S.V. Modiolus

S.V. Modiolus, just launched, is probably one of the most advanced RIBs for it's size built to date. The RIB is based on the Stormforce 7.4 hull, and has been built for the Environment and Heritage Service (Northern Ireland) (www.ehsni.gov.uk) for diving and sea bed surveying purposes.

Many details of the RIB have been custom made and the RIB. Forward is a new stand alone bow locker, and a removable bottle rack has been fitted just aft, which also doubles as a safe handle hold when underway.

The RIB features the first from our new "Patrol" console design.. S.V. Modiolus has been fitted with the standing variant, and this offers a lot of space both internally and externally for mounting of equipment. Twin bolster style seat backs have been added to provide support and protection for the crew. These have been attached to a specially designed engine bay lid box. The box serves two further purposes: storage for an underwater camera and the engine breathing.

One of the most notable features of S.V. Modiolus is the substantial stainless steel A-Frame. The frame was designed from scratch to meet the increasing needs of commercial clients, who are wanting to place more and more equipment on the frames. For S.V. Modiolus this has included a self-righting system, radar reflector, navigation lights, flare box holders, lifering holders, Radar, radio antenna, and even an auxiliary outboard.

Powered by the latest generation Yamaha ME422 (245 hp) sterndrive, the RIB's high specification includes:

• Marinised PC system, with waterproof flatscreen monitor, keyboard and tracker ball, and USB ports on console
• Raymarine C80 multi-purpose Plotter
• Raymarine DS500X Digital Fish Finder
• ICOM VHF-DSC Radio
• Aquacom Diver underwater communications system
• Stainless Steel Foldup dive ladder
• Liferaft

The RIB has been built and surveyed to the MCA Small Craft Harmonised Code.

Posted: 12th December 2006