4 April 2025

Pantaenius UK is always proud to champion British boat building excellence, safety and innovation, and therefore we are delighted to support Island RIBs as they unveil their brand-new 6.8m model.

Based in Cowes, Island RIBs has built a strong reputation for producing high-quality, seaworthy boats that meet the highest standards of compliance and regulation. Following the success of their 10m RIB, launched just over a year ago, the company is expanding its range with the introduction of this exciting new addition.

The Island 6.8m will be officially unveiled at Cowes Yacht Haven on 16th April at 12:00. Attendees will have the chance to see the vessel both on and off the water and meet the expert team behind the evolution of its design and construction.

Designed from the ground up, the Island 6.8m is a completely new model, developed using bespoke designs and tooling, all crafted in-house at Island RIBs’ state-of-the-art factory in Cowes. This hands-on approach ensures exacting quality control at every stage of production, delivering a boat that is as robust as it is refined.

Slightly narrower than the company’s well-known 7.5m model, the 6.8m boasts a sleek bow, lightweight construction and a sea-kind hull designed to deliver outstanding performance from relatively low horsepower. The practical layout includes a spacious bow locker, a walkaround console with a full-height windscreen, and a fully moulded splashwell that enhances dry storage and structural rigidity.

Even before its official launch, the new model has generated significant interest, and we are especially thrilled that Cowes Sailability Club has chosen the Island 6.8m as its new safety boat. The vessel will play a key role in helping the charity provide sailing opportunities for people with disabilities.

Jo Burke of Island RIBs shared her enthusiasm: “We are absolutely delighted that Cowes Sailability Club has selected the Island 6.8m as its new RIB. Supporting the fantastic work of this local charity is an honour, and we look forward to assisting with the servicing and maintenance of the boat for years to come.”

Pantaenius UK is proud to support Cowes Sailability Club by gifting the charity its first year of insurance coverage for the new RIB. We firmly believe in making the water accessible to everyone, and we’re delighted to contribute to Cowes Sailability Club’s incredible work in opening up sailing opportunities for all.

As proud sponsors of the launch event itself, the Pantaenius UK team will also be on-site with a branded vehicle towing Cowes Sailability Club’s new boat ahead of its handover—a moment we’re excited to be part of. Our collaboration with Island RIBs continues beyond this event, as we work closely with them on a soon-to-be revealed Pantaenius boat, further strengthening our commitment to their outstanding craftsmanship and innovation in the marine industry.

Compact, practical, and built to perform, the Island 6.8m is the ideal choice for those seeking a reliable, economical, and easily maintained RIB with outstanding seaworthiness. Island RIBs’ reputation for exceptional craftsmanship has made them a trusted name not only in the leisure sector but also among commercial and government organisations, with clients including Williams Shipping, The National Crime Agency, the British Antarctic Survey and Falklands Conservation.