New Zealand's deep connection to the sea is reflected in its long-standing maritime culture, and one of the most notable innovations to emerge from this culture is the Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB). These versatile, high-performance boats have become an integral part of New Zealand's marine landscape, widely used in everything from search and rescue operations to recreational boating and tourism. Carla Dukeson delves into the history, advantages, types, and modern role of RIBs in both New Zealand and Australia.
HISTORY OF RIBS
Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs) originated in the UK in the late 1960s and were initially designed for military and rescue purposes, combining the strength and stability of a hard hull with the safety of inflatable tubes. The first Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB) in New Zealand is credited to Chris Marks, who founded Lancer Industries in 1971. Drawing inspiration from European designs, Lancer introduced the RIB concept to New Zealand, pioneering construction techniques and materials. By 1989, Lancer became the first company outside Europe to receive SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) certification for manufacturing rescue boats. That same year, they built the world’s largest RIB at 17 meters, a record since surpassed with even larger vessels. By the 1980s, RIBs gained popularity in New Zealand for their performance in rough coastal waters.
In 1976, Steve Schmidt introduced the RHIB (Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat) concept to New Zealand under the brand Naiad. Initially slow to gain traction, Naiad RIBs eventually became popular among police, rescue teams, marine farmers, and government agencies due to their durability and versatility. One of the other early Kiwi brands was Southern Pacific Inflatables, founded in 1988 by Neil and Kathy Curtling. The company has since become one of New Zealand’s leading manufacturers of inflatable boats, now owned by international yachtsmen Richard Macalister and Dean Barker.
The local NZ marine industry, producing its own versions of robust RIBS, soon became well known globally for highquality, innovative designs tailored to tough Kiwi conditions. RIBs became essential for New Zealand’s Coastguard, police, defence forces, and search and rescue teams due to their speed, durability, and ability to handle remote, hazardous environments. In the 2000s, they became a top choice for tourism and recreation, particularly in regions such as Fiordland and the Bay of Islands, offering safe and exciting ways to explore the coastline. Today, RIBs are a key part of New Zealand’s maritime identity, used across recreational, commercial, and emergency sectors. Local manufacturers continue to lead in design and innovation, pioneering features such as foam-filled tubes and step hulls, making New Zealand a major exporter and a global leader in RIB technology.
THE ADVANTAGES OF RIBS
RIBs are highly valued for their combination of stability, durability, speed, and versatility. Below are some key advantages that have contributed to their widespread use:
• Stability: The rigid hull and inflatable tubes provide excellent stability in rough waters, making them safe in conditions such as high waves and strong winds.
• Durability: Built with tough, puncture-resistant materials, RIBs are resistant to wear and UV damage, making them ideal for rough and demanding environments.
• Lightweight and Fast: RIBs are easy to transport and launch, and their lightweight construction enables them to reach high speeds, making them ideal for both rescue missions and recreational activities.
• Shallow Draft: Their shallow draft allows RIBs to operate in shallow waters, making them perfect for coastal exploration and fishing.
• Versatility: RIBs are used in a wide range of applications, including recreational boating, rescue operations, military use, fishing, and tourism. They can also be customised for specific tasks, making them adaptable to various needs.
• Safety: With inflatable tubes that provide buoyancy even when the hull is damaged, RIBs are incredibly safe. Many are also self-righting, a feature that is crucial in rescue operations.
• Fuel Efficiency: The streamlined, lightweight design of RIBs reduces drag, making them more fuel-efficient compared to larger, heavier vessels.
• Easy to clean and maintain: They have smooth surfaces, simple designs, lightweight material, and are quick drying.
DIFFERENT TYPES OF RIBS FOR EVERY PURPOSE
RIBs come in a variety of designs, each suited for specific applications. Some of the most common types include:
Hard Bottom RIBs: Used in commercial, military, and highperformance recreational applications due to their enhanced durability and speed.
• Towed RIBs: Small, towable RIBs used for watersports, rescue operations, or as tenders.
• Commercial/Utility RIBs: Larger RIBs designed for heavy-duty tasks, such as fishing, Coastguard rescue, and patrolling.
• Performance RIBs: Designed for speed and agility, often used for high-speed boating, racing, support vessels for yacht racing and rescue operations.
• Touring RIBs: Built for comfort, often used in tourism for sightseeing, whale watching, and other coastal excursions.
• Military and Patrol RIBs: Reinforced for quick response times and high-speed manoeuvres, used by navies, special forces, and coast guard units.
• Tender RIBs: Small, lightweight boats used to transport passengers between larger vessels and shore, these have become a very popular option for super yachts worldwide.
• Amphibious RIBs: Adding the amphibious option makes these already versatile craft even more of an all-rounder.”
Whether it’s for high-speed rescues, leisurely sightseeing, or fishing/diving trips, RIBS offer unparalleled safety, stability, and versatility, ensuring their place as a timeless favourite in New Zealand’s waters and beyond.
We take a closer look at 5M+ RIB options and what’s available in NZ and Australia in 2025.
AB INFLATABLES
AB Inflatables is a respected rigid inflatable boat manufacturer that manufactures and distributes fibreglass or aluminium hull boats, tenders, and dinghies worldwide. On the aluminium boats with a console, there are eleven models. Particularly of interest is the new 18 ALX, within the Alumina range, featuring an aluminium hull with a fibreglass centre console. The boat features a 120-litre built-in fuel tank plus a twelve-person capacity. Power is from 90 to 115hp
AMF
Brian Collings, a veteran with over 40 years of experience in the marine industry, founded Rivercity Marine in 1981 and initiated the production of AMF Pro Sport boats in 1995 from Tauranga to Wanganui. Brian began his boating life diving out of inflatable boats, so developed an early passion for RIB boats, owning a Canadian rescue RIB fitted with self-righting and was used for recreational fishing and diving, and rescue work off the coast of Wanganui for a number of years. This formed a passion for building RIB rescue boats working alongside rescue crews throughout New Zealand, Australia and the UAE to provide some of the most highly advanced rescue craft available in the world. In a strategic move to expand the brand, he acquired AMF Boat Company in total in 2007. Together with Paul Sharratt, Brian has played a pivotal role in the advancement of AMF, resulting in nearly 400 vessels currently operational in the offshore marine environment. Jodi Collings, who has worked alongside her father Paul since 1984, and now works alongside husband Brian, has been deeply involved in boat construction. Over the past 15-20 years, she transitioned to oversee administration and sales as the business expanded. The Quick Response AMF Boat Models vary in sizes from 5.8M to 11.7M, while AMF can also provide custom built super yacht tender ribs, meticulously designed for specific spatial constraints on a superyacht’s hull. Utilising 5083 European Aluminium and employing heavy-duty construction techniques alongside long-term build methods, each vessel is designed for exceptional durability and longevity. Furthermore, the RIB’s tubes are constructed from military-grade heavy-duty Hypalon material, ensuring that every vessel meets the highest standards of performance and resilience in the marine environment, further reinforcing AMF’s commitment to quality and excellence in the marine sector.
BRIG
Family Boats, exclusive NZ dealer of BRIG RIBs, offers one of the most popular inflatable boat brands worldwide. Hand-built at BRIG’s European headquarters using the finest materials, these RIBs are crafted by a team of expert designers and engineers who push the boundaries of boat design with advanced aero and hydrodynamic theories. These fast-paced touring RIBs are perfect for high-performance adventures or relaxed family days on the water, with models ranging from 3.5m tenders to 10m vessels. BRIG also offers the stylish Navigator series, which starts at 4.85m and extends to nearly 8m. Designed for versatility, these boats are ideal as day-cruisers, with the Navigator 26 particularly favoured by anglers, thanks to optional features like an aerated bay tank, rod holders, and moulded tube pads. The Navigator’s wide beam, square bow, and extra-wide tubes provide excellent stability, safety, and comfort.
CATALYST
The Catalyst design, born from the legacy of Emirates Team New Zealand’s America’s Cup team, traces its roots to the internationally acclaimed designers Morelli and Melvin. Known for its blistering speeds of up to 60 knots, Catalyst is all about performance. These high-performance catamarans are powerful, lightweight, and exceptional in ride and handling. Made from strong, lightweight epoxy composite laminates with carbon reinforcement, they are highly customisable. Each Catalyst is tailored to meet its client’s specific needs. The platform has become the preferred chase boat for America’s Cup teams, as well as a luxury resort tender, island-hopping adventure vessel, superyacht support boat, and family weekender. With 25 built to date, no two are alike, offering options like 4 x 600 hp Mercury V12 outboards, inboards, water jet propulsion, fold-down cockpit tops, bow beach landing/swim stairs, and foil-assist—limited only by your imagination.
BUCCANEER
Buccaneer, well-known and recognised for producing high-quality fibreglass trailer boats, has two Enforcer models in its line-up, the 550 and the 630. Buyers can choose between Hypalon or PVC material, with the PVC option fully welded, glue is only used at the 75mm hull flange connection. About two-thirds of the tube sits outside the chine, optimising both internal and external beam width. It took some months of testing and development before Buccaneer’s Gerry Gerrand was happy to put the first Buccaneer RIB into the market, and interestingly, by then, he already had clients wanting to buy the new product. The Buccaneer 630 Enforcer is based on the proven Buccaneer 605 hull (with the Enforcer 550 based on the Buccaneer 550 hull), but from the chines up, it is all different. The helm console accommodates two people behind a sturdy Perspex windscreen. Twin seats are mounted on a moulded storage unit with a generous rear hatch, ideal for storing fenders or fishing gear. Proudly designed in New Zealand, the Buccaneer Enforcer is built for versatility, perfect for use whether you’re fishing, diving, wakeboarding, or as a tender.Â
FI-GLASS BOATS
Christchurch-based Fi Glass Boats has adapted its famous Fi-Glass Dominator hull for the Invincible 5.6, the company’s entry into the RIB market. With more than 3,000 Dominators produced, this hull design boasts a strong track record. The layout is fairly conventional, featuring a spacious centre console and multiple seating configurations. A sturdy stainlesssteel frame supports the bimini and serves as a secure handhold. Generous storage is provided throughout, and the Invincible 5.6 can be powered by outboards ranging from 50hp to 90hp. The first model was built in 2018 as a service and support vessel for the new Lyttelton Marina, followed shortly by a leisure-oriented version unveiled at the Hutchwilco NZ Boat Show.Â
GEMINI
There are six models in the 5M+ Waverider lineup. The 550 being an ideal sports RIB or a tender to a larger yacht. There are a variety of seating and console options, such as a lean bar and a rear seat with armrests and a polished stainless steel A-frame. Orca Impression fabric makes a stylish boat with a sporty appearance. The Waverider was designed to withstand the harshest of weather conditions. The mid-sized models in the Gemini range of RIBS are used commercially and for rescue & military operations internationally. The Legendary WR 550 is the most in-use Rescue RIB along the African coast. The majority of the National Sea Rescue Institute’s fleet is made up of WR 550s.
NORTHSTAR
Northstar RIBs are a premium range of rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) that combine high performance with luxury styling, and they’re rapidly gaining popularity in New Zealand. Built in Turkey, these vessels are renowned for their sleek design, innovative hull technology, and excellent seakeeping abilities. The lineup includes seven models starting from 5 metres, each tailored to different boating needs. Highlights include the Axis 5.3, a compact and ergonomic yacht tender and the Orion 6, a sporty cruiser ideal for longer voyages. In New Zealand, Northstar RIBs are available through Family Boats in Auckland, who stock a wide selection of models and offer customisation options to suit individual preferences.
GRAND BOATS
Specialising in high-end fibreglass rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) and tenders, Grand Inflatable Boats is a Ukrainian brand with over two decades of experience. Established in 2001 by a team of passionate engineers and sailing enthusiasts, all of Grand’s watercraft are designed, developed, and built in Ukraine. The brand expanded to Australia in July last year, setting up its head office and showroom on the Gold Coast. Since launching locally, Grand has partnered with Yamaha as their preferred outboard motor supplier, along with leading marine electronics brands Garmin and Scanstrut. Their expansion comes at a time of growing demand for RIBs in Australia—a market well-suited to Grand’s philosophy of designing rigid inflatable boats differently. With a diverse model range, Grand caters to everyone from casual recreational boaters to performance-focused users, including wakeboarders, fishers, and yacht owners seeking premium tenders. Sizes range from 3 to 9.5 metres, ensuring a model to suit almost any boating need. The Golden Line Cruisers—sized from 5.0 to 8.5 metres—serve as Grand’s premium cruiser and family RIBs. For sportier applications, Grand’s Drive Line Boats deliver enhanced performance with deeper V-hulls and raised tubes, making them ideal for fishing, wakeboarding, and diving. These models are available in 6 and 9.5 metres. With a strong focus on innovation, quality, and comfort, Grand Inflatable Boats continues to make waves in the Australian market, offering a fresh take on rigid inflatable boat design.
JP CRAFTS
JP Crafts produces a range of RIB vessels, built by a skilled local team with extensive international experience. Recreationally, the Code 9.8 represents the culmination of their work — their most stylish ride yet. Designed for strong performance and a smooth, efficient ride, these boats are manufactured in New Zealand with a focus on flexibility and customisation. Each craft is hand-built to suit individual requirements, with options catering to a variety of uses. JP Crafts has also explored new technologies and alternative approaches to both design and construction. Since 2016, the company has produced custom tenders for clients seeking more tailored solutions, and its Custom division enables fully bespoke builds.
HIGHFIELD
With over 54,000 boats delivered globally since the brand’s beginning in 2011, Highfield Boats is the world’s leading brand in the RIB tender sector and a global player in the 5 metres + sector. Highfield Boats has a variety of ranges from tenders right through the Patrol and Sport models, and the new crossover ADV7. The Patrol range of commercial-quality RIBs is designed to work excellently as a longdistance fishing and spear-fishing cruiser or a hardcore work boat. With their super deep V, wide chines, and large diameter tubes, they offer high maneuverability, high safety, and a soft, dry ride even in the roughest conditions. The range offers something for almost every requirement, from Sailing club support to Police and Rescue applications. With MCA rating & commercial coding available, the Patrol range is perfect for commercial chartering or working offshore too. The Sport line offers eleven RIB models from 3 metres to 9 metres. High-end luxury features combined with a durable, highperformance aluminium hull offers the best of both worlds.
KING WATERCRAFT
King Watercraft Ltd is a Christchurch-based, family-owned business established in 2014. The company specialises in the design and manufacture of rigid inflatable boats (RIBs), with a focus on producing craft tailored to the conditions and demands of New Zealand waters. The company maintains ongoing relationships with many of its customers and provides after-sales support and service as a core part of its operations. With over 15 years of experience in the marine sector, including boat and accessory design and fabrication, the company brings a solid base of technical expertise and industry knowledge. In response to growing customer demand, King Watercraft has also begun offering consulting services, including technical advice, valuations, brokerage, and project development support. One of the company’s recent initiatives is the H2Ocean project—a hydrogen-powered RIB developed in partnership with Fabrum, a New Zealand company specialising in zeroemission technologies. Designed as a zero-emissions alternative for commercial, tourism, and support applications, the vessel is equipped with a fuel cell system that powers electric stern drives via a battery bank. The boat, which carries 18kg of hydrogen at 350 bar, is configured to accommodate up to 12 passengers or be adapted for specialist operations such as coastguard work or event support. Sea trials for the H2Ocean are scheduled to begin in June 2025.Â
NAiAD
Naiad is a long-established name in the Rigid-Hulled Inflatable Boat (RHIB) sector, with over 45 years of experience producing vessels for both commercial and recreational use. Known for their performance in demanding conditions, Naiad boats are widely used by operators involved in rescue, law enforcement, and other mission-critical applications. Their designs prioritise crew safety and operational efficiency, with hull forms and seating arrangements that aim to reduce impact and maintain control at speed. Naiad’s commercial RHIBs are frequently chosen for their handling characteristics, stability, and ability to perform in challenging marine environments. Features such as shock-mitigating seating and advanced hull designs contribute to improved ride comfort and operator endurance over long periods. The recreational range from Naiad includes models from 4.3 to 15 metres (Expedition 15), offering a variety of layouts such as open boats, centre consoles, open cabins, and hardtops. These boats are built for versatility, whether used for coastal cruising, fishing, diving, or watersports. Their design balances performance and safety with practicality, providing options for users looking to access remote areas or enjoy day trips with family and friends. The collar system enhances buoyancy and stability, while its compact design allows for easier towing, launching, and storage compared to larger vessels.Â
RAYGLASS
Rayglass Protectors are premium rigid inflatable boats (RIBs), renowned for their durability, versatility, and exceptional performance in even the most challenging conditions. Designed and built in New Zealand, these vessels are trusted worldwide across commercial, recreational, and emergency response sectors. Rayglass offers a versatile lineup of Protector models to meet a wide range of needs. The Chase Series: Centreconsole RIBS designed for speed, agility, and open deck functionality – ranging from the compact 250 Chase (7.5m) to the powerful 410 Chase (12.5m). The Targa Series: Hardtop RIBs that provide added protection and comfort, ideal for extended offshore trips. These models, from the 310 Targa (9m) to the flagship 410 Targa (12.5m. Continuing its tradition of innovation, Rayglass launched the 410 Targa in 2022 – powered by twin Mercury Verado V12 600hp outboards—setting a new benchmark for power, comfort, and on-water performance. Each model is highly customisable, with options for various engine configurations, seating layouts, and onboard features. Available enhancements include luxury transom seating, built-in refrigeration, walkthrough cabins with bunks, and redesigned dashboards to support larger display systems. Rayglass Protectors have supported world-class events such as the America’s Cup and SailGP, as well as being chosen by Coastguards and Emergency Services for their reliability and performance.
TAKACAT PREDATOR
The Takacat Predator series is a line of rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) designed by Stingray Marine in South Africa specifically for Takacat New Zealand. These boats are built with a distinctive stepped-tunnel catamaran hull, which delivers excellent stability, a smooth ride, and efficient performance. This makes them wellsuited for a variety of uses, including fishing, diving, and commercial operations. Each Predator RIB features a solid fibreglass (GRP) hull paired with Hypalon tubes, offering durability and reliable performance in challenging conditions. The stepped-tunnel design creates an aircushion effect at lower speeds, allowing the boat to lift onto the plane quickly and efficiently. This hull configuration not only improves ride comfort in rough water but also enhances overall stability and manoeuvrability. The Predator series comprises six distinct models, each tailored to suit a range of specific applications. Featuring stable catamaran hulls and customisable layouts, these RIBs are well-suited for both recreational boating and professional use. In New Zealand, Takacat Predator boats are available directly through Takacat New Zealand.Â
ZODIAC
Zodiac Nautic, a renowned French manufacturer with over a century of expertise, has a strong presence in New Zealand through its authorised distributor, Lusty & Blundell Ltd. Known for their exceptional durability, stability, and versatility, Zodiac inflatables are a popular choice among New Zealand boaties. Lusty & Blundell Ltd, the sole authorised distributor in the country, offers a wide range of Zodiac products, from the compact Cadet series (Roll Up, Aero, Aluminium Floor, and Aluminium RIB Light) to larger models such as the Open, Pro, Medline, and Yachtline series. Zodiac boats are built with high-quality construction, featuring GRP hulls, UV-resistant Neoprene tubes, and the brand’s patented “thermo-bonding” manufacturing process, ensuring unmatched durability and virtually indestructible seams. With over 120 years of history, Zodiac Nautic is regarded as the gold standard in inflatable boats. The brand is internationally recognised for its outstanding loading capacity, stability, space-saving portability, and exceptional quality finishes.Â
SMUGGLER
The Strata Series includes several versatile models. The Strata 5m Range: A range of RIBs from 4.9 to 5.8m with 40 to 90hp outboards, with several console and seating options, the Strata 6m range: From 5.9m to 6.5m RIBs with 90-150 hp outboards and a 23° deep V hull for comfort and performance, the Strata 750 range: A 7.5m model (175- 300 hp) with a 27° deep V hull. Models in this range include the protective Mid-Cabin, ideal for fishing and diving, a Centre console for the dedicated divers and fishoes, plus the 780SS Bowrider for family and socialising fun. The Strata 820 Cabin is based on the same hull with a full cabin, and up to 300 hp for extended trips. Then, for the longerrange and overnighting customers, Smuggler builds a 9-11m range in both the centre console and full cabin models. The Strata 600/630/650 Inboard Tender is a luxury inboard tender (90-220 hp), built for superyachts. Smuggler RIBS are made with deep V fibreglass hulls and Hypalon, TPU or PVC tubes, offering strength and UV resistance. All boats come with a 5-year structural hull warranty
SOUTHERN PACIFIC – RIB18
Southern Pacific Inflatables is a New Zealand-based manufacturer of rigid inflatable boats. The company was established to meet the demand for durable, locally built inflatable boats suited to New Zealand’s diverse maritime environment. Operating from a modern facility in Kumeu, West Auckland, Southern Pacific uses advanced production techniques to ensure quality and precision. These include digitally patterned, machine-cut PVC tubes, thermally welded seams for added durability, and CNC-cut aluminium hulls for consistent accuracy. A variety of materials—such as Hypalon, PVC, and TPU—are used to meet the specific needs of recreational, commercial, and government users. Southern Pacific offers a range of RIBs over 5 metres designed for performance and versatility. The SeekR is a robust chase boat featuring Hypalon-covered “never-go-flat” D-tubes and a high-shear bow for improved durability and wave-handling. The PerformR, developed in collaboration with Rob Shaw Design, is a 6-metre model that delivers strong seakeeping and comfort – ideal for yacht club support. The Cormorant Series (550/600) includes versatile, all-round RIBs designed for Australasian waters, well-suited to recreational boating and family use.
AMPHIBIOUS RIBS
SMUGGLER (AMPHIBIOUS)
Smuggler Marine is widely recognised for its cutting-edge amphibious vessels, seamlessly blending rugged RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) construction with advanced technology from Anura. Their Strata Amphibious series delivers unmatched versatility, enabling smooth transitions from water to land, ideal for both recreational and commercial use. The line-up includes the Strata 620, 660, and 700 Amphibious models, as well as the Strata 800 Mid Cabin and Centre Console Amphibious and the newest addition, the Strata 800 Super Sport Amphibious, which was recently featured in the May/June issue of PowerBoat Magazine. Smuggler also build the large 9-11m amphibious RIB , for those discerning customers wanting even more versatility and range. These models are engineered with a range of high-performance features, including fibreglass hulls with a 23° deep-V design for superior stability and ride comfort, retractable wheels for seamless amphibious operation, hydraulic steering with electronic controls, dual bilge pumps, onboard fire extinguisher, LED navigation and floodlights, and customisable options for upholstery, electronics, and accessories.
ASSAULT PURSUIT 8
ANURA
Assault and Smuggler Amphibious craft are powered by the Anura System, a proven platform that has led the industry in amphibious innovation for over a decade. Anura has developed a modular suite of systems adaptable to everything from small tenders to large commercial and recreational craft, allowing craft manufacturers to integrate amphibious capabilities as a standard feature. Anura’s approach prioritises quality, durability, and reliability. Components exposed to saltwater are treated with advanced marinegrade coatings designed for long-lasting performance. This commitment is backed by a fully transferable 3-year warranty, giving owners added confidence in their investment. Recent advancements in Anura’s manufacturing include the use of carbon fibre 3D printing, enabling the production of highly sophisticated components that elevate the performance and precision of amphibious systems. These systems are designed for intuitive use and maintain a vessel’s original handling characteristics. For manufacturers, Anura’s modular systems offer unmatched flexibility across different hull materials and build methods. The systems are available in both Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) and Electric Over Hydraulic (EOH) formats. Their product line currently spans six models, from the compact S15 to the heavy-duty S45, covering a wide spectrum of recreational and commercial needs. Anura will further expand this range with the launch of the S75 system, slated for release in December 2025.”
SEALEGS
ealegs is a New Zealand-based manufacturer known for pioneering amphibious rigid inflatable boats (RIBs). Since its founding in 2004, the company has delivered over 1,850 vessels to customers in more than 55 countries, transforming the boating experience by enabling smooth transitions between land and water. Sealegs offers a versatile range of amphibious RIBs in the 5M+ category, designed to suit both recreational and commercial applications. The 6.1m Sport RIB – The most compact in the line-up, wellsuited for storage-limited environments or as a superyacht tender. The 7.1m Sport RIB, a balanced option for fishing and exploring, offering strong performance and manoeuvrability. The 7.5m Sport RIB, which is available with electric or hydraulic on land drive, a modern design that blends function and aesthetics, ideal for a wide range of activities. The 9m Hydrasol RIB, a larger platform perfect for adventure and extended use, with different layout options to suit the users’ requirements this craft is extremely versatile. And lastly the 12m Sport RIB – Sealegs’ flagship model, featuring the most advanced amphibious system, a fully enclosed cabin, and twin outboard engines for exceptional power. Sealegs International remains the originator of amphibious boating and continues as the world’s most popular brand by sales numbers alone. The Sealegs Amphibious Enablement System (AES) kits today provide amphibious capabilities for craft from 3.8m long through to their rangetopping 12.0-meter Cabin RIB. Today’s range of kits span from the System 70 petrol/hydraulic, System 70 Electric, System 80 petrol/hydraulic, and at the high end – the incredible System 100 diesel/hydraulic capable of supporting craft up to 10,000 kg in weight (operating environment dependant). The System 20E is used exclusively on the Sealegs 3.8m electric tender – the system providing up to 50 minutes of continuous on-land run time. The System 60 is designed for vessels with a maximum gross weight of up to 2500kg, the System 70 being designed for vessels with a maximum gross weight of up to 3500kg and is powered by either a Briggs & Stratton 35hp petrol engine or in electric form, by a 48-volt battery system. The System 80 supporting vessels with a maximum gross weight of up to 6500kg and at the high end the System100 is capable of handling up to 10,000 kg gross weight depending on operating conditions. Power to run this system is provided by a 97hp Kubota turbo-diesel engine. All systems come standard with switchable two wheel/all-wheel drive (AWD) built-in, power steering and automatic braking system (ABS). All Sealegs amphibious systems have a run time of at least 35 minutes within every hour, without overheating. Sealegs remains the largest manufacturer of amphibious systems, designing, manufacturing and assembling over 120 Sealegs craft per year at their facility in Wairau Valley on Auckland’s North Shore.
