The rigid hulled inflatable boats (RHIB) pull up along-side the ship you are on and you climb down a rope ladder to board, or in this case, we just jumped out the back of the amphib. Things can go at more than 30 knots, and for inserting personnel into coastal areas or between ships fast. If you don't get one of the only couple seats, you have to sit on the side and hold on tight with ropes on the inflatable edges. I characterize it as a cross between bull-riding and shooting class 4 rapids. Around this area, they're mostly manned by Americans, Aussies or Brits. The Aussies are a little crazier than most. Waves hit you in the face in choppy seas.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
RHIBs
The rigid hulled inflatable boats (RHIB) pull up along-side the ship you are on and you climb down a rope ladder to board, or in this case, we just jumped out the back of the amphib. Things can go at more than 30 knots, and for inserting personnel into coastal areas or between ships fast. If you don't get one of the only couple seats, you have to sit on the side and hold on tight with ropes on the inflatable edges. I characterize it as a cross between bull-riding and shooting class 4 rapids. Around this area, they're mostly manned by Americans, Aussies or Brits. The Aussies are a little crazier than most. Waves hit you in the face in choppy seas.
In true "909" style, you should have pulled out a ski rope and a tube (along with a few cold beverages) to impress the locals.
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