If you've spent your life landlocked -- and let's face it, how many boats do you see motoring through Andover? -- chances are you've missed out on one of the great arednalin rushes of our time, writes Steve Baxter.

Most of us have gazed at the Solent from a ferry, seeing it as a fairly mild, featureless expanse of H2O. But there's a way to experience this stretch of water that will change your mind forever.

Thruxton Motorsport Centre is now offering the chance to take on the waves in a racing rib -- a rigid inflatable boat built like a racing car on water. The days start off from the Ocean Quay Marina, virtually opposite St Mary's Stadium in Southampton, and offer a unique experience for the experienced sailor or even the petrolhead who hasn't quite got his or her sealegs yet.

Made for speed, not comfort, the racing rib can achieve speeds of up to 70mph through the water -- although you'll find that a lot of time is spent out of the wet stuff, as the boat leaps and rides over even the most harmless-looking wake and takes to the air.

The day begins with a briefing from your instructor, who will kit you out in a waterproof oversuit, helmet and life jacket, to get you in the racing mood. He will explain to you the characteristics of the boat and all safety procedures, and then it's time to get onto the water.

There's an agonising few minutes as the boat idles into the de-restricted area, where the 200 horses of the engine can really let rip.

The rib behaves unlike any craft I've ever been on, and in many ways it's the purest racing machine I've ever seen.

The simplicity is the key, as the rib consists of a racing hull, an inflatable surround and a phenomenally powerful engine. And that's all it needs to do its job, as it throws you through the air at high speeds.

You're not held in with any seatbelts, but despite the speed it's not a frightening experience. The boat rips through the water and the air, and while the landings are hard they're never painful!

And now the best news of all -- you get to go behind the wheel yourself, to really feel the power of the racing rib.

In a lot of ways it's easier than driving a racing car, as there's no track as such to speak of, and within a couple of minutes you'll feel confident enough to open up the throttle and see what she's made of!

If traffic jams are getting you down, or if you're looking for a totally new thrilling experience to try out, the racing rib makes the perfect day out -- and perfect gift for you or the petrolhead in your life, with Christmas just around the corner!

The racing rib experience costs £115, and for more information or to book a day on the water call Thruxton Motorsport Centre on 01264 882222, or email info@thruxtonracing.co.uk.