More than 20 years after its founding, the RIBs manufacturer Northstar has completed the last piece of a puzzle it’s been working on for some time. With the launch of the Northstar Vega Lite 4.2 RIB, it has reimagined a model to rely on a one-step construction process.
With three production sites in Izmir, Türkiye, Northstar makes upwards of 700 boats annually. It further has customers in more than 30 countries, including the United States. While it relies on a dealer network, including stateside, Northstar USA is the American office headquarters in North Carolina.
Among all of its models, the Vega line is for owners and crews seeking a versatile, sporty RIB. One day, for instance, the craft can shuttle guests to and from beachy shorelines. On another, the RIBs are for fun rides all afternoon long. The Northstar Vega Lite 4.2 is an updated version of the Vega 4.2, with the difference essentially being she’s lighter weight. She specifically relies on Northstar’s own proprietary resin-transfer molding process, which has been in regular refinement for five years. Briefly, resin-transfer molding ensures that a single step turns large, multi-part, or stiffened structures into a single piece. Traditionally, craftspeople have bonded and fastened each part to the main structure.
Resin-transfer molding not only reduces weight, but also greatly reduces costs. Furthermore, it improves the aesthetic consistency from RIB to RIB (or, with other companies, powerboat to powerboat). Northstar says it cuts the production timeline in half as well. The manufacturing method is now in use across the entire Vega Lite range, which also includes the Vega Lite 2.9, 3.2, 3.5, and 3.8. According to the company, it’s the only RIB manufacturer offering a full series with the single-shot construction approach.
With an LOA of 13’9” (4.2 meters) and a 6’7” (2-meter) beam, the Northstar Vega Lite 4.2 still has Hypalon tubes, of course. It also retains the integrated stowage that customers appreciate from the previous model, plus seating for six. A fiberglass bow ramp makes stepping on and off during beach landings easier. Additionally, as with any RIB that a superyacht may need to carry, the RIB has four lifting rings. Lastly, optional features include a swim ladder and anti-slip patches on the tubes.
“Completing the Vega line family marks an important milestone for Northstar,” says Cengiz Arsay, its president. “Our goal was to create a complete range of lightweight premium yacht tenders that make ownership easier.”
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