The first description sounds normal for UK diving. Most clubs own their own Rib(s) and as a result most diving (and most of mine) is off one.
Going out in force 5-6 winds and trying to go through seas that are up to 6ft and coming at you from all directions isnt that uncommon.
The journeys are long, wet, bumpy and spend most of the time out of the water. Any equipment not nailed down is quickly lost overboard.
One particular trip i remember from earlier this year was 6 of us on the rib in the typical irish sea conditions and the bloke opposite me removing his ankle weights stating "at least i KNOW i can swim without them on!". This happened after the boat had rolled near 45 degrees and i nearly landed on him (was sat opposite side).
Despite seeming scarey and dangerous you have to remember what Ribs are designed for - they can withstand a huge amount of punishment and its very hard to turn one over (assuming the driver is sensible). You soon get used to it.
Id much prefer a Rib in a rough sea to a hardboar which tends to wallow more and take longer to get there.
Our Rib although small and underpowered can maintain 25kts with 6 divers, kit and 12 cylinders for an all-day trip. Most hardboards do between 10 and 12kts maximum meaning it takes longer to get to or some sites are deemed too far away.
The only downside of Ribs in winter is the cold air temperature added to the cold wind chill meaning even dry suited drivers get chilly.
Going out in force 5-6 winds and trying to go through seas that are up to 6ft and coming at you from all directions isnt that uncommon.
The journeys are long, wet, bumpy and spend most of the time out of the water. Any equipment not nailed down is quickly lost overboard.
One particular trip i remember from earlier this year was 6 of us on the rib in the typical irish sea conditions and the bloke opposite me removing his ankle weights stating "at least i KNOW i can swim without them on!". This happened after the boat had rolled near 45 degrees and i nearly landed on him (was sat opposite side).
Despite seeming scarey and dangerous you have to remember what Ribs are designed for - they can withstand a huge amount of punishment and its very hard to turn one over (assuming the driver is sensible). You soon get used to it.
Id much prefer a Rib in a rough sea to a hardboar which tends to wallow more and take longer to get there.
Our Rib although small and underpowered can maintain 25kts with 6 divers, kit and 12 cylinders for an all-day trip. Most hardboards do between 10 and 12kts maximum meaning it takes longer to get to or some sites are deemed too far away.
The only downside of Ribs in winter is the cold air temperature added to the cold wind chill meaning even dry suited drivers get chilly.