The Cowes Week Radio commentary RIB is being sponsored by the Portsmouth-based marine electronics manufacturer, Raymarine. The RIB is a familiar sight to the hundreds of yachts that compete at the regatta, as well as those out on the water experiencing the atmosphere of Cowes Week.

Raymarine have supplied a new AIS500 transceiver to Cowes Radio this year, complimenting the existing suite of Raymarine safety and navigation products on board. Data from the AIS500 will enable the commentators to provide the racing yachts and listeners to Cowes Radio with regular updates on shipping movements in the crowded waters of the Solent.

Data such as direction, route, speed and even cargo of approaching ships will be displayed on the RIB’s C Series multifunction display. As an extra safety measure, the approaching vessel’s radio call sign is shown, facilitating quick and easy radio contact with the ship if required. Yachts and shore based stations with an AIS receiver will also be able to keep track of the infamous RIB via Class B transmissions.