
Sydney company AB Inflatables saw the need to provide a new generation of lightweight, centre-console RIB tenders and so rewrote the rule book to create a new range under the Mares brand.
The first one to come off the production line is the Mares 10 measuring in at 3.19 metres and with a hull weight (fibreglass) of 119 kilograms allowing the Mares 10 to get on the water at under 200kg, fitted with a 20hp four-stroke motor.
AB Inflatables says that the new design is not a kit boat. It has a fully-moulded deck with comfortable seating for four adults. With a 20hp (four-stroke) it will plane with four people. For those who need more power it is rated to take a 30hp motor.
A large part of the brief is aimed at passenger comfort and this is arguably the driest tender around with good sea keeping ability, we’re told.
Some of the features are stainless-steel wheel, LED navigation lights, stern light, bilge pump, loads of storage, grab rails and plenty of optional extras.
AB has reduced the weight by using modern composite technology and at the same time maintaining the solid structural build that they’re well known for. This includes incorporating stringers in the hull construction. AB maintains their traditional large tubes made with the best hypalon, proper hypalon fittings and the best quality valves.
Recommended retail pricing starts at around $10,200 (hull only) with a fully-rigged boat around $18,200.
AB is expanding the Mare range and we’re told a new model will follow shortly. The Mares 10 is available from RIB Force Inflatables on the Gold Coast and Boating Connexions in Sydney.
For more information go to www.ribforce.com