Some superyacht owners like the function-dictates-form character of a RIB. Others prefer the sportiness in looks and performance of a fiberglass center console. Iron Boats proposes its lineup as a third tender option. Its boats marry the practical protection of a RIB with the handling of a fiberglass sport boat, simultaneously avoiding the potential downsides of each.
Made in Sweden, with distribution in the United States, the family-owned (and family-named) Iron Boats offers models from 22 to 29 feet (4 to 9 meters). Each has a Scandinavian-influenced profile and suits modern-minded owners who view the tender as an extension of the mothership. Additionally, each features a proprietary design that the company calls the Iron Fender system. Briefly, it’s a fiberglass hull with an integrated, wraparound rigid fender structure.
That rigid surround, according to Iron Boats, lends more peace of mind over both RIBs and center consoles. With RIBs, for instance, the inflatable tubes are subject to UV degradation and punctures. RIB tubes further yield when passengers step on them during boarding or disembarkation alongside the megayacht, a challenge especially in Mediterranean swells. Expensive cosmetic damage, meanwhile, can occur with center consoles in crowded marinas or alongside floating docks. By contrast, the Iron Fender system remains sturdy, perforation-resistant, and lower maintenance.
On the performance side, Iron Boats’ design has advantages, too. At higher speeds, RIBs tend to bounce and slam. The deep-V of the Swedish manufacturer’s boats is akin to that of center consoles, providing a smooth, comfortable ride, including in choppy seas. They additionally deliver the high-speed experience many megayacht owners want. In fact, each of the single-engine-only models are especially for those who like taking the wheel as much as they want practical transport. Consider that the smallest model, the 647 Open, reportedly hits upwards of 52 mph. The 29-foot flagship 907 Coupe delivers a thrilling top speed exceeding of 63 mph.
The boats offer further benefits that owners expect of tenders. Each model is capable of beach landings. They can support families’ favorite watersports as well, not simply utilitarian purposes.
Is a third category of superyacht tender necessary? Considering how tenders have evolved, especially in recent years, the answer seems to be yes. More and more yacht buyers expect more from their auxiliary craft—and really, the craft are just as “primary” as the motherships.
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Deborah Fry
Looks exciting. Beach landings are great. Look forward to having Yacht Trace tender monitoring on them for towing allowances with insurance.