The best models of semi-rigid inflatable boats
Of course, when talking about semi-rigid inflatable boats, it's the Zodiac brand that first comes to mind for consumers, the market is actually filled with dozens and dozens of brands competing fiercely.
Far from having a monopoly on the sale of semi-rigid boats, Zodiac faces fierce competition from manufacturers around the world, with hundreds of rivals, such as: Bombard, BRIG, Highfield, Zar Formenti ... and many others.
Whether they are used as fishing boats, pleasure and water sports boats, or as tenders for boats and yachts, semi-rigid inflatable boats shine with their versatility and offer many advantages: ease of use, ease of maintenance, affordable prices, stability, buoyancy, etc.
In this article, Orca Retail, supplier of repair fabrics for semi-rigid boats, offers you an overview of some popular models on the market, and for all budgets, to know which semi-rigid to choose.
Whether it's high-end sporty boats over €100,000, mid-range boats for family outings, or entry-level models for affordable navigation, let's review the best semi-rigid boats!
Semi-Rigid Boats < 8 meters
RIBCO VENOM 44
The RIBCO Venom 44 is the largest model from the Greek manufacturer RIBCO. This sporty boat with its elegant look and natural teak flooring will appeal to many.
On the engine side, it is equipped with the latest 350CC 4-stroke Mercury Verado engines, priced at €29,000 per unit, and capable of reaching a speed of 48 knots. The recommended configuration is 3 engines of 350CC.
This model is equipped with 4 berths and 10 seats, 5 of which are protected by the T-Top.
Two sunbathing areas, a toilet area, toilets with sink, and a shower will provide all the necessary comfort.
Its sale price is currently around €360,000 excluding tax, once equipped with the Mercury Verado 350cc engines.
Characteristics :
- Total length: 13.15m
- Width: 3.52m
- Net weight: 5800 Kg
- Fabric: Hypalon neoprene CR/CSM ORCA 866 - 1670 dtex
- Maximum power: 1200 HP
- Fuel tank capacity: 3x350L (1050L)
- Water tank capacity: 170L
- Maximum number of passengers: 16
CAPELLI STRADIVARI 43
The Stradivari 43 is the latest from the manufacturer Capelli, who was inspired by the craftsmanship of the association of Cremona lutherie, the hometown of Umberto Capelli, founder of the shipyard, and also the hometown of the famous Antonio Stradivari, one of the most renowned luthiers in the world.
Sublime curves, elegant materials, subtle details, the design is unquestionably a great success.
Between them proudly stand two examples of Yamaha's most powerful outboard: the XTO with 425 horsepower. To not disturb the overall harmony, the two Japanese V8s are painted in khaki to match the boat's gel-coat.
The cockpit is central, well protected by the walkway, and accommodates a U-shaped bench where at least 8 passengers can sit. The electric table is embedded in the floor.
Inside, the Stradivari 43 offers all the expected comfort of a semi-rigid in this category, namely a cabin with a double bed at the front, storage, and a side bench. A mid-cabin also offers two additional beds, in the center of the boat. A large bathroom completes the interior layout with a sink and storage on one side and the toilet and shower on the other.
In the end, discovering such an ambitious semi-rigid is a true pleasure. Certainly, its price makes it suitable for privileged boaters, but isn't that the case for all high-end productions? Sophisticated design, elegant line, top-notch finish, navigation qualities in harmony... One can say that the Stradivari 43 plays its part without a false note!
Price: €608,000 excluding tax with 2 Yamaha 425 HP 4-stroke engines.
Specifications :
- Total length: 13.00m
- Width: 3.60m
- Net weight: 5500 Kg (without engines)
- Fabric: Hypalon neoprene CR/CSM ORCA 866 - 1670 dtex
- Maximum power: 900 HP (2 x 450HP)
- Fuel tank capacity: 700L
- Maximum number of passengers: 18
- Manufacturer: Capelli
ZAR 85 SL
Flagship of the "Sport Luxury" line from the Italian brand Zar Formenti, the ZAR 85 SL is a sleek family boat, allowing for outings at sea in a large group, or, due to its accommodating dimensions, sleeping 2 people.
Indeed, under the steering area is a cabin with a double berth. The steering position itself is functional and designed for sporty driving by 2 (pilot and co-pilot).
Highly functional, the ZAR 85SL comes standard with a table and kitchenette with stoves, sink, and refrigerator, as well as numerous lockers and storage spaces.
On the engine side, with its Suzuki DF 300 APX, the ZAR 85 SL allows you to reach a maximum speed of 40 knots. At 4500 revolutions per minute, its cruising speed is 26 knots with a consumption of 48L / Hour.
Its price is approximately 78,800 € excluding tax, to which must be added the price of the engine, at around 24,450 € excluding tax, totaling a little over 100,000 €.
The ZAR85 SL is available in two colors: White Gelcoat and Coloured Gelcoat.
Among the options offered for the ZAR 85SL, noteworthy are: the fishing rod holder (5 places), hard tops and sun awnings, a 2-compartment refrigerator (90L), an extension to create a bed in the cabin, and marine toilets.
Characteristics :
- Total length: 8.55m
- Width: 3.25m
- Net weight: 1900 Kg
- Fabric: Hypalon neoprene CR/CSM ORCA 866 - 1670 dtex
- Maximum power: kW 372 (500 HP)
- Fuel tank capacity: 400L
- Water tank capacity: 100L
- Maximum number of passengers: 12-14
Technohull Sea DNA 999
Perfect for water sports outings, enjoying a sunbath in the open sea, or reaching a nearby island, the Sea DNA 999 from the Greek brand Technohull doesn't joke around with comfort and performance.
In terms of equipment, the Sea DNA 999 has one of the best offerings in our selection. Use of solid teak for most elements (platform and deck), shower at the swim exit, WC and shower inside the console (with a 175-liter freshwater tank), which thanks to a zipped tent can serve as a changing cabin, LED courtesy lighting for night stops, electric cooler, FM radio and audio system with four speakers, large sun awning... the Sea DNA 999 offers the ultimate!
Movement on board is well thought out, with a rear side passage, wide side decks, and generous space between the console and the front sun deck. Sleeping two people is no problem.
Nervous, the 2 engines of the Technohull allow it to reach incredible speeds, even exceeding 70 knots! Thanks to its 490-liter tank, it offers a range of 245 miles, enough to make a round trip between the mainland and Corsica without any problem, and all much faster than in NGV!
To afford this little gem, budget around 150,000 € for the boat itself, and a little over 20,000 € per engine. Consequently, with its many options, the total bill can quickly be negotiated beyond 200,000 €.
Characteristics:
- Total length: 10.3m
- Width: 2.8m
- Net weight: 2000 Kg without engine, 2600 with.
- Fabric: Hypalon neoprene CR/CSM ORCA 866 - 1670 dtex
- Maximum power: 700 HP (515.2 kW)
- Gasoline tank capacity: 570L
- Water tank capacity: 100L
- Maximum number of passengers: 8
Zodiac Medline 9
How can we not mention at least one boat from this emblematic French brand, Zodiac? For this article, we decided to introduce you to the Medline 9, which has a capacity to accommodate people.
Among its equipment, it includes: an integrated kitchen with sink (with grill optional), a console integrating a habitable cabin with toilets, a shower, WCs, and rear bathing platforms giving access to the sea. The three-seater console bench can accommodate up to two adults + one child. At the front and rear of the boat, additional seats coupled with adjustable height tables create comfortable spaces to enjoy a nap in the sun. Zodiac also thought of the little details that always please with 6 USB charging ports, 8 integrated cup holders, ample storage, and LEDs for the night.
Optionally, you can integrate: front balcony, Garmin GPS, refrigerator, ski mast, bunk beds, and more.
The Medline 9 is highly customizable, with 4 different fabrics for the interior, 4 colors of floats, and 2 colors for its hull.
It is available without an engine for around 80,000 €, and 120,000 € with two 200 HP engines allowing a speed of 40 knots (more powerful engines can nevertheless be installed).
Characteristics:
- Total length: 8.90m
- Width: 3.06m
- Net weight: 1850 Kg
- Fabric: Hypalon neoprene CR/CSM ORCA 866 - 1670 dtex
- Maximum power: 450 HP or 2 x 350 HP
- Gasoline tank capacity: 400L
- Water tank capacity: 50L shower and 43L WC (wastewater)
- Maximum number of passengers: 8-14
Many other manufacturers offer boats with a length of 8 meters and more, such as: Nuova Jolly, Capelli, BRIG, BWA, Joker Boat, LOMAC, MV Marine, North Star, Ranieri, Sacs, Salpa, Selva ...
Semi-Rigid Boats between 6 & 8 meters
SALPA SOLEIL 26
Exceptional hull and onboard comfort for this new 8-meter model that concentrates all the innovations and know-how of the SALPA shipyard.
After the success of the SOLEIL range and particularly the 23 and 28, the SALPA shipyard decided to bring together the best of both with the SALPA Soleil 26.
It has the comfort of the 28 but also the agility of the 23. A perfect compromise for those looking for a comfortable boat while being easy to transport, and for budgets over 100,000 €.
Its high-performance hull guarantees remarkable stability and comfortable navigation even in rough seas. The Soleil 26 also performs well with a maximum speed of 46,5 knots and good sea handling. Suitable for leisure, fishing, water sports, and family outings, this versatile boat will allow you to enjoy unforgettable moments on the water.
Specifications :
- Overall length: 8.00m
- Width: 3.00m
- Net weight: 1500Kg (without engine)
- Maximum power: 300 HP
- Fuel tank capacity: 300L
- Maximum number of passengers: 15
BWA Sport 22 GTO
From the Milanese brand Ribitaly, the BWA Sport 22 GTO is a good mid-range model.
It is distinguished by good acceleration, and a top speed of around 45 knots with a 200 horsepower engine (compared to around 40 knots with a 150 horsepower engine). The offered range is estimated between 160 and 190 nautical miles.
Maneuverable and precise in turns, the BWA Sport 22 GTO offers a spacious cockpit and a rear bench convertible into a sunbathing area, and can accommodate a total of 13 people.
As standard, it includes fairly standard equipment (compass, bilge pump, cushions, lockers, shower ...). As an option, you can choose to add a console or full cover, a ski mast, a wakeboard kit, or even a synthetic teak deck.
Available at 44,280 € without engine, you will need to add 17,600 € for a Suzuki 150 Horsepower 4T. A budget therefore a little over 60,000 € in total, or even a little more if you decide to opt for a more powerful engine version and if you add options.
Characteristics :
- Total length : 6.75m
- Width : 2.75m
- Net weight : 740 Kg (without engine)
- Maximum power : 200 HP (147.2 kW)
- Fuel tank capacity : 190L
- Maximum number of passengers : 13
Some brands offering boats over 6 meters: ASIS, BAT Marine, AVON, Adventure, Bombard, BSC, Centaure, Falcon, Fanale Marine, GRAND, Highfield, Humber, Narwhal, OSPREY, Sillinger ...
Rigid Inflatable Boats > 6 meters
RIBCRAFT 4.8m PRO RIB BOAT
The Pro RIB Boat is one of the smallest models of the Ribcraft brand, versatile and surprisingly resilient in open sea conditions, particularly effective for rescue operations.
With a starting price of 22.600 € HT, the RIBCRAFT 4.8m PRO RIB BOAT is a boat accessible to all budgets. Its excellent value for money makes it an ideal choice for boaters and professionals looking for a reliable, high-performing and versatile boat.
Equipped with an outboard motor capable of reaching up to 70 horsepower, the RIBCRAFT 4.8m PRO RIB BOAT offers remarkable performance for a boat of its size. Its reduced fuel consumption allows you to enjoy long outings at sea without worrying about the budget.
Among the purchase options offered are: additional seats and a bench for two people, anti-slip patches, oars, and the possibility to customize the color or material of the main elements (e.g., stainless steel).
Characteristics :
-
Total Length: 4.8m
-
Width: 2.1m
- Net Weight: 275 Kg (Hull only)
- Maximum Power: 50-70 HP
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 25L
- Maximum Number of Passengers: 6
AB Oceanus 15 VST
The Oceanus 15 VST from the brand AB Inflatables is the ideal solution for couples seeking thrills.
While it is supposed to accommodate more people, the model actually only has 4 seats: a double bench for a couple, while a first seat at the very front of the boat and a second in front of the helm can be suitable for friends or two children for family outings.
The bench has storage to keep your belongings dry. The boat also features a stereo system with speakers mounted under the main seat.
Its central console consists of a large stainless steel steering wheel, with the engine throttle on the right, a Raymarine VHF radio, a stereo control unit, and Yamaha engine instruments.
Its 95L tank allows for outings of several hours without any problem, and the engine will propel you up to 32 knots, at 5700 rpm.
To purchase it, expect to spend a little less than €8,000, without options, which are numerous if you want to treat yourself: swimming ladder, stainless steel ski tow ring, stainless steel light arch, bimini with stainless steel frame, cleats, boat cover, console cover, lifting straps, teak flooring, cd/radio system, compass, gps, vhf pack.
Specifications :
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Total Length: 4.57m
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Width: 1.99m
- Net Weight: 275 Kg (Hull only)
- Maximum Power: 75 HP / 56.0kw
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 95L
- Maximum Number of Passengers: 9
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