Will the RIB from Brig fly like an Eagle or sink like a stone? Emryhs Burell went to find out.

Ukraine might sound like an unlikely country to have a major manufacturer of RIBs, but as it turns out, and ashamedly much to the ignorance of us chaps here at SB&RIB, the same country boasts a 600-mile coastline along the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov, making Ukraine quite the seafaring nation. And it is that this proud state has been home to the respected Brig brand of RIBs for over 20 years. Seen all over the world, the Brig brand is well known here in the UK thanks to the UK importer, The Wolf Rock Boat Company.

Layout

Setting my eyes upon the Eagle 645, the first impressions were promising. From the sensibly-sized bow-pad to the neat moulded steps in the stern of the tubes, everything looked like it had been designed at the same time, just for this boat. The curve of the console matches the rake of the goalpost mast, which in turn leads into the tumblehome of the transom. There is a good consistency to the style of the boat, though it is clear the boat divides into three areas: the ‘tanning salon’ in the bow, the cosy chatroom aft and the flight-deck amidships.

A detailed inspection confirmed the first impressions. The bow pad is big enough for you to safely step on and off the boat, with a roller and clam-cleat for mooring lines. Behind this you have a cushioned lounging area, with deep lockers underneath, the front one for the anchor draining to the sea, while the rear one takes bags, coats and swimming gear. A twin-jump seat on the front of the console lifts to reveal more locker room, with its back cushion covering a large hatch that gives access to the inside of the console, for more storage and access to the back of the instrument panels.

Practical touches include davit lifting points in the deck fore and aft, often an extra on other makes, while cup holders keep your drinks in place… depending on how you drive of course.

The console serves as a lesson in good design with the engine dials right in front of your eyes and space for electronics. Another deep locker with a lid on it is suited for cameras, phones, binoculars, and all the other expensive items we take with us these days.

The twin seat cushions hinge up, allowing you to sit or stand underway, whilst well-positioned stainless grab handles on the console, round the windscreen, and on the tubes make passengers feel safe and secure. Across the stern of the boat is a three-person bench seat, whose occupants have an airline-style flip up table in front of them set into the back of the helm seat. Underneath them is another deep locker for fenders and ropes, as well as the battery.

Photos: Joe McCarthy

For the full test of the Bring Eagle 645, buy the November issue of Sports Boat and RIB, available from 3rd November. To buy the current issue, click here.