead, December 2007