Top Tenders and RIBS of 2021

Here’s a look at some of today’s top Tender and RIB builders and their models.

A tender by another name is…a boat. And just like boats, tenders are getting bigger, fancier, faster, more versatile, and a bit more complex. As big boats have transformed into SUVs on the water, so has the tender, particularly the rigid inflatable boat (RIB), that often serve as the family boat for picnics, day trips, and watersports, or a runabout from your dockside home to the waterfront restaurant or a happy hour cruise when the mothership is just too much.

Most cruisers choose the largest tender they can afford, carry or tow. Size and weight are tradeoffs. Single-skin bottom RIBs are lighter, 10- to 20-percent lighter, but they don’t handle rough water well. Meanwhile, a center console RIB with a double floor and all the goodies can be a handful to get onto the swim platform chocks. More and more cruisers in the 40- to 80-foot range are towing tenders rather than carrying them feeling bigger is better.

Because RIBS have become, faster, stronger, quieter, and feature-packed, they’ve also migrated to becoming the primary vessel for some or at least a strong second for the lion’s share of daily use when the big boat is dock-bound. As electronics get smaller and less expensive and add-ons become lighter and more practical, tenders are gaining advanced features that allow them to perform duties well beyond a simple dinghy. Sunpads, rear swim platforms, tow bars, sleeping cabins, freshwater showers, underwater lighting, cupholders, depth transducers, stowage space, and swanky cushion arrangements are de rigueur.

Let’s look at some of these uber-toys that can commute, cruise, fish, and be part of the playground.

Highfield Sport 390

Highfield Boats just introduced 11 new models from 10-26 feet. These aluminum bottom RIBs are tough, so you don’t need to worry about dinging the bottom on a beach or a trailer, but they’re also posh with diamond stitched upholstery, faux-teak decking and bathing platforms. The SP 390 (12’ 10” LOA) has a high tensile chromated and powder-coated aluminum hull, a low-profile console offset to starboard, a heavy-duty rub strake, and a full-length keel guard. If you want to spiff one up, add the optional roll bar, Bimini, and carbon console dash. This model could even serve as a lightweight option for a larger dinghy garage. highfieldboats.com

Lomac Adrenalina 8.5

Looking for a sexy Italian? Check out this luxurious maxi RIB from Lomac with aggressive styling by Federico Fiorentino. Powered by single (220-350 hp) or twin outboards, this RIB carries up to 16 people, six of whom can gather around the drinks table in the bow. The aft settee morphs into a sundeck, and the center console hides a space that can become either a stowage room or a head with an electric toilet. For exploring farther afield, there’s an electric windlass and a freshwater shower, and with twins (up to 200 hp each), there’s mind-blowing performance. Add Garmin instruments, a Fusion stereo and a bow thruster (yes, on a tender), and you’ve got a boat that will announce that you’ve arrived. lomac.it

Argos Nautic 450 and 515

For something quite different, check out two new models from Argos Nautic that are powered by diesel engines. The 450 (15’ 6” LOA) carries seven while the 515 (17’ 8” LOA) accommodates nine. Both are powered by a 110-hp Yanmar and are expected to deliver a top speed of 33 knots. Customization is the word of the day. There’s triple stitching upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and the option to color-match to the mothership. These models are minimalist in design with clean lines, stainless steel accents, and little ornamentation, so they’ll complement contemporary yachts and turn heads as they speed by. argosnautic.com

Williams Jet Tender DieselJet 415

Another diesel option is the DieselJet 415 (13’ 6” LOA) by Williams Jet Tender. Also powered by a 110-hp Yanmar and likely to reach the same speeds as the Argos Nautic (33 knots), the compact DieselJet is fully customizable, including tube colors and upholstery. With a 7-inch Raymarine Axiom MFD on the center console and six seats (both forward and aft-facing), this little speedster is a tender, a toy, and a runabout in one. Now you can have one fuel source for both the mothership and the tender. There’s even an option of a folding helm station so you can tuck it up into an onboard dinghy garage. Other options include automatic tube inflators, a 9-inch MFD, and shore power for ultimate flexibility. williamjettenders.com

Walker Bay Venture 16

A new addition to the company’s Venture line, this 16-footer offers three driving positions with a helm seat that has a flip-up bolster so you can drive standing, sitting, or somewhere in between. Rated for 10 passengers, the Venture 16 weighs 725 lbs. and with a 100-hp outboard, it has an estimated range of 241 miles. The tall and upright console provides protection from the wind and accommodates a 12-inch chartplotter, VHF, a stereo head, and multiple gauges. Six cupholders and a freshwater shower are included, and there’s even an integrated cooler in front of the console so you can stay out and explore all day. walkerbay.com

Onda Tenders 341P

Specially adapted from a patrol boat, Onda Tenders’ 341P is a 34-foot RIB with Scandinavian design flare by Ted and Ocke Mannerfelt. Although redesigned for the leisure market, the 341P has a rugged feel that can take on the elements with aluminum seat frames, a hardtop, and a 25-gallon freshwater tank for rinsing off after a rough ride. Powered by twin outboards (up to 400 hp), this boat delivers speeds of 50 knots and slices through rough conditions as if through hot butter. This Greek speedster has a deep-V hull but with a shallow draft and carries 158 gallons of fuel so it can venture anywhere. ondatenders.com

Zodiac Medline 6.8

Replacing the Medline 660, the new Medline 6.8 is a mid-range offering (just under 22 feet) from Zodiac. Rated for up to 14 passengers, this new model has five lockers, sunpads forward and aft, and a fully equipped offset console. It comes in 64 color combinations and is powered by a single outboard (maximum 250 hp). The reverse arch holds a soft Bimini and the tall windshield will keep the driver and her companion dry. There’s even a self-launching anchor so you can tuck away in a secluded cove for the afternoon. The U-shaped settee aft, when not set up as a lounge, has a hi/lo table and will seat four for dinner. zodiac-nautic.com

Airship 300 Diesel Sport

The diesels have it on this list. Introducing the Airship 300 DS, a 30-foot RIB with a 3.0L Mercury and a Bravo 3X sterndrive. There’s also a deep-V hull and a 24-degree deadrise for excellent handling. Expect a top speed of around 50 knots and with a 67-gallon aluminum tank, you’ll be able to run a long day without worrying about fuel. This model has a long options list including an upgrade to a 120-gallon fuel tank, an aluminum 5×7 T-top, a choice of brand in MFDs, Lenco trim tabs, a shore power plug, transom shower, stainless steel Sampson post, and Mercury’s VesselView screen. airshipribs.com

Technohull Explorer 40

A truly multifunctional vessel, the Explorer 40 by Technohull is a showstopper. Whether island hopping or entertaining, this one makes a great stand-alone primary vessel. Choose twin Mercury outboards (350-450 hp) or a single Yamaha 425 hp with a joystick. If you’d rather leave the gasoline for others, opt for twin Mercruiser Diesel 370 Bravo 3s. With 211 gallons of onboard fuel, you’ll have plenty of destination options and with the deep-V ventilated hull, you’ll get there quickly and comfortably. This is one sexy beast that showcases premium upholstery and teak and carbon finishes. There’s even a cabin if you’d like to weekend on this demon. technohull.com

Albemarle 30 Express – 2021 Sportfish Roundup

Albemarle 30 Express

The new 30 Express (33’ 6” LOA, 10’ 6” beam) offers the ultimate in ocean fishing prowess in a sleek compact package featuring a step sheer and Carolina style from its bow to stern. True to its Carolina heritage that spans 43 years, the 30 Express has a deep-V solid fiberglass hull has a 24-degree transom deadrise and is designed to make offshore runs in comfort and safety. Offered with twin or triple 300-hp Yamaha outboards mounted on a custom Armstrong bracket and matched to Yamaha’s silky smooth Helm Master EX electronic steering, the 30 Express is outfitted with a 64-square-foot cockpit, which includes a transom livewell, a pair of macerated draining fish wells beneath its nonskid deck, a transom door, a tackle center, and mezzanine seating. The helm has forward-facing seating for three, excellent visibility, and a rigid acrylic enclosure. A standard anchor and windlass system with a thru-stem roller, a full galley, and overnight accommodations are among a long list of standard items. albemarleboats.com

2020 Center Console Buyers Guide

Our Center Console Buyers Guide has options for everyone.

Center consoles were the hottest boat introductions this past spring as builders launched versatile models in all shapes and sizes. The theme this year continued to be “everything for everyone” as most boats are now asked to do double and triple duty from specific species fishing to general family adventure. The latest designs are feature-laden and thoughtfully laid out so whether they’re taking a bunch of buddies fishing, tubing with the kids, or harbor entertaining with friends, they can do just about anything. Imagine a quiet morning on glassy water with coffee in hand or a spirited fight with the big one on the line in lumpy seas. Any way you spend it, time on a center console is the first step to becoming well centered. Enjoy our Center Console Buyers Guide!

Scout 530 LXF

Regal 38 SAV

SeaVee 390z

Grady-White Canyon 336

Blue Wave Boats 2800 Makaira

Cobia 350

SeaHunter 46 CTS

Marlow Prowler 375 Havana

Century Boats 3200 CC

More Boats Added Daily Through July

By Zuzana Prochazka, Southern Boating July 2020

Want more Center Consoles?

Download the 2018 Center Console Roundup

Download the 2017 Center Console Roundup

Download the 2016 Center Console Roundup

Center Console Roundup

Our Center Console Roundup has options for everyone.

Far beyond the basics, today’s center consoles offer features to make boating more fun. And, in some cases, more luxurious. The evolution of the age-old, center console design continues to improve its versatility and usability for a wide range of watersport enthusiasts.

Center console boats elicit images of everything from a single-engine, 20-foot runabout to a 60-foot, carbon-infused, luxury fishing machine with quad outboards dominating the transom. Each year, builders school us on how versatile center consoles are, how much they’ve evolved and what models technically fall under that moniker.

Your father’s center console has morphed, and it’s not hard to find upscale features offered as standard equipment. Multiple and larger engines, gyrostabilizers, air-conditioned cockpits, side gates cut into gunwales, full outdoor galleys, and complete interior accommodations are just some of the evolutions you can have on what used to be a fairly utilitarian design. That means these boats are asked to do double and triple duty as fishing boats, dive boats, tow boats, weekenders, and crowd-pleasing entertaining platforms.

Powerful, quiet, fuel-sipping propulsion has enabled the center console to go just about anywhere, get there quickly and maybe even stay the weekend due to numerous lux amenities so cruisers won’t feel like they’re camping. Whether you’re an old salt with multiple center consoles under your belt or haven’t considered one yet, check out some of the latest designs. Maybe one of these new models in our Center Console Roundup will leave you perfectly centered.

By Zuzana Prochazka, Southern Boating July 2019

Want more Center Consoles?

Download the 2018 Center Console Roundup

Download the 2017 Center Console Roundup

Download the 2016 Center Console Roundup

Blackfin 332CC

Blackfin launched its new 332CC with a choice of engine packages.

Opt for either twin Yamahas (300-hp to 425-hp) or twin Mercurys (300-hp to 400-hp) and expect to reach top speeds from 45 to 57 mph depending on engine choice and conditions. The central rigging station doubles as the entertainment center with two large pullout coolers and twin sinks so you can keep your fish guts and your hors d’ oeuvres separate.

The hardtop can be accessed via the aft cockpit as well as a dedicated hatch, and there’s a pantographic door to the head. Forward of the console, you’ll find a lounge with large integrated storage for buckets or dive tanks. Access to it is easy with the help of gas shocks that hold the compartment open. At the helm, the driver benefits from twin MFDs and an electrically operated helm seat with folding armrests. The Blackfin 332CC is a solid option for anglers wanting a bit more than a fishing platform.

33′ 2″ LOA, 10′ 6″ beam

blackfinboats.com

Return to the Center Console Roundup

Midnight Express 43 Carbon Edition

The Midnight Express 43 Carbon Edition is all carbon fiber.

Although not the first carbon fiber center console by Midnight Express, the 43 Open Carbon Edition that launches this month is a special one. The full carbon-fiber model will have five Mercury outboard motors.

Combine this power with the lightweight construction that saves 2,500 pounds over the previous version, and you have a stiffer hull that punches through rough water at higher top speeds—approximately 8 to 10 mph over her predecessor.

That means it’s possible to nudge 100 mph on this new boat, which is a hair-raising proposition. As with all Midnight Express models, this one is fully customizable with personalized flooring, interior cabin layouts, extra fuel tank capacity, and variable seating options. The Miami-based builder offers models 34 to 60 feet in length, and if you want to be noticed when you arrive, a fully carbon center console on steroids is not a bad way to go.

43′ LOA, 12’6″ Beam

midnightboats.com

Return to the Center Console Roundup

Top 15 Tenders and RIBS

Top 15 Tenders and RIBs

Here’s a look at some of today’s top Tender and RIB builders and their models.

A rigid deep-V hull made from composite plastic, fiberglass or aluminum—a Rigid Inflatable Boat—is an efficient high-performance planing hull, but RIBs often must be stored on a trailer or set of hanging davits.

Tougher fabrics, lighter accessories and more powerful engines have continued the trend of making today’s tenders and RIBs more versatile than ever. For some, a RIB is their only vessel, a do-it-all wonder that is easy to operate, gentle around other boats because of the rubber collar, and filled with features (like a head) that make them comfortable for all.

Today’s RIBs benefit from outboard motors that are better than ever—cleaner, more powerful and easier to service. Some RIBs are utilitarian and built for durability. Others are loaded with comfort features, such as soft seats, carpet and ski-tow eyes for recreational towing of tubes, skiers and wakeboarders.

Zodiac Pro 6.5

The newly redesigned Zodiac Pro 6.5 has more seating capacity, storage, and 25 percent more interior space than the previous generation. This allows for plenty of room to invite up to 10 guests to join in the excitement. Zodiac didn’t forget about critical functional features either.

The company increased the size of the fuel tank to 50 gallons for more range, and the transom design can handle either twin 80-hp or a single 175-hp engine installation for optimum performance. The Pro 6.5’s deep-V hull and self-bailing deck deliver a safe, comfortable and dry ride. The highlight of the storage space is a new large stern locker able to house all critical tackle. The tubes and deck are available in multiple colors for additional customization.

20’2″ LOA, 8’4″ beam

zodiac-nautic.com

Achilles HB-315DX

Achilles has completed a makeover of its most popular RIB in 2019—the HB-315DX. The builder’s five-passenger bestseller was modified to include integral bow locker. The new vented bow locker is large enough to be a comfortable seat and accommodate a three-gallon gas tank. It’s also equipped with a dedicated sealed tube running under the deck that allows you to run your fuel line to the drain well at the transom for a quick and easy hookup to your motor.

The advantages of this new design include better weight distribution by moving the weight of the gas tank forward and clearing the deck area of the clutter. Powered by a 20-hp motor, she runs to a top speed of 25 knots. All Achilles boats are manufactured with CSM fabric using a four-layer seam construction for durability.

10’4″ LOA, 5’5″ beam

achillesboats.com

Airship 340

The Airship 340 replaces the builder’s 330 and adds high-quality features. The remodeled transom includes an incorporated engine setback, a step for boarding and extended swim platform for watersports. Construction features remain consistent and utilize varying density foam cores and vinylester resins to form a lightweight, yet a strong vessel.

A fiberglass hardtop is also new for 2019 and along with the tapered tubes, give the Airship its unique style. An improved twin-step hull provides added safety and better fuel economy—2.5 miles per gallon at a 50-mph cruise. With the standard tow eye, the craft exhibits excellent towing characteristics when used as yacht tenders and RIBs. The base 340 comes nicely equipped and offers unlimited options to support any use for this rugged SUV of the water.

34′ LOA, 10′ beam

airshipribs.com

Hyfoil Foiling RIB 28

The HYFOIL Foiling RIB 28 evolved from more than 25 years of hydrofoil system development by the original designers of Hydrofoil Supported Catamarans (HYSUCAT) in South Africa. The fixed foils are flush with the hulls and automatically produce a “floating” ride over rough seas while nearly doubling efficiency.

Operational benefits include high-speed stability, a dry ride, small wake, shallow-water operability, reduced fuel consumption, and low maintenance. The spacious deck area fits a large console and can accommodate a variety of layouts for up to 14 passengers. With a fuel capacity of 70 gallons and standard power of a single 250-hp or twin 115-hp engines, the HYFOIL Foiling Rib 28 runs past 50 mph with a range of more than 250 miles. She’s towable and launches easily from a trailer. She is now available with a carbon fiber hull and foils as well as UV-resistant polyurethane six-chamber tubes.

27’8″ LOA, 9’5″ beam

foilingribs.com

Argos Nautic 305 Yachting

Argos Nautic’s 305 Yachting delivers pulse-quickening performance in a comfortable 10-foot package of these tenders and RIBs. The RIB’s advanced hull helps her carve effortlessly through turns yet provides a dry ride. Powered by a 40-hp outboard, she reaches plane in three seconds and has a top speed of 31 knots. The 305 Yachting is ideal for cruising couples and families on mid-sized yachts, sailboats and sportfishing boats. Compact and lightweight, she fits into most garages and hoists easily onto davits or deck. She has space for four adults, and passengers have generous leg and elbow room. The clever design means there is ample storage on the boat.

10′ LOA, 7’3″ beam

argosnautic.com

Avon Seasport 400 Deluxe

The new Seasport 400 Deluxe is one of eight boats in the Seasport series that is the evolution of the proven Zodiac Yachtline Deluxe. The 400 Deluxe and her sister ships range from the 320 to the new 490.

They offer improved styling and added comfort, the crowning touches to an already successful deluxe tender line. The Seasport 400 Deluxe benefits from the aid of Zodiac-Nautic’s “slide on, slide off” tube system. This allows the Seasport Deluxe line to be available in three different shades of tube sets, with a choice of grey, blue or camel accent tubes. The Seasport 400 Deluxe’s standard features include bilge pump, navigation lights, lifting points, color matched upholstery, courtesy lighting, internal fuel reservoir, glove box, and 12-volt receptacle. The Seasport 400 Deluxe is powered by a 50-hp outboard for a top speed of 35 mph and a cruising range of more than 100 miles.

400 Deluxe: 13’1″ LOA, 5’10” beam
320: 11’2″ LOA
490: 16’11” LOA

avonmarine.com

Caribe Nautica DL11

The Caribe Nautica DL11 11’1″ LOA, 5’7″ beam is one of more than 35 models built in 13 different sizes by this manufacturer that’s been in business since 1983. The DL11’s construction places a premium owner usability, with a fuel tank located in the bow compartment allowing for easy access for maintenance and fuel service. The DL11 also has a built-in water tank that feeds a handheld shower attachment for rinsing off after a swim or a dive, and the boat is also equipped with a swim ladder. Other standard features include a bilge pump and an icebox for storing drinks, food or the day’s catch. The DL11 carries a maximum of five passengers including the driver and is powered by a 40-hp motor equipped with a 20-inch shaft.

11’1″ LOA, 5’7″

caribenautica.com

Highfield CLDL360

Highfield Boats launched the new CLDL360 at the Miami International Boat Show in February. Designed as a yacht tender, the CLDL360 features a lightweight yet durable, powder-coated aluminum hull construction and a smooth, dry ride. She also features a host of new luxuries that include a larger, more comfortable bow seat, integrated side seat with storage and cup holders, wide bow step, and motor well with swim step. The CLDL360 also showcases newly refined styling such as the brushed-foam, teak finish deck.

Also new are the 7.5-gallon bow fuel tank and 40-hp engine for a top speed of 34 mph. Standard features include rugged Orca by Pennel & Flipo Hypalon tube fabric, self-draining deck, lifting points, and towing eyes, tow bridle points, Highfield dry bag, foot pump, oars, and repair kit.

11’10” LOA, 5’8″ beam

highfieldboats.com

Mercury 320 Aluminium

The Mercury 320 Aluminum hull is a durable new inflatable option that is available in a 320 and 270 model. This boat features a safety-aimed non-slip flat floor and 5052 marine-grade, powder-coated aluminum hull. Powered by a Mercury 20-hp FourStroke outboard engine, the 320 will hit speeds between 15 and 20 mph.

Unlike other Mercury rigid hull inflatable boats in this size range, both models with the aluminum hulls are equipped with a front-storage locker as well as two aluminum seats. For extra durability, each has a protective keel guard for beaching. The aluminum hull also includes four well-positioned lifting strakes for use with inflatable davit systems. Standard accessories include a storage bag, patch kit, dual-action hand pump, and oars.

Mercury 320: 320 10’6″ LOA, 5’1″ beam
Mercury 370: 8’10” LOA, 5’1″ beam

mercurymarine.com

Technohull Omega 45

The Technohull Omega 45 is a performance-minded RIB that also delivers a lot of luxury for her driver and 11 passengers. The Omega 45’s patented hull technology was created using state-of-the-art computer programs and hull structure algorithms. Every boat is designed from scratch and is based on a different hull design to best fit the length and characteristics required by her owner.

Cutting-edge technology is used in every stage of construction, including
CNC prototyping, ceramic-coated molds, and foam-cored layers. The focus of the Omega 45 design is the modern center console, sheltered by a T-top that
protects the four wraparound shockproof seats. Owners can choose engine configurations that include triple 300-, 350- and 400-hp options. The shipyard even offers speed enthusiasts the radical choice of adding quad Mercury Racing 400-hp outboards for a top speed of more than 90 mph.

45’3″ LOA, 11’6″

technohull.com

Ribcraft 5.85

RIBCRAFT, a manufacturer of professional-grade RIBs for military agencies, safety professionals and recreational boaters, offers a cutting-edge RIB with its newly redesigned RIBCRAFT 5.85. Built in the U.S. and personalized to the customer’s specifications, the RIBCRAFT 5.85 is quick to plane and sure-footed through tight turns and in rough seas. In
addition, the 5.85 has an aggressive deep-V hull, high-swept bow and full-length lifting stakes that deliver superior handling.

Standard power is a 115-hp engine with a maximum horsepower of 135. This redesigned layout includes comfortable bow seating, an antenna arch with integrated swim ladder, optional T-top, and teak decks. The 5.85 is an all-purpose 19-foot runabout that has a maximum capacity of 10 passengers so your friends can tag along.

19’4″ LOA, 8′ beam

ribcraftusa.com

Sealegs Electric E4

Sealegs, the manufacturer of amphibious craft, has gone green with the unveiling of Sealegs Electric E4, which uses the latest lithium battery and brushless electric hub motor technology.

Powerful, high-torque electric motors drive the Sealegs Electric E4 out of the water, up beaches and through difficult terrain. The high-density, 7kWh lithium battery delivers up to 20 launch-and-retrieve journeys on land between charges.

The flush-mounted console dash incorporates buttons conveniently located within the steering wheel to control the deployment of the amphibious wheels. A high-contrast, 24-inch touchscreen with Sealegs AmpTracs provides operator info, and an innovative seating layout for eight with a picnic/workstation table and a daybed sun-lounger is at the bow. The Sealegs Electric E4 runs 40 knots in the water and 6 mph on land.

23’11” LOA, 8’10” beam

sealegs.com

Walker Bay Venture 14

New from Walker Bay, the Venture 14 is packed with features and options for exploring, fishing, diving, and entertaining. The stand-up center console with a comfortable, sturdy bolster gives the driver three driving positions for the ultimate in safety and performance while underway. The console dash will accommodate an extra-large, nine-inch chartplotter, a variety of gauges, stereo head, and VHF radio. The V14 has boarding steps aft, port, and starboard, and in the bow to make embarking and debarking a snap.

Rated for eight passengers, the RIB has with four different seating and reclining configurations. A modified V-hull gives the Venture 14 a smooth, dry ride.

Powered by a 70-hp outboard engine, she runs to an estimated 40 mph at top speed and has a range of 150 miles utilizing the 17-gallon fuel tank. Additional features and options include four flush-mount rod holders that double as a board rack, a flush-mount ski pole, ladder, and shower.

14′ LOA, 6’5″ beam

walkerbay.com

Williams Sportjet 435

Williams Jet Tenders’ new Sportjet 435 hits the water with fast acceleration, excellent stability, and exceptional handling. With a top speed of 52 mph when powered by a 150-hp engine, the Sportjet 435 combines power with exhilaration and delivers high performance and speed at the flick of a throttle. Two engine options are available: The Rotax Ace 903 or Rotax ACE 1503. Use the Sportjet 435 for everything from watersports to shoreline transport for a luxury yacht. The spacious layout can comfortably seat up to seven passengers. As with all Williams tenders, owners can customize the Sportjet 435 to match their needs, whether for simple cruising, diving or fishing.

14’3″ LOA, 6’4″ beam

williamsjettenders.com

ZAR 85 SL

The ZAR 85 SL combines dayboat amenities with RIB performance and utility. Passengers benefit from the versatile seating layout. The ZAR 85 SL’s lounging and living areas contain much-appreciated features, such as two refrigerated drawers, a gas grill, a U-shaped dinette, and a small cabin for two people with a head and sink. The boat also offers an electric windlass to make anchoring much easier.

Off the stern, the large swim platform features an integrated swim ladder. The ZAR 85 SL has room for up to 14 people, so she’s ready for entertaining. Performance-wise, rig the RIB with single or twin engines with a max of 500 horsepower. Equipped with max power, the ZAR 85 SL runs more than 55 knots with a range of more than 200 nautical miles at 36 knots.

28′ LOA, 10’8″ beam

zar-formenti.net

The highly functional 12-foot RIB will always be popular in the Tenders and RIBs market. But, builders have expanded the idea further to make a RIB that also goes on dryland and water.

While a boat with wheels may not be what you’re looking for, today’s top Tenders and RIBs offer a surprise or two.

By Doug Thompson, Southern Boating May 2019

Monterey 385SE

Monterey developed a keeper in the outboard cruiser market with their Monterey 385SE (Super Express). The cockpit has plenty of space for entertaining and relaxing with wraparound, L-shape lounge seating (the transom seat can adjust into a sun lounger) and a fold-out seat in the starboard coaming.

A SureShade canopy is available that extends and stows electrically over the cockpit. A cupboard counter behind the helm seat has room for an optional grill, and a sink is set in the starboard passenger console with a refrigerator below. Under the passenger seat is a slide-out compartment for a cooler. The helm is well equipped and the split seat, each with a flip-up bolster, electrically adjusts fore and aft for legroom. A comfortable, double-wide berth and flat-panel TV is below deck on the starboard side, and a full head with shower is on the port side.

37’ LOA, 11’ beam

montereyboats.com

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Gulfstream Yachts 34

The Gulfstream Yachts 34 offers creature comforts seldom found in a boat this size.

Those comforts include a large bed located inside the air-conditioned lower cabin. The headquarters for Gulfstream Yachts 34 are located in Tampa, Florida. They specialize in constructing semi-custom and fully custom, foam-filled, unsinkable boats.

The Gulfstream Yachts 34 features a comfortable sun couch forward of the center console. It’s designed so that when occupied, guests don’t obstruct the captain’s view. An advanced hull design features a delta pad running surface aft. Additionally, there’s a stepped transom bracket for better planing out of the hole and reduced drag.

Powered with twin or triple motors, when equipped with twin Seven Marine 627-hp outboards, the 34 runs more than 75 mph and cruises up to 450 miles at 40 mph.

34′ LOA, 9’11” beam

gulfstreamyachts.com

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Nor-Tech 340 Club Sport

The Nor-Tech 340 Club Sport is modeled after the current 340 Sport Center Console. This model offers a new T-top design that is more open with increased visibility. The full-beam aft bench seat adds to seating capacity, as do the forward bow seating, console lounger.

There is also more than six feet of headroom inside the cabin. Elements that are included in the Club Sport’s design that’s focused to maximize user ability and comfort are preferred attributes of Nor-Tech customers.

The helm features dual Garmin 7616 multifunction displays, Mercury Zero Effort Controls and Mercury Vessel View. More standard features include the JL Audio sound system, custom-engineered specifically for Nor-Tech, that is paired with integrated Lumishore underwater LED lights for entertainment. Powered by triple Mercury Racing 400-hp engines, the new Club Sport hits a top speed of 90 mph with a 70-mph cruising speed.

34′ LOA, 10′ beam

nor-techboats.com

Return to the Center Console Roundup.

Blackwater 39 SF

The Blackwater 39 Sportfish will make any angler happy.

Each Blackwater 39 SportFish is custom-built and tailored to each owner. The boat combines the proven performance of a step-bottom hull with the dry-riding flair of a large sportfishing boat.

She boasts features that will satisfy the most demanding angler. Additionally, the Blackwater 39 is appointed with luxury options to make anyone’s day on the water comfortable. Quad 350-hp Mercury outboards power the hull to the mid-70-mph range and back down to 45 mph for better fuel economy.

The wide beam offers more interior space compared to other 39-footers, and cockpit design features include wraparound bow seating, a forward sun lounge with a full cabin and berth below and second-row seating as well as standard or oversized T-tops, a tuna tower, and two or three livewells as options.

39’11” LOA, 11’11” beam

blackwaterboats.com

Return to the Center Console Roundup.

Boston Whaler 380 Outrage

New for 2018, Boston Whaler’s 380 Outrage is designed to confidently navigate anything from offshore fishing runs to boating rendezvous.

Triple Mercury Verado engines provide reliable power and efficient performance on the Boston Whaler 380 Outrage. Additionally, the optional joystick makes piloting and docking maneuvers a breeze.

Additional desirable options include the Whaler Watch package that monitors the boat’s systems as well as its position for added security, a Seakeeper stabilizer system and a Summer Kitchen that adds an electric grill and electrically deployed sunshade in the aft cockpit.

Anglers will appreciate the 60-gallon transom livewell, well-equipped leaning post and an integrated hardtop with rod holders. An upper station on the hardtop is also available on the Boston Whaler 380 Outrage. Ample storage for gear and the air-conditioned cabin with convertible settee add to a powerful yet simple elegance.

38′ LOA, 11’8″ beam

bostonwhaler.com

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Scout 235 XSF

Built upon Scout’s NuV3 hull design, the Scout 235 XSF offers a standard powder-coated T-top hardtop with LED spreader lights fore and aft and a fully integrated windshield.

The 235 XSF’s recommended 250 hp can bump up to a max 300 hp to hit a top speed in the mid-50-mph range with a cruising speed in the low 30-mph range. The cruising range at 31 mph is 348 miles using the 100-gallon fuel tank.

A notable feature: Scout did away with the splash well at the transom by extending the outboard shaft that allows for a level platform across the entire swim deck.

Options include power-assist hydraulic steering, two LED underwater lights, 15-foot outriggers, rocket launchers, Edson steering wheel, self-contained porcelain head or Porta-Potti, and a removable teak bow table that makes the 235 XSF both fishing and family friendly.

23’8″ LOA, 8’6″ beam

scoutboats.com

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Hinckley Sport Boat

The Hinckley Sport Boat 40c is designed for agile handling, performance at sea and ease of use.

Hinckley puts its 90 years of boatbuilding experience to work in the performance market The Hinckley Sport Boat 40c is built of infused epoxy with an integrated primary bond between hull and stringers. This means a stiffer, stronger and more durable hull. Because it’s lightweight, the boat can easily and efficiently reach speeds of 63 mph. If powered by twin Seven Marine 627-hp outboard engines, that is.

Guests will enjoy a retractable sun shade covering a stern area defined by a leaning post amenity. There is also an optional icemaker and electric grill. A full-size companionway door leads down to the center cabin where the portside galley includes a refrigerator, cappuccino machine, cooktop, and microwave. To starboard is a full head with a pressurized freshwater shower.

Moving forward over the teak and holly laminate flooring is a U-shaped settee with seating for three that converts into a queen berth. An optional Seakeeper 3 stabilizer eliminates roll on the Hinckley Sport Boat 40c. Boarding is easy with a hull-side door.

42’7″ LOA, 12’5″ beam (with outboards)

hinckleyyachts.com

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Return to the Center Console Roundupasy with a hull-side door. hinckleyyachts.com

SeaVee 290B

The new SeaVee 290B is an easy-to-trailer offshore center console featuring SeaVee’s prismatic hull.

The 2SeaVee 290B features an aggressive 25-degree deadrise and keel pad for superior sea handling capabilities. This design makes for smooth, stable drifts, impressive hole shots and a more comfortable ride in rough sea conditions.

To achieve the highest performance possible, the new 290B is constructed using a vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding technology that infuses the fully-cored hull, stringers and bulkheads simultaneously. The result is a stronger, lighter and more durable laminate.

The boat is available in two configurations: Open Fisherman and Luxury Edition. Customizing the 290B is easy with an extensive list of standard features and options. Features include livewells and fishboxes, and the latest marine electronics and power ranging from twin 250-hp to 400-hp outboards. With the twin 350-hp option, the SeaVee 290B can run to a top speed of 70 mph and cruise at 38 mph with a range of 475 miles.

29’6″ LOA, 9′ beam

seaveeboats.com