Boat Equipment
The Boat
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RomseySAC purchased a new rigid-hulled inflatable boat and trailer in 2005. The RIB is a 5.8 Metre deep-V sports-boat and can hold a maximum of 7 divers and coxswain. The boat was purchased with a 100 litre in-board fuel tank that allows the RIB a maximum off-shore range of 15 miles
The Engine
The engine was purchased in 2008 and is one of the latest investments the committee has made into the club. Through the hardwork of the 2007 committee RomseySAC was awarded a lottery grant that went some way towards the purchase of a Suzuki engine, propeller and engine management gauges. RomseySAC thanks the Lottery Fund for assistance with this asset.
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The Electronics
A new set of electronics has been placed on the the boat in 2008. A large amount of research had been undertaken to obtain the best sounding device that was integral to a colour chartplotter. Therefore, RomseySAC owns a Lowrance 9200c with broadband sonar, heading sensor and weather station.
The Safety Equipment
When the boat leaves the shore, a full complement of safety equipment is installed. The boat carries:
- Oxygen equipment
- DSC VHF radio
- EPIRB
- Flares
- Tools and engine parts
- Bailer
- anchor
- spare fuel tank
- battery leads
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Safety of use is most important to the club. Boats and swimmers is a dangerous combination especially if there are multiple diving parties and multiple boats on a dive site. Therefore, all coxswains are qualified to the "BSAC Boat handling" certificate and need to be assess by the Diving Officer. Boat-Handlers are encouraged to take their "Diver Coxswain" Exam, and "Chartwork and Position fixing" courses.
Summary
This means that RomseySAC owns one of the best RIB diving platforms in the area. RomseySAC maintains and services all equipment annually so that the RIB is ready to go. The RIB and its on-board equipment are fully insured each year, with the additional benefit that the RIB's kept on a hard in a Dorset marina, with 24hr security and range of locking devices.
