Pacific RIB 2023

TRAILERABLE

5.5 RIB’S

HIGHFIELD EXPANDS WITH NEW DEALERSHIPS

Highfield Boats, a world leading manufacturer of aluminium hulled inflatable boats, has appointed Sydney boat retailer Marineco to represent their brand in Sydney south and southern New South Wales, and Northside Marine at Boondall in Brisbane.

Marineco, headed by Ben Pugh and Michael Blanch, have built Sydney’s leading inflatable boat dealership, and are ideally suited to represent the Highfield brand. “We’re delighted to partner with Ben and Michael as we’ve been very impressed with their world-class approach to their presentation, the representation of their brands and their outstanding commitment to customer service,” said Highfield Boats Australia’s Peter Pembroke.

OCEAN

CRAFT

MARINE - ALL NEW 9.8 M RIB

Eurocity Marine are thrilled to announce the delivery of their latest AMP - a 9.8 meter long Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB) fitted with the AAS-100 4WD Amphibious system.

This revolutionary system allows for easy transportation of the boat in and out of the water without the need for a trailer.

Designed for fishing enthusiasts, this RIB comes fully equipped with an underwater camera, fishing rod holders, live-well, tube set ladders, and a 36-liter fridge for storing food and refreshments. The boat is also equipped with a full sized grill for those who want to enjoy their catch at its freshest, right on the spot. A fresh water tank that can carry up to 100 litres allows for an easy wash down or shower while at sea.

The RIB is powered by two Mercury Racing 300hp engines and features

In Brisbane, Northside Marine has welcomed Highfield boats to its offering, an addition which General Manager, Bill Hull says “makes perfect sense. Highfield fits very well with our other brands, Jeanneau, Stabicraft, Surtees and Stacer. They are very different, being inflatables, and our first foray into RIBS. Highfield complements Jeanneau power boat, which are available in models up to 13-metres, so it’s great to be able to offer

RIB tenders in house,” he continued. At this year’s Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, Northside Marine displayed some of its brands on water and at the Highfield Boats stand. We really enjoyed representing the brand and seeing the responses to our new models including the Sport 660.”

HIGHFIELDBOATS.COM.AU

MARINECO.COM.AU

NSMARINE.COM.AU

Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering for effortless manoeuvring. The Mercury Marine Gen2 Joystick Piloting ensures precise control, while the Skyhook feature allows the boat to maintain its position via GPS without having to drop the anchor. For those who love to explore, this RIB is equipped with a search light controlled by remote, diver's notches on both port and starboard sides, and all the necessary communication and navigation systems for a safe journey.

Entertainment is not forgotten, as the RIB also comes with a sound system with AMP and speakers for music, as well as underwater lights to enhance the mood. To ensure boaties can stay out on the water for longer periods of time, the RIB also comes with on-board battery and charging systems, and a 118 USG aluminium fuel tank. EUROCITYMARINE.CO.NZ

THE MUCH ANTICIPATED SEALEGS 3.8 AMPHIBIOUS TENDER HAS ARRIVED

Sealegs International have again redefined the amphibious boating market with the release of their latest offering – the Sealegs 3.8-meter amphibious tender –Sealegs 3.8TE.

“The Sealegs 3.8TE will revolutionise the way our customers explore their favourite waters” said Nicholas Glanfield Global Sales and Marketing Manager.

With near silent on land running thanks to its patented electric in-hub motors, the 3.8TE represents the latest in versatility both on water and land. The 3.8TE’s innovative amphibious technology allows for seamless transitions from water to land,

the main craft to a secluded beach or simple back to the jetty.

With its cutting-edge design, luxury finish and near silent motors the 3.8TE has been designed to fit easily into the lazarette of larger luxury motor yachts. Featuring a fold down console for further space saving and plush seating for 5 adults the 3.8TE is sure to please. Powered by a 40HP Yamaha

Equipped with a number of cleaver features the 3.8TE makes for the ideal watercraft – from its spacious storage compartments, comfortable seating, and state-of-the-art navigation and safety systems, this tender has everything needed for all activities including effective taxiing to being used as a safe family tender.

SEALEGS.COM

Engel 40 Litre Combi

Fridge / Freezer

THRILLS

COME STANDARD

While the RIB market is saturated with centre consoles, the same cannot be said for cabin boats, or to be more precise hardtop cabin RIBs. There are a scant few and from what I have seen, it's the Kiwis who do it best.

One such company is Smuggler Marine that has built a considerable reputation with their Strata range of RIBs and amphibious craft.

From as small as 4.5m to over 11m, Auckland based Smuggler Marine has always been at the forefront of innovation and their Strata range is a perfect example. Owners of Smuggler Marine, David and Pauline Pringle are both perfectionists and every boat that comes out of their factory, no matter what the size has their stamp of approval. Every detail has been well considered, with layouts meticulously planned combined with quality materials and a striking appearance.

While all that sums up the Strata 820 Hardtop, I have to add how immensely versatile it is, with the ability to be a boat for all reasons. Okay, so it is used a lot, but in my opinion, the Strata 820 Hardtop is a true all-rounder. It's a boat you can fish, dive, tow water toys, overnight and day cruise and all that in an efficient layout. But while you could say that about a lot of boats, the one thing that makes the Strata 820 a pitch above the rest is the hull.

Based on the ultra-deep 27 deg vee Smuggler hull, there is no better blue water performer in this size range. While the first Smuggler hull dates back to the mid-1970s, it has undergone some tweaks since then to make it even better than the original. Plus by wrapping tubes around it, it has gone from being a great hull to an awesome hull.

Any boat with a very deep vee and a 2.5m beam on the chine is likely to be a little tender at rest and even when underway, are susceptible to weight movement. Not so with the Strata 820 because of the Hypalon

tubes that are glued above the hard chine. When the boat's at rest the last 1m or so of the tube sits on the water and now with a 2.9m beam with the tubes inflated, so comes extra stability. Moving 3-4 people from side to side makes very little difference to the heel of the boat.

Then, when underway the rear of a each pontoon tiptoes across the surface and again adds extra stability, without adding any drag. Another advantage is because the tubes extend so far past the chine they form a natural barrier for water running up off the hull and bow areas. The result is an amazingly dry boat.

While there is no question about the boat's rough water capability, test day was mirror smooth and ideal for shooting our video. I have previously tested this hull in a centre console version with the same engines and also other similar models based on the same hull with single engine packages. Never found a bad one amongst them.

The twin rig set up is in my opinion, however, the best, but then I like a bit of speed and the sound of those twin 150hp Yamaha V6s add a new dimension to the Strata 820. You feel you are in a big tough, nononsense boat that will go anywhere in any conditions and you will do it in relative comfort.

With the engines trimmed out so far that another gentle touch of the trim switch would have exposed them to huge cavitation, I got the Smuggler Strata 820 Hardtop to almost 60 mph (52 knots) in the calm water. It felt rock steady and effortless to drive, even with 300hp on the transom. Of course, that was only short lived and I soon had the boat back into a conservative cruise mode of around 3,500rpm @ 25

knots. Based on a full load of fuel, (400 litres), that gives the 820 twin rig a range of around 220/250 nm. At 4500 rpm @ 36 knots the range only decreases marginally. But if you keep the throttles down all the way from Auckland to Russell in the Bay of Islands, you may not quite have enough. At the other end, you will get close to 300nm at trolling speeds.

TWO TRANSOMS

The Strata 820 twin rig has most of the space between the tubes taken up with the engines, so access aboard is over the tubes or via a Dixon RIB ladder. Smuggler utilises different transom mouldings for the single or twin-engine package. With the twin setup, the transom has built-in storage lockers and stowage for the batteries, plus allows you to drop in some removable bin seats. In our boat, we had a trio of Icey Tek bins which make great places to stow bait and the catch and can be moved out of the way when you're fishing. With the single engine option, you get a couple of moulded rear jump seats and easy access both sides of the engine to the water. The imitation teak surface adds a quality finish around the transom. Central on both is a custom bait board with rod holders, mounted on a stainless post, that can be replaced quickly with a ski pole for towing the water toys.

Yes, you can certainly fish from a soft-sided RIB and quite successfully, it's just that you have to be a little

more cautious about jagging hooks, a tag pole or a gaff into the tubes. Other than that it's no different to fish from than any other boat of this size. Big bonus, as I have already mentioned is the at rest stability. Brilliant when your mate comes over to net that 12 kg Kingi.

SEATING CHOICE

When it comes to seating, you have plenty of options. We had the most popular choice, back to back King/ Queen to port and a single swivelling bucket seat for the skipper. The helm seat is mounted on a moulded box base that also houses the fridge. There is storage under the King/Queen, as well as under the cockpit sole.

In reference to its weekender mode, there is a two burner gas hob ahead of the passenger seat that comes with a cutting board lid. If you don't go for the cooker option, then this is just another big storage space. Opposite, the helm is split into two large flat facias with room below for a 16" MFD and that still leaves plenty of space for all the other necessary controls, switches, navigation and electronic add-ons. Seated or standing it's a great boat to drive and if you do get some spray or rain on the screen there's a wiper to take care of it. Storage shelves either side take care of some of the smaller items such as keys, cellphones and sunnies. Of course, being a RIB, there are no side trays in the cockpit, so if you have a brace of rods you need

They don’t get much deeper vee than this.

There is even a compact cooker provided.

Icey Tek bins multitask as bait and catch storage as well as seating.

The Strata 820 can be powered by single or twin outboards.

to stow, then you have the choice of mounting them across the transom or in an overhead rocket launcher.

Downstairs it's as I would have expected with twin berths plus an infill. Upper shelves and under the side squabs take care of a lot of the storage issues, with a plumbed in head under the forward squab. Solid cabin doors or a privacy curtain are optional. One thing I did like about the cabin is the depth of the foot recess, which also means when you enter and exit the cabin you don't have to duck excessively to miss the fibreglass deck. There is a deck hatch but you would probably never use it as all anchoring can be done from the helm. If you do need to go forward, there is limited access around the side of the hardtop.

SUMMARY

What can I say? I loved it! There are not many boats that really spark my interest, but this is one of them. As a RIB it does it all and it does it well. Ever since I first experienced the Smuggler hull way back in the mid-1970s, I have followed its path with interest and seen it morphed into quite a few different styles. However, one thing that has never changed is the iconic name and while the hull may have been given a few tweaks in recent years to make it even better and the topsides redesigned entirely, to me it will always be a Smuggler and long may it remain.

PERFORMANCE DATA : 2 X YAMAHA 150

SPECIFICATIONS

Model Smuggler Strata 820 Cabin HT

Priced from $199,000 Type Hardtop

Construction GRP/Hypalon LOA 7.50m Beam 2.80m

Deadrise 27 deg

Height on trailer 2.80m

Trailerable weight 2200 kg dry

Power 2 x Yamaha 150

Power option Outboard Single/ Twin 150-300hp

Fuel capacity 260 litres

Trailer DMW

Manufacturer Smuggler Marine, Ph +64 9 8389024

SMUGGLERMARINE.CO.NZ

BUILT FOR PURPOSE

A Buyer's Guide to 5.5m RIBs

A couple of years ago, we ran a feature on 5.5 RIBs, one of the most popular sizes on the market. However, over the years, the market has changed a lot, and while many of those brands are still around, some have gone, and some are new to the RIB market. One of the most noticeable deletions is Brig which produced more than 2500 boats annually. But production has been stopped since the conflict between Russia and Ukraine began. The factory is based in Kharkiv, a city largely affected by the war. Lancer, one of New Zealand's first-ever RIB builders, was sold a few years ago, and while some of the business was retained, the boat division was discontinued. A new entrant for 2023 is the South African built, Stingray. A company that offers a range of models for both recreational and commercial users. Almost every brand available in New Zealand provides a RIB of around 5.5m. Some are a little under, some a little over 5.5m, but they all come with a centre console layout, alloy or grp hull and are all outboard powered apart from one, Williams Jet. While generally, they are all constructed using a Hypalon-based material on the tubes, some are PVC and one brand, Tino, is solid foam buoyancy. The smallest model we have included in our selection is the King Watercraft K5000 at 5.20m, and the biggest is the 5.71m Williams Sport Jet 435. But what's 51cm between friends?

There is no substitute for space, and when it comes to centre consoles, it's also about usability and easy access to all areas of the boat. The foot space between the console and the tubes is often very narrow, and in some cases walking on the tubes is the only way forward. The console needs to be of a reasonable size to be able to mount an MFD or simple fishfinder, instruments, switches and, of course, the steering wheel. Most utilise the console for dry storage and something to fit the stainless steel tubed bimini tower. Some use the space for an extra fuel tank or battery stowage. If the screen is high enough, you also get some weather protection, but generally, centre console boats leave you open to the weather. It's just something you must accept in this style of boat, no matter the size.

Seating options are vast, from no seats to swivelling buckets sets, bin seats and rear bench seats. Extra storage areas are usually restricted to beneath the floor in bin lockers or under a forward seat. Most 5.5m RIBs provide seating for 4-5, plus there are always the tubes to take the overflow of bodies.

5.5 RIBs are light enough, so they don't need a lot of horsepower to make them perform well, and a single 90-115hp outboard is enough.

EXAMPLES OF SOME OF THE 5.5(ISH)

RIBS AVAILABLE TODAY.

AB 18 ALX

AB Inflatables is a respected rigid inflatable boat manufacturer with fibreglass or aluminium hull boats, tenders and dinghies worldwide. The 18 ALX is one of nine models in the AB Alumina range and features an aluminium hull with a fibreglass centre console. The boat features a 120-litre inbuilt fuel tank plus seating for four. Power is from 90-115hp. AB Inflatables is a respected rigid inflatable boat manufacturer with fibreglass or aluminium hull boats, tenders and dinghies worldwide. The 18 ALX is one of nine models in the AB Alumina range and features an aluminium hull with a fibreglass centre console. The boat features a 120-litre inbuilt fuel tank plus seating for four. Power is from 90-115hp.

EXPLORER GULF CRUISER 500

The Explorer 500 is part of the Gulf Cruiser 500 series with models from 5.1 - 5.8m. Right down to the sizeable onboard storage for all your diving and fishing gear, there's a place for everything and everyone on the Gulf Cruiser 500 series.

Made in New Zealand, the Gulf Cruiser 500 has seating for 4-5 and a surprising amount of practical storage. The 20 deg grp composite hull is surrounded by five chamber Hypalon Orca pontoons, and the boat comes standard with a 75-litre underfloor fuel tank. The hull is rated at 90hp.

Access is wide around the centre console, which includes plenty of dry storage. There's a separate seat forward and a large anchor locker.

BUCCANEER 550 ENFORCER

A relatively new player in the RIB market, Buccaneer offers two models, with the 550 Enforcer being the smaller. The tubes are supplied and fitted by Southern Pacific, and you can choose Hypalon or PVC. The PVC is all welded, and the only glue is where it joins the 75mm hull flange. Two-thirds of the tube is outside the chine, giving you the maximum internal and external beam advantage.

While the console is similar to the larger 640 Enforcer, it is narrower but still has space for two people to sit behind a solid Perspex screen. The twin seats are mounted on a moulded storage box with a large rear hatch — a great spot for fenders and your fishing tackle. The Buccaneer 550 Enforcer is a pure Kiwi RIB, designed to be as versatile as possible so that it doesn't matter if you are fishing, diving, wakeboarding or using it as a tender, the boat is ideally suited to any task.

FI GLASS INVINCIBLE 5.6

Another fibreglass trailer boat manufacturer to enter the RIB market, Christchurch-based Fi Glass Boats, has utilised the famous Fi-Glass Dominator hull as the basis of the Invincible 5.6. With over 3000 Dominators built, the hull has a proven track record. The layout is reasonably traditional, with a large centre console and various seating options. A solid stainless frame supports the bimini and doubles as a rigid handhold. There is ample storage throughout, and the Invincible 5.6 is optioned with outboards from 90hp-150hp. The first boat was built in 2018 for the new Lyttelton Marina as a service and support boat, with a more 'leisure' based version released at the Hutchwilco NZ Boat Show.

GEMINI WAVERIDER 550

The WR550 is one of 10 models in the Waverider lineup. It is an ideal sports RIB or a tender to a larger yacht.

The WR550 offers a variety of seating and console options, such as a lean bar and a rear seat with armrests and polished stainless steel A-frame. Orca Impression fabric makes a stylish boat with a sporty appearance. The rugged Waverider 550 was designed to withstand the harshest of weather conditions. These 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.

HIGHFIELD SPORT 560

The Highfield Sport line offers 17 RIB models from 3m to 9m, redefining the perfect RIB. High-end luxury features combined with a durable, highperformance aluminium hull give you the best of both worlds. The Sport 560 is an ideal boat for day use or to explore your next adventure.

KING WATERCRAFT K5000

The heavy-duty 24 deg deadrise hull, with a 115hp rating and built-in deck 28-gallon fuel tank, provides a smooth ride. The upright console with a tall tinted windscreen and grab rail accommodates a 9" chart plotter for navigation. There is a wide bow boarding step with roller and cleat for easy anchoring, and while at anchor, there is lots of room to hang out in the wide comfortable bow seating area. The bow area can be converted easily to a lounging sun deck, and in the stern, there is another seating area with a folding table and cup holders for lunch. There is an optional removable ski pole or towing arch for watersports and a huge, flat rear transom area with a telescopic boarding ladder. All surfaces have comfortable teak pattern EVA, so soft on the feet and won't get hot. There are four dry storage compartments, including an extra deep rear seat area and hydraulic pistons to hold up lids for easy stowing.

Over a year in the making and designed alongside a Naval Architect, The K5000 is classy and sophisticated. Every inch of this boat has been carefully considered with customers' desires (and requests) in mind. Highly specified with all the latest features and technology, its proven performance offers smooth riding, stable cornering and quick acceleration with a top speed of 43kts and 160Nm of cruising range. The K5000 features an electric folding T-Top, folding fairlead with drum winch, surround sound, 12" dash display and seating for eight. Features also include some design elements and styling that you would typically see in larger Ribs, such as the pull out rubbish bin, day bed and storage locker, a purpose built recess for your Yeti cooler and optional drinks table and removable bait board . Being a side console layout, access forward to extra seating is made easy. Suitable for 90-115hp outboards, the K5000 is 5.4m when you count the length of the PVC Hypalon five-chamber pontoons. The hull is fully powdercoated aluminium with U-Dek flooring throughout for protection and comfort under foot. This unique console RIB can be fitted out and customised to suit your adventure desires, with limitless possibilities. Bespoke fit-outs, from simply practical, to personalised luxury.

NAIAD 5.5 SPORTLINE

The 5.5 Sportline is one of three models in the Sportline range, including a 5.3m and a 5.8m version. All are 2.3m external beam with an internal beam of 1.4m and use a twin pontoon system of butyl rubber inners covered by extra heavy-duty PU/PVC outers. With Naiad's large diameter pontoons providing extra seating, the non-marking rub strip means that

coming alongside white boats is problem-free. Naiad's use an alloy hull for low maintenance, durability and robustness. A carefully designed stepped chine in the hull keeps the buoyant tubes off the beach when pulled clear of the tide and provides its best highspeed planing when lightly loaded. The Sportline is available in an open or centre console with custom layouts. Power is anything from 40-150hp.

Manufacturers of Infatable boats from 2.1m to 6.0m. Quality Repairs – Retubing – Custom Builds.

1487A State Highway 17, Dairy Flat, Auckland. Ph: 021 570 505 | e: info@seafarerinflatables.co.nz

www.seafarerinflatables.co.nz

SEAFARER SF 550R

Seafarers are 100% Kiwi-made inflatables by the experienced Neil Curtling, who has over 35 years of experience in Inflatable boat manufacture and design. The boats are built using German Valmax PVC & TPU fabrics, which are welded with Seafarer's unique dual lap seam welding system. A Thermo bond welding machine has been customised to suit their manufacturing systems to enable the most reliable high-quality welds and allow 100% Thermo bond welded tubes.

The SF550R is based on an aluminium hull with all the fastening holes pre-drilled before powder coating to eliminate corrosion. The layout can be fully customised with option seating and console arrangements.

SOUTHERN PACIFIC CORMORANT 550

Southern Pacific presents the latest all-around RIB combining a rugged new RIB with a lightweight aluminium hull, optimised for Australasian waters. The design by Dibley Marine group follows a brief from Kiwi Yachting for durability, weight reduction, and a dry and stable ride with stability at rest.

A New Zealand-designed and built craft, it is perfect for fishing, diving, waterskiing, or as a yacht tender. The 5-chamber tubes can be fabricated in either PVC, TPU or Hypalon fabrics, which feature a durable, textured exterior protecting areas of potential abrasion, with the added benefit of non-slip. The aluminium hull is Kiwi built, solid, light, and easily trailered on a single-axle trailer.

SMUGGLER STRATA 550

The Smuggler Strata 550 is a classy RIB designed for comfort and style. Its 23-degree deep vee hull makes the ride comfortable and safe in all conditions. There is a range of consoles, seating and other options to customise your boat to suit your needs. Whether you are into diving, fishing, towing the kids or chasing them out sailing, the Strata 550 is more than up to the task.

Standard features include a five-year hull warranty, a PVC or Hypalon tube option and a built-in 100-litre fuel tank. The Strata 550 can handle outboards from 80-115hp and provides ample seating options for 4-6 people.

TAKACAT PREDATOR T540P

The Takacat PredatorT540P is a patented stepped-tunnel design catamaran based on symmetrical bows mated to an asymmetrical tunnel. The tunnel creates an air-cushion effect at low speeds, enabling the craft to rise quickly out of the water and easily plane. The twin hull construction increases stability and creates a more comfortable ride in choppy conditions.

The Predator Hull Design is unique in that the RIB banks and drives like a mono-hull RIB but gives the width and stability of a catamaran. The tunnel is notched just behind the bow to create a small partial pressure reduction in the bow area and this aids in preventing spitting water out of the tunnel when punching waves.

The sharp edges on the step edges lead to the production of aerated water on the vertical running surfaces thereby reducing friction loads. The flat vertical surfaces give a strength advantage over curved tunnels as they aid in longitudinal stiffness. The horizontal surfaces give additional

vertical lift to the vessel allowing the vessel to become fully on the plane as opposed to mono-hulls and round tunnel catamarans that run in the sea as opposed to on the sea. The Predator hull design planes faster with lower hp. The 540 is available in a choice of two materials, either Panatex or Hypalon, wrapped around a grp hand-laid hull and decks. The 5.1m, 5.4m, and 6.3m have six air compartments, two bow, two ports and two starboard compartments. The layout is a typical centre console with seating forward and a bench helm seat with a folding backrest.

TINO 550YC

The Tino 550YC takes the concept of the Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB) to the next level with solid core buoyancy (SBM) tubes on an alloy hull that, while giving the impression of a standard RIB, is a whole lot more. SBM is an un-puncturable, impact-absorbing alternative to traditional RIB pneumatic tubes. It has the benefit of increased stability and minimal maintenance requirements.

The Tino YC series boats are designed to be a true sporting cross-over boat with the ultimate durable package wrapped up in a luxury form. The hardtop is not only stylish, but it's also very light, thanks to exotic construction. A tall safety glass screen provides excellent protection behind the console. A centre console enables access to all areas of the boat, ensuring every space is optimised. With unrivalled quality, the Tino 550YC is a watercraft different from any other RIB.

TIGER PROLINE 550

The Tiger Marine ProLine 550 powerboat has been produced by Tiger Marine since 2018. The Tiger Marine ProLine 550 is a 5.65m centre console boat with accommodation for ten people and a beam of 2.65m. The boat has a fibreglass hull with a CE certification class (C). The wide spaces on the deck allow for great ease in the passage around the boat. Standard features in the Proline 550 include a centre console with a foldable aft table, double driving seat, fibreglass bow step, 75 L built-in fuel tank, a removable sundeck, large rear seats and swim platforms. You can also add many options, such as a freshwater shower, bow table, sound system, faux teak flooring and foldable alloy rollbar with a bimini top. Maximum recommended horsepower is between 90-115hp.

WILLIAMS SPORTJET 460

In a new move for the performance RIB maker Williams Performance Tenders, the Sportjet range features BRP's Rotax 4-TEC 150 jet propulsion system, promising speeds of over 40kts. The Brit builder said the Rotax motor is one of the cleanest and quietest engines in the industry, "providing high-performance, superior handling and low-maintenance, as well as meeting stringent ultra-low-emission standards".

ZODIAC PRO /OPEN 5.5

With jet tenders, Williams' prime product, the Sportjets are targeting the waterski and wakeboarding set and providing another tender option for both standalone boaters and yacht owners to consider.

Water jet propulsion has no exposed propeller, a safety consideration factor the company promotes, particularly for operations around swimmers or waterskiers.

The Sportjet 460 has a dry weight of around 550kg. Some of the Sportjet features include a large sports platform area, rear-facing lounge seats, reversible backrest for sunbathing, folding helm with windshield, Sea Dek footwell and platform, a large storage locker forward and an additional storage locker in the helm. A windscreen, ski pole, navigation lights and swim ladder are fitted as standard. Optional extras include LED lights, bimini, dodger, Garmin chartplotter and a Fusion music system.

The Zodiac Pro and Open 5.5 are multi-purpose boats that allow you to customise their deck layout with seats or consoles according to your requirements. The Pro Open has a stylish look and great features, including a self-bailing deck, a largediameter removable tube, a choice of fabric and colours, and an under-deck storage capacity. Its deep-V hull enables it to easily cut smoothly into waves, giving the boat optimum performance.

The dimensions and the weight of each Pro 5.5 and Open 5.5 model have been specifically optimised to give an excellent weight-to-power ratio, going for moderate engine power while simplifying launching and retrieving manoeuvres.

The Open 5.5 is an adventurer style with sleek lines, a perfectly ergonomic cockpit, and an exceptional reinforced deep-V hull, offering control and stability through hazardous and rough seas.

The compartments on the deck will welcome the gear for all your water-based hobbies and can be converted into comfortable seats for a family day out or a space for fishing trips with friends.

NORTHSTAR AXIS 5.3

The Northstar Axis 5.3 is a high-spec performance RIB, perfect as a luxurious yacht tender or simply for those wanting to ride in comfort and style. The Northstar Axis RIB's have been developed to answer all the critical needs for a functional, ergonomic and performing day boat or yacht tender. They feature the delta-lift hull shape with integrated delta tabs aft. There is comfortable seating for nine passengers and large lockers under each seat provide ample storage. A reinforced deep 'V' hull, along with extended waterline length, extra-wide tubes and a square bow, ensure a stable and dry ride even in heavy seas. The Northstar Axis is soft riding, self draining and super safe in rough water and delivers a high level of safety and finish.

BUYERS GUIDE TO RIBS 5.5M (ISH)

Cormorant 550

“The perfect choice for fishing, diving, water skiing, or serving as a yacht tender” - Power Boat Magazine

Southern Pacific introduces the Cormorant 550, an allround RIB designed for Australasian waters. Featuring a rugged PVC and lightweight aluminum hull, ensuring durability, weight reduction, and a stable ride.

Designed in New Zealand, it incorporates a 5-chamber air tube with a textured fabric for protection and a nonslip surface. With the option of Orca Hypalon fabric, the Cormorant 550 offers versatility. The solid, lightweight aluminum hull can be easily trailered. Get ready for thrilling adventures with this masterpiece from Soutern Pacific.

AS GOOD AS IT GETS

Another beautiful day on the Gold Coast's Broadwater was my venue to review the Highfield Sport 660, a follow-up from a previous encounter last year on the same water with a Highfield Sport 700. I said then that the Sport 700 was a beast on the water and the smaller Sport 660 is equally as good. Based on a super deep vee 26 deg hull, the Sport 660 loves the rough water, and as a driver, you really get absorbed into the way the boat handles, the super smooth ride

and the dryness. It has no vices and does precisely what you ask of it. Okay, you will feel a few knocks and even spray when the sea state is excessive, but so does any boat. The difference with the Sport 660 is that its tolerance level is much higher than most.

The hull features a deep entry with reverse chines and strakes that carry well forward. While the Sport 700 has 565mm diameter Hypalon or PVC tubes, the Sport 660 is a little wider at 580mm. Either way, they both help towards the soft, balanced ride,

and despite the 26 deg vee, they settle the boat at rest with no stability issues.

Power options are 150-200hp, with our review boat powered by a Mercury 175. This returned a top speed on the calm waters in The Broadwater of 38 knots. The Sport 660 doesn't hang about when you punch the throttle all the way down, and it reached maximum 5500 rpm and top speed very quickly. Drop the throttle back to 4000 rpm and the Sport 660 has a sweet spot, using 31 lph, a speed of 28 knots and a range of 100 nm.

Sometimes you know before you even get aboard a boat that it will be great and will not hold any surprises. The Highfield Sport 660 is such a boat. The super deep vee hull aligns with the striking interior layout and finish. While no boat is faultless, the Highfield Sport 660 comes pretty damn close.

I liked that I could drive the boat in either the seated or standing position, thanks to the bolster seats.

Based on a super deep vee 26 deg hull, the Sport 660 loves the rough or smooth water.

DIFFERENT LAYOUT

The finish and presentation of the Sport 660 are as good as it gets, from the diamond stitch patterned squabs, EVA flooring and the overall attention to detail. The company is fully integrated with all components for the Sport 660, from the hull and tubes to all the fittings made in-house in the Highfield factory in China. Plus, all products and parts are designed using CAD and CNC cut. Highfield's core is performance and strength, which the brand has focussed on above anything else. Overall the Sport 660 is 48cm shorter, 34cm narrower, and 283kg lighter than the Sport 600. The Sport 660 layout differs from the Sport 700 due to the narrower beam between the tubes. Despite this, in no way is space compromised. While the Sport 700 is a centre console, the Sport 660 is more of a side console, leaving extra space on the port side. This means you don't need to clamber over

the tubes to go forward. Certainly an intelligent use of the room.

The Sport 660 seating layout provides a triple bench seat aft, twin helm seats and a forward seat off the console. The sizeable bow seat can be added with extra cushions to form a full bow sunpad or casting deck. The console seat lifts, exposing storage space in the console module, plus there is further storage under the bow squabs. Anchoring is over the bow with an enclosed anchor locker. EVA foam is used on the short foredeck and throughout the sole of the self-draining deck.

More storage is provided under the rear bench seat, plus there's another locker beneath the helm seats. I liked that I could drive the boat in either the seated or standing position, thanks to the bolster seats. The helm is spacious, and there is plenty of flat area to mount all your favourite accessories. A flush-mounted MFD, VHF radio and a Fusion

sound system would be a great start. The perspex screen is surrounded by a solid alloy rail, which is an excellent handhold when the driver gives the Sport 660 some air time between the swells. The rear of the helm seating console is complete with triple drink holders and a lift up table.

COVER UP

With our harsh UV rays in New Zealand and Australia, it is always a good idea to have some shade, and on the Sport 660, this is provided with an optional soft bimini which covers most of the aft section of the boat. This folds back against the rear alloy roll bar and is an option I would tick. Talking of the roll bar or rear arch, it also serves as a mount for the masthead light, a tow point for water toys and is the perfect place to mount some rod holders. The rear cushion backrests are hinged for ease of

access aboard. These can also be removed and the mounting bracket used for a baitboard or bbq. This also has a strategically placed handhold to assist you when coming back aboard from the water, when using the port side telescopic step ladder. There's a handheld freshwater shower nearby to rinse off.

The Highfield Sport 660 is rated for 13 people or 1287kg load, so it is undoubtedly designed as a people carrier. If you have ideas to use the boat as a tender for a large motor yacht, the Sport 600 comes with integrated davit lifting eyes. It has a heavyduty rubbing strake all around to protect against brushing up against things like piles and docks. The Keel guard helps eliminate any chips and scratching of the keel when you bring the Sport 660 up on a beach. With a trailerable weight of around 2000kgs (depending on fuel and gear aboard), the boat is easily towed by a medium to a large vehicle.

PICK YOUR SIZE

When you have built nearly 50,000 boats, you would expect Highfield to get it pretty right. With the Sport 660, they have. The Sport 660 is the company's biggest-selling boat in the 5.5m-7m sector, and it is easy to see why. The 2023 Sport range in the 5.5m + market comprises six models from 5.6m to 9.0m, so depending on your budget and size requirements, there is a model to suit. The Sport 660 is a multi-functional family sports cruiser, yacht tender, dive boat or whatever you want to do with it. In all, 13 models in the Sport series make up just a part of Highfield's 39 models and five Series lineup.

PERFORMANCE DATA : MERCURY 175

SPECIFICATIONS

Year Launched 2023

As Tested $151000

Centre Console

Highfield Boats

6.51m

2.59m

Length 4.75m

Beam 1.35m

Diameter 580cm

26 deg

Wgt 2000 kgs (est)

Weight 740kg

Speed 38 knots

Hypalon/GRP

Cap 140 litres

Make Mercury 175

Power 200hp

MFD 2 x Simrad 12”

Sound System JL Audio VHF Simrad Flooring EVA

Contact HIGHFIELDBOATS.COM.AU

AAKRONEXPRESS.CO.NZ

THE PINNACLE OF PREMIUM.

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