Amphibious RIB for local market

An inflatable boat that carries three motorised wheels that can be lowered to enable it to drive out of the water under its own power will be on display at both the 2009 Sydney International and Melbourne boat shows in July.

The Sealegs range of boats have been around for a few years and feature a trio of innovate retractable wheels that makes the inflatable ideal of places with boat ramps. It has been designed for use by everyone from the military and rescue groups to sports lovers.

However sales of the Sealegs boats have not taken off among private buys due to the almost six figure price tag. The engineering involved in the design is cutting edge and this commands a premium, but Sealegs hopes to attract more Australian customers with boat show exhibits.

The inflatable Hypalon hulls can be driven on water with outboards ranging from 90 to 150hp and can reach speeds of up to 60km/h (37 knots). When they reach shallow water, the three wheels -- one on the bow and two at the stern -- can be lowered and the boat driven out under its own power.

Sealegs can climb a slope with a grade up to 1:4 and travel at up to 10km/hr. They can climb up beaches, over slippery gravel or up normal launching ramps thanks to rugged tyres.

Placed on a trailer, Sealegs models are light enough to be towed by a family car. And how's this: one intrepid adventurer in a Sealegs boat recently completed a circumnavigation of the North Island of New Zealand.

Sealegs will be displayed at the Sydney International Boat Show and the Melbourne Boat Show in July 2009.