Protector RIB’s New Orders to Offer WASSP-Wireless Solution

Protector, the Brunswick owned New Zealand manufacturer of high end Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIB), is to offer an option on new orders for turn-key delivery of a WASSP-wireless multi-beam sonar installed in their models 6.5mtr CC, 7.5mtr CC & 9mtr Cabin.

This option targets the Super Yacht industry specifically where WASSP-wireless is becoming a serious must-have for collision and grounding avoidance.

WASSP-wireless transmits real-time seafloor imagery in 3D from the RIB directly back to the Super Yacht’s bridge display.

“Offering this option to new customers provides a turn-key solution at point of manufacture and hence avoids the need for retro-fitting transducers and hardware to the RIB. It’s a perfect solution and collaborating with WASSP offers a really solid and unique value-add for the Protector series in the Super Yacht market which is a key sector for us,” says Dave Larsen – Rayglass CEO.

The WASSP-wireless model was originally developed for various Military customers.

“It seemed a natural extension to apply what we learnt from the military applications to the Super Yacht market where the benefits and vessel risks are similar. Whether it’s the Commander of a Navy Frigate or the Master of a 40m+ Super Yacht, both have a need to know in real-time and in an accurate seafloor animation what is looming ahead regarding seafloor topography,” says Gareth Hodson – Managing Director, ENL Group.

The only installation aspect remaining after that is the bridge end, which is simple and straightforward.