Airforce

If you’re looking for a boat between 10 and 20 meters long for southern coastal adventures, one that lets you cruise the sea with friends, hop between islands, host parties and dinners onboard, and enjoy comfortable overnight stays, then the new generation of maxi-RIBs deserves your attention.

For those unfamiliar, a RIB (rigid inflatable boat) is a motorised vessel with inflatable sides and a rigid hull made from materials like plastic, aluminium, or wood. However, calling the latest maxi-RIBs mere “vessels” doesn’t quite do them justice—they are, in every sense, true luxury yachts.

The inflatable tubes on these boats add over a meter to their width. Once on a plane, these tubes barely touch the water and remain elevated even during sharp turns. But don’t think the boat’s buoyancy relies solely on these inflatable sides. The rigid hull plays a crucial role as well, offering incredible stability and flotation. Typically made from fibreglass or composite materials, these hulls boast a low weight and exceptional strength. RIB hulls are designed with steep deadrise angles and are equipped with longitudinal and transverse steps for optimal performance.

Thanks to their outstanding buoyancy, shallow draft, and cleverly designed decks and cabins, maxi-RIBs offer remarkable space. Take, for example, the 12-meter BWA featured in this review—it can accommodate up to 24 passengers! And the speed capabilities are equally impressive. Imagine a 20-meter cruiser confidently cruising at 70 knots—that’s the kind of performance we’re talking about.

The inflatable tubes also act as an extra layer of protection during docking, making it much easier to manoeuvre in crowded marinas without worrying about damaging your own boat—or someone else’s.

Manufacturers offer a wide range of engine options, with many models available in both inboard and outboard configurations. This allows you to choose the perfect balance of speed, fuel efficiency, and cost to suit your needs.

In short, the new generation of maxi-RIBs combines luxury, performance, and practicality, making them an excellent choice for anyone seeking unforgettable experiences on the water.

Granturismo 14.0 X, Lomac

Six years ago, the flagship model of this Milan-based brand (how many maxi-RIB manufacturers are headquartered in Italy’s design capital!) caused a sensation at the Cannes Yachting Festival with its impressive size and sleek lines.

In 2024, Federico Fiorentino unveiled the second generation of this model, featuring a redesigned stern and increased power. Access to the boat is now easier thanks to a convenient folding ladder, which replaces the narrow carbon gangway of the original GT 14.0. The aft sunbed has been narrowed to make room for side walkways leading to the cockpit. A wakeboarding pylon has also been added to the stern.

The U-shaped sofa from the previous model has been replaced with two straight benches, adding two extra seats and bringing the total capacity to 16 people. Between the benches, two height-adjustable convertible tables have been installed. The wet bar is fully equipped with a refrigerator, freezer, sink with a cutting board, and an induction cooktop. Both the cockpit and aft lounge area can be fully enclosed with a canopy that attaches to the hardtop.

The cabin offers 178 cm of headroom. While there is no overhead hatch, a long side window allows plenty of natural light to flood the interior. The first thing that catches the eye is the large double bed.

This RIB is highly manoeuvrable and handles sharp turns with ease. It is equipped with the modern Helm Master joystick, making docking in crowded marinas especially convenient.

Pirelli 42 SE, Sacs Tecnorib x Mansory (13.25 m)

For over 20 years, Sacs Tecnorib has partnered with tire manufacturer Pirelli to produce high-end cruisers with fibreglass hulls and exceptional seaworthiness. The exterior and interior design of their models is crafted by Swedish designer Ted Mannerfelt. Among their most iconic creations is the Pirelli 42. In 2024, an exclusive version of this model, developed in collaboration with luxury car tuning atelier Mansory, was unveiled in Dubai and later showcased at European boat shows.

The standard version of the Pirelli 42 is a reliable vessel designed for reaching places inaccessible by land but easily accessible by water. It emphasises relaxation zones, ease of handling, and high-speed performance (up to 65 knots) with excellent manoeuvrability, thanks to its deep-V hull with twin steps. Onboard, there’s a comfortable cabin with a private bathroom. At the bow, a spacious sunbathing area provides the perfect spot for secluded relaxation. The cockpit is customised to the owner’s preferences, making it easy to accommodate a large number of guests. The boat can host up to 18 people in total!

The shipyard offers eight engine configurations, and for the Special Edition, they chose the top-tier option: three 8-cylinder Mercury Racing outboard engines, each delivering 500 horsepower. This setup allows the boat to reach an impressive 65 knots while cruising through the Persian Gulf.

Mansory aimed to create a RIB that would leave a strong impression at first glance. To achieve this, large black logos were placed everywhere imaginable: on the backrest of the aft sunbed, on each engine, the steering wheel, the joystick, the audio speakers, and, of course, the inflatable tubes along the sides. This attention to detail is justified, as the steering wheel, joystick, and speakers were all custom-designed for this edition.

Carbon fibre dominates the design, creating a striking aesthetic reminiscent of a “hip-hop star stepping onto the red carpet.” White upholstery and tubes are paired with Mansory’s signature black carbon stripe on a dark background. The deck is crafted from teak, while the hardtop features a carbon fibre spoiler with integrated Hella spotlights. The RIB’s colour scheme can also be customised to the owner’s preferences.

X10CC, Zodiac (9.99 m)

Among professional adventurers and water recreation enthusiasts, Zodiac is the equivalent of Jeep in the world of off-road vehicles. Expedition RIBs are often simply referred to as "Zodiacs."

In January, the French company launched sales of its largest model yet—a 10-meter cabin RIB. This is a true workhorse, indispensable for water excursions. It can carry all the necessary gear and water toys, delivering countless unforgettable experiences. Where a runabout might struggle, this shallow-draft boat glides through with ease. And it’s built tough enough to handle up to 20 people onboard (though the shipyard officially rates it for 13).

The seating and tables are modular, allowing you to remove or add them to lighten the boat or create extra passenger space. The boat is equipped with plenty of storage compartments, making it easy to organise sports equipment, clothing, and provisions for extended journeys. For those who prefer not to return to port, there’s a cabin with a comfortable bed and a bathroom.

Zodiac is renowned for its high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship. Factory tests have shown that with twin 400-horsepower Mercury engines, the boat consumes just 3 litres of fuel per nautical mile. It can reach a top speed of 60 knots with seven passengers onboard. This impressive weight-to-power ratio means it uses 30% less fuel than a rigid-hull boat of the same size. With a 760-litre fuel tank, the X10CC can travel approximately 250 nautical miles without refuelling.

Strider 13, Sacs Technorib

A bestseller from another brand under the Sacs Marine umbrella, the Strider 13 received a new hull in 2024—wider and more stable than before. This makes it an excellent tender for a large yacht or a perfect RIB for enjoying warm seas and leisurely outings.

Diving from this boat is pure pleasure, thanks to the wide swim platform that extends far out. The central section of the platform can be submerged into the water, and there’s an option to add a carbon shower nearby. Beneath the sunbed, there’s a garage spacious enough to store a Seabob. Even if the underwater scooter is left outside, there’s still plenty of room for other gear.

The cockpit layout is thoughtfully designed for entertaining. A generous host can invite numerous guests to gather around the table, which consists of two foldable sections that combine into one large dining surface. Guests can comfortably sit around it on the U-shaped sofa.

Behind the captain’s seat, there’s a wet bar equipped with a sink and an induction cooktop. This setup allows you to go beyond just serving cocktails and snacks—you can even prepare a full meal onboard.

The cabin is surprisingly spacious. It features a bed with storage underneath, large enough to hold almost all your luggage. The bed connects to a long sofa, which can double as a mini-office by removing the cushions. Opposite the bed, there’s a fully equipped bathroom with a rain shower and a separate toilet. Additionally, there’s an optional space under the stairs for two more beds. The standard package includes a teak finish for the cabin, adding a touch of luxury.

Alpha 40, Technohull (12.1 m)

Before the official launch of this 12-meter model, a pre-order list for 28 units had already been filled. What a way to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Greek shipyard specialising in maxi-RIBs! Its head, Gerasimos Petratos, takes particular pride in the deck’s impressive capacity (up to 12 people) and the carbon hardtop design, which is seamlessly integrated with the windscreen and supported by elegantly curved carbon pillars. Beneath the hardtop lies the central helm console with three seats.

The relaxation areas can be configured to suit the buyer’s preferences. The boat is available in two versions. In the outboard engine configuration, the swim platform is V-shaped, with a cutout to accommodate two engines of up to 500 hp each. The small aft sunbed can fit one adult lying across the beam. This is more than sufficient, as there’s a larger sunbed located at the bow. With inboard engines, the swim platform can be extended into a straight shape, allowing for a larger sunbed. Additionally, the cockpit layout offers flexibility: you can opt for a second row of three seats or maintain a spacious dining area.

The lower cabin is a pleasant surprise, featuring a ceiling height of 185 cm and ample natural light streaming through a skylight. Inside, there’s a wide double bed with plenty of storage space. A separate room houses the bathroom facilities.

The deep-V hull, designed with a steep deadrise angle and three pronounced longitudinal and transverse steps, is built using Technohull’s proprietary Dynastream technology. The sharp bow slices through waves effortlessly, reducing slamming, while the transverse steps create low-pressure zones and channels that draw air beneath the hull at speed. This generates an air cushion effect, reducing friction between the boat and the water, enabling quicker planing, higher speeds, and improved fuel efficiency.

MX-16, Cantieri Magazzù (16.7 m)

The new flagship from the Italian shipyard is officially classified as a maxi-RIB, although instead of traditional inflatable tubes, its sides feature semi-circular longitudinal chambers filled with foam and encased in Orca neoprene-hypalon. This same solution is used in the Rebel cruisers by Sacs Tecnorib, one of whose popular models is reviewed separately in this issue.

The hull, designed with two longitudinal and three transverse steps, is optimised to reduce hydrodynamic resistance, enhance performance, and improve fuel efficiency.

The yacht’s layout is characterised by varying deck heights and a central passage through the cockpit. From the teak-finished submersible swim platform, you step up to pass between two sunbeds, then descend into a dining area sheltered from splashes by high bulwarks, leading to the helm station. To access the bow, you need to step up again—a design choice made to increase the cabin’s ceiling height below. In front of the windscreen is a second sunbed, while at the very bow, there’s an additional recessed area resembling an open garage on larger yachts. This space is ideal for storing sports equipment and water toys, such as a Seabob. Alternatively, you can outfit it with a coffee table and enjoy the moment, sitting on sun-warmed teak, sipping a cappuccino, and admiring the sea.

The lower deck features two cabins, a shared bathroom, a fully equipped galley, and a dinette (a small dining area). The aft section of the vessel can also be configured to include a captain’s cabin.

Premium 42, BWA (12.4 m)

This Lombardy-based company creates boats that not only meet virtually any demand but also turn heads wherever they go—especially when it comes to the flagship model of its most premium line. BWA (short for Breventani William Adriano) is one of the oldest brands specialising in RIBs, with a history dating back to the 1950s. Originally, the company focused on serving scuba divers, adventurers, rescue teams, and coast guards. For BWA, durability and safety have always been top priorities.

The BWA 42 Premium is CE-certified as a Category B offshore vessel, meaning this RIB is built to handle challenging weather conditions, withstanding winds of up to Force 8 and waves up to 4 meters high. At 4.2 meters wide, the boat is spacious enough to accommodate up to 24 people—comparable to a large yacht!

Onboard, you’ll find a well-designed dining area featuring two comfortable sofas and a table that can be folded and adjusted in height. Lowering the table and adding a cushion transforms the space into an additional sunbed. The forward sofa can be replaced with a compact galley equipped with a grill and sink, making it easy to clean, cook, and serve freshly caught fish right on deck. Beneath the sofa are large storage compartments.

The helm station is reminiscent of the driver’s seat in a luxury car, complete with a steering wheel-style helm. The bow area is dedicated entirely to relaxation and entertainment, featuring a luxurious lounger for two or three people and a spacious sunbed. A second table can be added between them, providing a private spot for snacks, or you can place a cushion on the tabletop to connect the lounger and sunbed into one large relaxation area. Beneath the sunbed, you’ll find even more expansive storage compartments. Additionally, a teak step at the bow allows for convenient bow docking.

Below deck, there’s a fully equipped cabin with a double bed. An optional second cabin can be added at the stern for even more comfort and versatility.

Venom 44, Ribco (13.15 m)

This powerful Greek maxi-RIB, with its bold and rugged design, can reach speeds of over 60 knots in its top configuration. Its layout is unique, featuring two cabins dedicated solely to sleeping quarters, with storage compartments and the bathroom kept separate.

The first cabin is located under the deck in the bow and is concealed behind teak panelling. To access it, simply press a button, and the ceiling lifts to reveal the entrance. The teak surface above can be fitted with a cushion, transforming it into a sunbed that comfortably accommodates 2–3 adults.

The lounger in front of the windscreen also lifts to reveal a spacious bathroom equipped with a toilet, shower, and sink.

Behind the separate helm seats, there's a large three-seater sofa, under which a refrigerator and sink faucet are cleverly integrated. A side compartment houses a capsule coffee machine—because no Mediterranean getaway is complete without aromatic coffee!

Next, there’s a sleekly designed two-seater sofa facing aft. This setup increases the seating capacity in the aft lounge area, the primary gathering spot for guests on this RIB. Beneath the two individual sofa seats, you’ll find two small storage compartments.

The dining table in the transom area is designed to seat six people. At the stern, two sun loungers lift to provide access to the second cabin, which measures 2.35 by 1.85 meters. A tent is attached to the underside of the loungers, allowing them to be left raised in warm weather, creating a cosy tent-like space for overnight stays.

200-S Racing, Anvera (20 m)

It’s hardly fair to compare this colossal RIB with its sharp, striking lines to any of today’s swift, predatory creatures. The Anvera 200-S Racing is more like a hunting velociraptor—a true dinosaur that cannot be stopped. Its debut is set to be one of the most highly anticipated events at the upcoming 2025 Cannes Yachting Festival and Monaco Yacht Show. The launch of the first hull is scheduled for July, coinciding with the brand’s 10th anniversary, and pre-orders are already open.

Measuring 20 meters in length, this RIB is impressively wide—6 meters across the hull, expanding to 7 meters with the side terraces extended. The racing version is set to outperform many superyachts, powered by twin MAN V12 engines, each delivering 2200 horsepower, enabling it to reach a staggering top speed of over 70 knots. For those seeking the perfect balance of power and comfort, the standard version offers twin MAN V8 engines with 1300 horsepower each. This configuration delivers a still-impressive top speed of over 50 knots, with a cruising speed of 40 knots, while consuming significantly less fuel—an area where the shipyard has placed particular emphasis on efficiency.

As for the helm station and overall design, the company is keeping details under wraps for now, teasing that it will be “a revolution!”

Production of the 200-S Racing will be limited to just a few units per year, with a wide range of features and finishes available for customisation to suit individual preferences.

45 SCR, Olympic Yachts (15 m)

This Greek beauty, with its sculpted silhouette, resembles an ancient athlete, while its inflatable tubes evoke the image of a powerful shoulder frame. The superstructure is reminiscent of a Doric helmet, complete with a nose guard and eye slits, which serve as the cabin’s hatches.

The newer version, equipped with inboard engines, features an extended swim platform that is longer than the one on the outboard variant. The 45 SCR Stern Drives boasts one of the most spacious aft lounging areas among 45-foot cruisers. Up to seven people can comfortably relax on two corner sofas here. For more space while at anchor, the seats can be raised. An additional five passengers can enjoy the bow lounge.

One of the standout features of this vessel is the two-meter-high ceilings in the cabin, creating a bright, airy, and open interior. At the bow, there’s a triangular salon with two sofas and a table. By adding cushions to the centre, the space transforms into a wide, comfortable bed.

The cabin offers plenty of storage, along with a kitchen and a bathroom equipped with a shower and electric toilet. The interiors are finished with fine woods, and the shipyard provides extensive customisation options, including a personalised colour scheme. It’s an excellent opportunity to unleash your creativity. Notably, Olympic Yachts offers a unique design inspired by Hugo Pratt's comic book series about the legendary adventurer, Corto Maltese.