Innovative Design

Proven Design and Innovative Features

Carson Rib designs are based on nearly four decades of practical experience and cutting-edge CAD facilities, incorporating many unique and proven features. Among these is the iconic Carson deep V gull wing hull design with stabilizing and wave-deflecting chines that run the full length from stem to stern. These broad spray chines provide additional lift for faster plane acceleration, enhance overall performance, improve fuel economy, and aid stability at rest or at speed. They also mitigate the danger of chine walking often associated with other fast planing hulls.

Stability and Durability in Design

Carsons were the first ribs to have the inflatable tubes lifted well clear of the waterline. Unlike many other brands, all Carson hulls are inherently stable and buoyant. Raising the tubes reduces drag, mitigates potential damage from debris and weed fouling, and increases freeboard even when fully loaded. Tubes are offered with optional foam filling for better reliability and can be made of hypalon or welded polyurethane (PU), another Carson first since the 1980s. Mechanically attached tubes on all models provide maximum reliability, lower maintenance, and easier repair or replacement when needed, resulting in lower ownership costs.

Advanced Bow Design for Improved Performance

The latest designs have semi-wave piercing bows and longer waterlines for more speed with a given horsepower and a smoother, shock-mitigating ride. The bow is designed to slice through chop and moderate waves, yet still has the reserve buoyancy to lift in extreme conditions, acting more like a conventional bow. First developed in the early 1980s, this latest range substantially enhances ride comfort, performance, and safety.

Enhanced Hull Features for Optimal Handling

Some models feature multiple hull steps that improve overall performance and are uniquely configured to avoid the twitchy handling of some other stepped hull designs. Another Carson innovation, these steps provide a smooth, straight keel line to enhance handling, particularly in fast sharp turns. They also reduce water flow interference at the keel, providing extra directional grip and enabling the use of a waterjet, which is not typically possible with stepped hulls. Due to their unique shape, they also improve reverse handling and tight maneuvering, offering a smoother, more stable ride in all conditions with improved fuel economy and easier launching from trailers and beaching operations.

Customizable Deck and Console Options

All models are available with various deck layout options and roomy consoles that enable customization for various operations. On larger models, optional big consoles offer generous space for instruments and good crew and cockpit protection. These can be positioned offset for easier movement to the foredeck or centrally for a traditional layout. Within the larger consoles, there is room for sleeping berths, toilets, and basic cooking facilities. Other consoles and various seating arrangements are also offered. Customized wheelhouses and cabins are available for all models.

Long-Range Capabilities for Remote Operations

Optional long-range fuel tanks below decks give a cruising range of over 1,000 miles, potentially doubling for some of the new largest models, which is beneficial when operating in remote regions where fuel resupply is less convenient. With added bimini tops, side screens, cockpit covers, or wheelhouses, these larger Carsons can stay on operations for extended periods, making them a cost-effective solution for border control, security, and other operations.

Versatile Power and Drive Options

Power for all models may be provided by outboards, inboards, diesel, or petrol engines, in singles, twins, and for larger designs, triple and quadruple engines are an option. Various drives, including waterjet, are possible. Depending on power, speeds of 65+ knots are achievable, but these designs are equally suitable for lower-speed operations.

Endurance and Racing Success

A few Carsons have experienced success in endurance events and racing. A standard Carson 750 took 1st place overall in the first-ever RIB race held in Britain, the Round Scotland RIB Race in 1990, crewed by an MOD Marine Police Team averaging over 50 knots during the week-long event, a record held for several years. Other Carsons have successfully circumnavigated Ireland with only two crew, held the Cross Channel Dover to Boulogne Record, and achieved many other outstanding and long-range endurance feats. Others have been built for more leisurely use, including cabin variations for private cruising and expeditions. One 7.5m stepped hull model with a cabin, named Quickstep, has made voyages crossing the North Sea from the Orkneys to Norway, up beyond the Arctic Circle, and even wintered there with the crew living onboard. This boat still provides good service more than twenty years after being built.