RIB Retubing with New Hypalon Tubes

Ribcollar provides RIB retubing services for ageing, damaged or worn rigid inflatable boats. We manufacture and fit new Hypalon tubes, collars and sponsons for leisure, commercial, professional, military and rescue RIBs, with practical support from first review through to final fitting.

Why owners choose Ribcollar for retubing

A full retube is often the right answer when the original tubes are worn out, damaged beyond sensible repair or no longer reliable in service. Ribcollar builds practical replacement solutions around the boat, the duty and the finish required. We support private owners, commercial operators and professional users who need a straightforward route to new tubes / collars.

What a RIB retube usually involves

The process usually starts with a review of the boat, its current tube condition and the fittings that need to be replaced. The existing tube is then removed and the GRP flange inspected at the same time to ensure it is sound. From there, the job is specified around material, layout, finish and practical use. New Hypalon tubes / collars are then manufactured and fitted, followed by pressure testing, finishing work and final handover.

How we manufacture our Hypalon tube

Replacement tubes are manufactured from Orca Hypalon, the preferred industry standard for strength, durability and long-term performance. We hold an extensive database of tube patterns for many existing boats. If we do not already have your model on file, we scan it into our system to create an accurate pattern for manufacture. Tubes are then specified to suit the hull and the way the boat is used, with options such as rubstrakes, wear patches, handles, lifelines, valves and other fitting details. This gives you a replacement tube package built for your boat and your application, rather than a generic solution.

For a guide to how we make our tubes, visit Here

Accessories and Custom Add-Ons

Enhance your RIB with high-quality accessories from Ribcollar Inflatables. We supply and fit a wide range of aftermarket solutions, including:

Bow fairleads, rubbing strakes, and additional cladding.
Custom-manufactured Hypalon boat names and decals.
Grab handles, deck-bonded foot straps, and MOD-style tube pannier bags.

Our bespoke accessories are designed to improve functionality and style, tailored to your specific needs.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if my RIB needs a full retube?
A full retube is usually the right option when the original tubes are old, leaking, badly worn, suffering from seam failure, or damaged beyond sensible repair. It is also the right move when the tubes are no longer dependable in service. If the hull remains sound, a retube is often a practical and cost-effective way to extend the life of the boat.

Do you build replacement tubes in Hypalon?
Yes. We manufacture replacement tubes in Orca Hypalon and specify the fabric and fittings to suit the boat and its intended use.

Can the tubes be repaired instead?
Sometimes, yes. Hypalon is often repairable where the material is still structurally sound. Once the coating has worn away and the fabric weave is exposed, repair is often no longer the best long-term solution. PVC and PU can be harder to repair reliably, especially as they age, so replacement is often the better route.

Do you work on commercial and rescue RIBs?
Yes. We support leisure, commercial, professional, military and rescue RIBs.

Request a RIB Retubing Quote

Send clear photos, the boat make and model, overall length and a short note on the work required. Ribcollar will review the job and advise on retubing, replacement tube or repair options.