The two Island 7.5m RIBs commissioned by the British Antarctic Survey have started their work in Antarctica. The RIBs are supporting operations at the Rothera research station. So far their work has involved diving, water sampling and equipment/personnel transport out outlying islands. We have received some excellent feedback from the British Antarctic Survey boat operators, who tell us that the RIBs are proving to be ‘great assets’ and that the new Island RIBs have considerably increased the range of Rothera diving operations.