The best semi-rigid inflatable boats
While of course, when we talk about semi-rigid inflatable boats, it's the Zodiac brand that first springs to mind, the market is actually populated by dozens and dozens of brands that are jockeying for position.
Far from having a monopoly on the sale of RIB 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 it's fishing, pleasure and water leisure craft or boat and yacht tenders, semi-rigid inflatable boats shine for their versatility and offer many advantages: ease of use, ease of maintenance, affordable prices, stability, buoyancy, etc.
In this article, Orca Retail, supplier of semi-rigid boat repair fabrics, offers you a roundup of a few models in vogue on the market, and for all budgets, in order to know which semi-rigid to choose.
Whether it's top-of-the-range sport boats at over 100.000€, mid-range boats for family outings, or entry-level models for budget sailing, let's review the best RIBs!
Semi-Rigid boats < 8 metres
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 floor will appeal to the widest possible audience.
As for the engine, it is fitted with the latest Mercury Verado 350CC 4-stroke, priced at 29.000 per unit, and can reach speeds of up to 48 knots. The recommended configuration is 3 x 350CC motors.
This model is equipped with 4 berths and 10 seats, 5 of which are protected by the T-Top.
Two solariums, a toilet area, WCs with washbasins and a shower will provide all the comfort you need.
its selling price is currently around 360.000 € excluding VAT, when fitted with Mercury Verado 350cc engines.
Features :
- Overall 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 builder Capelli, who drew inspiration from the savoir-faire artisanry of the association of violin-making in Cremona, birthplace of Umberto Capelli, founder of the workshop, but also the birthplace of the famous Antonio Stradivari, one of the most famous violin makers in the world.
Subtle curves, elegant materials, subtle details, the design is undeniably a great success.
Between them proudly stand two examples of Yamaha's most powerful outboard: the 425bhp XTO. So as not to detract from the overall harmony, the two Japanese V8s are painted khaki to match the boat's gel-coat.
The cockpit is central, well protected by the transom and accommodates a U-shaped bench seat on which at least 8 passengers can sit. The electric table is recessed into the floor.
Inside, the Stradivari 43 offers all the comfort expected of a RIB in this class, namely a cabin with a double berth forward, storage and a side bench seat. A mid-cabin also offers two additional berths, in the center of the boat. A large washroom completes the interior layout, with a washbasin and storage space on one side and a washroom and shower on the other.
At the end of the day, discovering such an ambitious semi-rigid is a real pleasure. Admittedly, its price is aimed at privileged yachtsmen, but isn't that the case with all top-of-the-range products? Sophisticated design, elegant lines, top-notch finish, sailing qualities to match... It's fair to say that the Stradivari 43 plays its part without a false note!
Price: €608,000 ex VAT with 2 Yamaha 425 hp 4-stroke engines.
Features :
- Overall length : 13.00m
- Width : 3.60m
- Net weight : 5500 Kg (without motors)
- 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
- Constructor: Capelli
ZAR 85 SL
Standard-bearer of the " Sport Luxury " line from the Italian brand Zar Formenti, the ZAR 85 SL is a racy family boat, allowing large groups to go out to sea, or even, thanks to its welcoming dimensions, to sleep 2 people.
In fact, under the helm is a cabin with a double berth. The cockpit is functional and designed for sporty 2-up driving (driver and co-driver).
Hyper functional, the ZAR 85SL equips a table and galley with stoves, sink and fridge as standard, as well as plenty of lockers and storage.
On the engine side, with its Suzuki DF 300 APX, the ZAR 85 SL can reach a maximum speed of 40 knots. At 4500 rpm, its cruising speed is 26 knots, with fuel consumption of 48 liters per hour.
The price is approximately €78,800 H.T, to which must be added the price of the engine, at around €24,450 H.T, or just over 100.000 €.
The ZAR85 SL is available in two colours: White Gelcoat and Coloured Gelcoat.
Options available for the ZAR 85SL include : fishing rod holder (sleeps 5), hard tops and sun awnings, 2-compartment fridge (90L), extension to create a bed in the cabin, and marine WC.
Features :
- Overall 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)
- Tank capacity of petrol : 400L
- Water tank capacity : 100L
- Maximum number of passengers : 12-14
Technohull Sea DNA 999
Perfect for watersports outings, enjoying sunbathing in the open sea, or reaching a nearby island, the Sea DNA 999 from Greek brand Technohull doesn't mess around with comfort and performance.
Equipment-wise, the Sea DNA 999 at one of the best deals in our selection. Use of solid teak for most of the elements (platform and deck), shower when leaving the swim, WC and shower inside the console (with a 175-litre freshwater tank), which thanks to a zipped awning can double as a changing cabin, LED courtesy lighting for night-time stopovers, electric cooler, FM radio and audio system with four speakers, large sun awning... the Sea DNA 999 offers the ultimate!
Circulation on board is well thought out, with a rear side passage, wide gangways and generous space between the console and the forward sun deck. Sleeping two people is no problem.
Nervous, the Technohull's 2 engines enable it to reach incredible speeds, even exceeding 70 knots! With its 490-litre fuel tank, it offers a range of 245 miles, enough to make a round trip between the mainland and Corsica without a problem, and all much faster than in an NGV!
To treat yourself to this little gem, reckon on a budget of around 150.000 for the boat itself, and just over 20.000 per engine. As a result, with its many options, the total bill can quickly negotiate over 200.000 €.
Features :
- 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)
- Fuel tank capacity : 570L
- Water tank capacity : 100L
- Maximum number of passengers : 8
Zodiac Medline 9
How could we not mention at least one boat from that iconic French brand Zodiac? For this article, we've decided to introduce you to the Medline 9, which has a passenger capacity.
Features include: an integrated galley with sink (with optional grill), a console incorporating a habitable cabin with toilet, showerhead, WCs, and aft bathing platforms giving access to the sea. The console's three-seater bench seats up to two adults + one child. At the bow and stern of the boat, additional seating coupled with height-adjustable tables create comfortable spaces to enjoy a siesta in the sun. Zodiac has also thought of the little details that are always a pleasure, with 6 USB charging ports, 8 integrated glass holders, plenty of storage space and LED lights for night-time use.
As an option, find the ability to integrate: front balcony, Garmin GPS, fridge, ski pole, bunk beds, and more.
The Medline 9 is highly customisable, with 4 different fabrics for the interior, 4 colours for the floats and 2 colours for its hull.
It's available without engine at around 80.000, and 120.000 with two 200 HP engines capable of reaching 40 knots (more powerful engines can be installed).
Features :
- 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
- Fuel tank capacity :400L
- Water tank capacity : 50L hand shower and 43L WC (waste water)
- Maximum number of passengers : 8-14
Many other manufacturers offer boats 8 metres in length and over, such as Nuova Jolly, Capelli, BRIG, BWA, Joker Boat, LOMAC, MV Marine, North Star, Ranieri, Sacs, Salpa, Selva ...
Semi-Rigid Boats between 6 & 8 metres
SALPA SUN 26
Exceptional hull and onboard comfort for this new 8-metre model, which concentrates all the innovations and know-how of the SALPA shipyard.
After the success of the SOLEIL range and in particular the 23 and 28, the SALPA shipyard has 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 boat that is comfortable yet easy to transport, and for budgets above 100.000 €.
His high-performance hull guarantees remarkable stability and comfortable sailing even in rough seas. Soleil 26 is also performing well, with a top speed of 46.5 knots and good sea keeping. Suitable for pleasure boating, fishing, water sports and family outings, this versatile boat will give you unforgettable moments on the water.
Features :
- Total length : 8.00m
- Width : 3.00m
- Net weight : 1500Kg (without motor)
- Maximum power:300 HP
- Tank capacity fuel : 300L
- Maximum number of passengers : 15
BWA Sport 22 GTO
From Milan-based Ribitaly, the BWA Sport 22 GTO is a good mid-range model.
It features good acceleration, and a top speed of around 45 knots with a 200-horsepower engine (compared with around 40 knots with a 150-horsepower engine). The range offered is estimated at between 160 and 190 nautical miles.
Manageable and precise in turns, the BWA Sport 22 GTO offers a spacious cockpit as well as an aft saloon convertible into a solarium, and accommodates 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 awning, a ski mast, a wakeboard kit or a synthetic teak deck.
Available at 44.280 without engine, plus an additional 17.600 for a Suzuki 150 Horsepower 4T. A budget therefore slightly higher than 60.000€ in total, or even a little more if you decide to upgrade to a more powerful engine version and add options.
Features :
- Total length : 6.75m
- Width : 2.75m
- Net weight : 740 Kg (without motor)
- Maximum power : 200 HP (147.2 kW)
- Fuel tank capacity: 190L
- Maximum number of passengers : 13
Some brands offering boats over 6 metres: ASIS, BAT Marine, AVON, Adventure, Bombard, BSC, Centaur, Falcon, Fanale Marine, GRAND, Highfield, Humber, Narwhal, OSPREY, Sillinger ...
Semi-Rigid Boats > 6 metres
RIBCRAFT 4.8m PRO RIB BOAT
The Pro RIB Boat is one of the smallest models in 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 yachtsmen and professionals looking for a reliable, high-performance and versatile boat.
Equipped with an outboard motor of up to 70 horsepower, the RIBCRAFT 4.8m PRO RIB BOAT offers remarkable performance for a boat of its size. Its low fuel consumption means you can enjoy long outings at sea without worrying about the budget.
Purchase options include: seats and an additional bench for two people, anti-slip patches, oars and the option to customise the colour or material of the main elements (e.g. stainless steel).
Features :
-
Total length: 4.8m
-
Width: 2.1m
- Net weight : 275 Kg (Hull only)
- Maximum power: 50-70 HP
- Tank capacity of fuel : 25L
- Maximum number of passengers : 6
AB Oceanus 15 VST
The Oceanus 15 VST from AB Inflatables is the ideal solution for thrill-seeking couples.
While it is supposed to be able to accommodate more people, the model actually only has 4 seats: a double bench seat for a couple, while a first seat at the very front of the boat and a second in front of the helm station could be suitable for friends or two children for family outings.
The bench seat has storage to keep your belongings dry. The boat also has a stereo system with speakers mounted under the main seat.
His center console consists of a large stainless steel steering wheel, with the engine throttle on the right, a Raymarine VHF radio, stereo control unit and Yamaha engine instruments.
The 95L fuel tank means you can go out for several hours without any problems, while the engine will propel you at up to 32 knots, at 5700 rpm.
To buy it, expect a small less than 8.000 €, without the options, of which there are many if you want to treat yourself: swim ladder, stainless steel ski tow ring, stainless steel light hoop, bimini with stainless steel frame, cleats, boat cover, console cover, lifting straps, teak floor, cd/radio system, compass, gps, vhf pack.
Features :
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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
- Tank capacity of petrol : 95L
- Maximum number of passengers : 9
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