Choosing the right size RIB boat for your needs

October 23, 2023 Orca Blog

Choosing the ideal size of RIB boat for your needs

RIBs are a popular option for water sports enthusiasts, fishermen and boating enthusiasts.

Choosing the ideal size for your RIB boat is crucial to ensuring an optimal experience on the water.

In this article, we'll explore the factors to consider when choosing the perfect size RIB boat for your specific needs.

Intended use: tailor the size of your RIB to your hobbies

The first step in choosing the ideal size for your RIB boat is to determine how you plan to use it. Here are some common scenarios:

Water sports

If you're into water sports, such as waterskiing, wakeboarding or tubing, a semi-rigid boat of 4.5 to 6 metres is generally recommended. These sizes offer greater stability for these activities.

Fishing

For those who enjoy freshwater fishing, a semi-rigid boat of around 3.5 to 4.5 metres may suffice. However, forsea fishingyou should opt for a 4.5 to 6 metre model to cope with the more demanding marine conditions.

Pleasure boating

If you plan to use your RIB boat for pleasure outings with family or friends, the size will depend on how many people you want to accommodate.

Semi-rigid boat from 4.5 to 5 metres: In general, these boats can comfortably accommodate from 6 to 8 passengers, depending on the layout of the boat.
Semi-rigid boat from 5.5 to 6 metres: Models of this size can generally accommodate from 8 to 12 passengers.

semi rigid boat

Performance and motorisation

Engine size is a critical factor in the performance of your RIB boat.

Rigid semi-rigid boat from 4.5 to 5 metres: For this size of boat, engines with power ranging from 50 to 90 horsepower are generally recommended to ensure good performance. You can generally reach speeds ranging from 15 to 30 knots (approximately 28 to 56 km/h).
Semi-rigid boat from 5.5 to 6 metres: Equip an engine from 90 to 150 horsepower. Models of this size can reach speeds ranging from 25 to 40 knots (approximately 46 to 74 km/h).

Your boat dealer can advise you on the right engine to suit the size of your boat.

Costs

The costs associated with a RIB boat vary according to size. Here is a rough estimate of the costs:

Semi-rigid boat from 4.5 to 5.5 metres: The initial purchase cost is generally between €15,000 and €40,000, depending on features and make. Annual maintenance costs, including insurance, fuel and mooring fees, can range from 2,000 to 5,000 euros.
Semirigid boat of 6 metres or more: Larger boats tend to be more expensive, with new purchase prices starting at around €40,000 and can exceed €100,000. Annual maintenance costs are also higher, ranging from €4,000 to €10,000 or more.

It's important to factor these costs into your overall budget to ensure the boat you choose is affordable in the long term.

Water test

Before making a final decision, Orca Retail strongly recommends testing the boat on the water. This will enable you to familiarise yourself with its behaviour and see whether it meets your expectations in terms of size and performance.