Walker Bay is launching its new Venture 16, and the company calls it the world’s first 16-foot luxury sport tender RIB. The new V16 is much more than a sport tender, however. You can use it for exploring, fishing, diving or just about anything else you can do on an all-around 16-foot runabout.
The V16 offers three driving positions. Its flip-up bolster seats create room for standing or elevated seating, in addition to the regular seated position. Its hydraulic, tilt steering wheel and a top-mounted throttle make all three positions comfortable for the driver, while the wide rear seat with the twin flip-up bolsters provides a soft ride for both the driver and passenger.
A new upright helm console gives protection from the wind, and it’s large enough to hold a 12” chartplotter, engine gauges, VHF radio and a stereo. All the seating has thick cushioning, and the seats at the console and on the bow have plush backrests for reclining. A large cooler is built in at the front the console. Boarding is easy with non-slip steps aft, port and starboard and on the bow.
The V16’s modified-V hull provides a dry and smooth ride. Powered by a single 100-hp Honda outboard, the boat tops out at 41 mph. At a cruising speed of 15 mph, it has a range of 196 miles. The boat itself weighs 725 pounds, and it’s rated for ten passengers.
The new Walker Bay is available in three color accents: Military Gray, Carbon Black, and Ocean Blue. The base price is $25,950, plus the engine. A Bimini top and Sunbrella boat cover are options.
Based in Union Gap, Washington, Walker Bay has been building small boats for 23 years. They are now sold in more than 50 countries around the world.
Specs.: LOA: 16’0”; Beam: 7’6”; Draft: NA; Disp.: 1,506 lbs.; Fuel: 28 gals.; Water: 8 gals.; Power: 1×100-hp Honda outboard.
