Definition
A retube is the replacement of a RIB's inflatable collar with a new set of tubes fitted to the existing rigid hull. Rather than scrapping a boat whose hull and machinery remain sound, the worn or damaged tube set is removed and a new one is made to the hull's pattern, restoring the craft to near-new condition for a fraction of the cost of a full replacement.
Background and use
The inflatable collar is the part of a RIB that wears out first. Sun, salt, abrasion against docks and the mothership, and ordinary handling degrade the fabric and the seams over years of service. A RIB's tubes typically give somewhere between 5 and 10 years of useful life depending on material, climate, and care, while the hull and engine often have far more left in them. The retube exists to close that gap.
The job involves stripping the old tubes from the hull, cleaning and preparing the bonding surfaces, and fitting a new collar made either to the original pattern or to a measured template taken from the hull. Material choice drives both cost and longevity. Hypalon, more precisely CSM-coated fabric, resists UV, chemicals, and heat better than PVC and is the usual choice for boats that live in strong sun, with a well-maintained collar realistically lasting in the region of 15 to 25 years. PVC is cheaper but ages faster under sun and heat. Costs are commonly quoted per running metre of boat length, so a six-metre RIB sits roughly in the four-figure range depending on material, tube diameter, chamber count, and finish.
For superyacht operators a retube is an attractive way to extend the life of a proven chase boat or tender. A craft whose handling and stowage already suit the yacht is worth more than its replacement value once you account for the disruption of finding and integrating a new boat. The decision usually turns on hull condition: if the hull, deck, and machinery are sound, a retube is the economical path; if the hull is also tired, replacement makes more sense.
Related considerations
- Choose Hypalon-type fabric over PVC for boats that live in strong sun and heavy use; the longer life usually justifies the cost.
- Pricing is typically per running metre, so confirm what is included: chambers, valves, rubbing strakes, and graphics.
- Assess hull and machinery condition first; a retube only makes sense when the rest of the boat has life left.
- A retube is a chance to revise tube diameter or chamber layout, but changes can affect handling and stability.
- Quality of the bond between tube and hull is critical; specify a yard with a track record on your hull type.