Tide lines: RIB record bid

A 12m rigid inflatable boat to be launched at Ribex 2001, being held in Southampton, England, from May 18 to 20, will try for a record after the show. Built by Panthercraft, the boat is based on a displacement catamaran. It is powered by twin Yanmar diesels coupled to Hamilton waterjets, which show organisers say will give it a range of just under 5000km. It will attempt a non-stop voyage around Britain, trying to set a record for boats under 15.25m. Also at the show, Zodiac will launch a new impenetrable tube for RIBs, which has two layers of fabric with a foam skin between. The new tube is designed for boats operating in tough conditions .

Big staff bonus

One of the world's biggest marine companies, US-based Genmar Holdings, has paid out almost $US3 million ($6.8 million) to 5000 employees of its boatbuilding divisions. Announcing the payout, company chairman Irwin L. Jacobs said it was recognition of the staff contribution to the company's success.

Diesel relaunch

Volkswagen will relaunch its range of marine diesels on June 1. The range was withdrawn after being introduced at last year's Dusseldorf Boat Show. The eight engines range from 45hp to 150hp, six for displacement boats and two for planing hulls.

Water watch

* The Eagle Technology Bays Swim from Ferguson Wharf to Tamaki Yacht Club is a highlight of a busy weekend on the water. Activity today includes: Sail Auckland, Kohimarama/Bucklands Beach (KYC, BBYC); Maraetai round-Waiheke race (MSC); Bucklands Beach cruising beach party (BBYC); Weiti 70-mile gulf race (WBC); Devonport cruising race (DYC); Richmond family cruising race (RYC); Catamaran Regatta, Howick (HSC).

* Today and tomorrow: Manukau match racing (MYMBC); AMI regatta, French Bay (FBBC).

* Tomorrow: Steelers summer series (PCC); Eagle Technology 3.2km bays swim. Assemble Ferguson Wharf from 8.45 am, start 9.45 am, tide 10.45 am.

* Organisations planning events on either the Waitemata or the Manukau Harbours should list them with Enviroline by phoning 0800 80 60 40.fuend