SAMM SAFETY BOAT
SAMM RIB
Last year SAMM recognised that there was a need for a rescue and work boat and after much debate decided to go ahead and purchase, in 2011, a RIB (rigid inflatable boat). After a search around various marinas and in the media, one of our Members (Terry Chapman), spotted a suitable Rib in Mazarrón and invited several Members to inspect the boat. Although there were some issues to sort out, the RIB was eventually purchased. The boat has been successful and has benefitted most of the Groups within SAMM including Shoestring Group, the Radio Control Yacht Group, Cat group, and the new Balaton Group (as a tender), but most importantly has been key to the success of the Racing Group by placing the course buoys and as the safety boat during the race. The RIB has also been involved in a number of rescues and in the retrieval of the odd dinghy rudder!
The Racing Group controls the finances for the RIB and has mainly paid for the running costs, repairs and upkeep of it. Bob Miles is the key helmsman and has already taught several Members to achieve their Crew competence.
The choice of RIB was made to allow the helms to operate the boat with just the need for a Spanish “Titulo” (the only qualification possible to take in English) and at present SAMM has 18 people trained to helm the boat with 3 waiting for training (in the UK).
The RIB is a 4.5 metre Valliant DR450 (dive and rescue) boat with a 40hp Mariner 4-stroke engine. It is only used for SAMM Group events and at present, there is NO pleasure outings allowed i.e. fishing, water-skiing etc.,
If a Member would like to receive training to help out at race days etc., please contact Bob Miles – bobmiles13@hotmail.com