Just found another article about Picton Ribs sell out : “Bridgend-based Picton Boats Ltd has been sold in a £2.95m deal to Dorset-based entrepreneurs, Stephen Arkell and Malcolm Patrick.”

>>  See more info and a photo

Word on the street is that Dave Picton of Cobra Ribs (rib manufactures) Has sold the business to new owners. I just found this information on The rib.net website (RIB.net is an essential resource for users of rigid inflatable boats)

“Dave Picton has sold his interests in Cobra RIBs and the company is now under new managementThe new owners Steve Arkell and Malcolm Patrick are both existing Cobra owners, and will seek to take the company to greater heights by increasing production and the Cobra model range.

The Cobra RIB, available in 5.5m – 12m models, has been popularised by Dave Picton with the introduction of the thoughtfully designed “Nautique” layout. However, it is the stability and rough water handling that has continued to make a Cobra RIB a popular choice for families, water sports enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

Dave will remain as consultant to Cobra and will retain the Maxum, Starcraft and Olympic distribution under the Picton banner. It is also his intention to expand the retail side of the business at the new 760 sq meter unit on Brynmenyn Industrial Estate.”

JBT Marine say: Picton Cobra are well known for being one of the first rib manufactures in the uk to successfully provide a great leisure layout and a good sea boat in one package. So often a great leisure layout can be found but at the expense of sea keeping capabilities.

Picton Cobra Ribs hold resale values very well if kept in good condition and are very popular. Watch out for tatty upholstery in older models.

Just the other day, I was returning from Fairweather Marine (outboard motor engineers / dealers) through Portsmouth Harbour to the Camber dock in one of our 7.8 m Ballistic RIBS. It was freezing cold and dark , so I was dressed up warmly in my black Musto oilskins.

It was not long before I realised that I was being pursued by the Marine Police unit (Blue flashing lights, search light and loud hailer in hand!)!

I guess they don’t get many people out in high speed Ribs in Portsmouth harbour at this time of year at night.

It turned out that they were stopping me to check I wasn’t a terrorist! With all of the Naval facilities in Portsmouth I guess marine terrorism is a bit of a worry at the moment. After some friendly questioning they let me carry on my voyage home.

I didn’t realise, but these days if a Policeman stops you and asks you what you are doing, they have to give you a written ticket to record the event officially, even in boat!

So if your out late at night in your boat watch out! Somone might be watching you!!!