If you pay close attention to the toys toted by superyachts, then you may recognize the name Smuggler Marine. Its RIBs have been aboard Alloy Yachts deliveries such as Salperton. Now the New Zealand-based RIB and trailer-boat manufacturer is setting its sights on farther-flung shores, touting its ability to customize the craft for nearly any need.
Smuggler builds all its RIBs in compliance with CE standards and provides a five-year structural hull warranty. Pictured here are the Strata 630 (above) and Strata 750 (below), just two of a range of RIBs from 4 to 11 meters (13 to 36 feet, respectively).
Seven Strata 630s have been delivered to date, with most powered by a 160-hp Volvo Penta D3 diesel inboard. It can carry eight people and hit a reported top speed of 44 mph with the 160-hp engine. The engine, by the way, is available as a stern drive or with a Hamilton jet drive, and the diesel system naturally makes it convenient to refuel from the main yacht, as some owners and crew do. Aesthetics-wise, the 630 comes with Tek Dek synthetic flooring, an MP3/CD player, handy grabrails off the swim platform, and a fill-in cushion for the forward V seating area.
As for the Strata 750, Smuggler Marine reports that owners use it as a fishing and/or diving platform in addition to a traditional guest tender. Maximum capacity is 12 people. Teak trim on the boarding platform and optional removable carpet gussy it up for the superyacht set. A livewell can be fitted onboard, as can a rocket launcher, if you want to fish it. A drop-down bolster seat with five rod holders is optional. If the 750 will serve divers or swimmers, there’s a handheld freshwater shower and pump plus a water tank. Regardless of how you’ll use the RIB, a hardtop with stainless steel supports is among the other options. Power comes courtesy of a 150- or 250-hp Evinrude E-TEC two-stroke outboard. In addition, the 27-degree, deep-V hull can reportedly take on waters other RIBs can’t.
Smuggler Marine sells directly to builders and consumers alike, so contact the company for pricing, customization options, and other details.
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