Highfield Boats, the world’s largest maker of aluminum-hulled RIBs, just launched its largest boat yet, the almost-30-foot Sport 900 that can hold 15 passengers and hit a top speed of 60 mph.
The all-new Sport 900 has an unusual 26-degree deadrise at the transom so the large RIB can cut through offshore waters. The company says it is designed for use as tender or a high-end day and picnic boat. It is the top of Highfield’s Sport series, which starts at 9’ 8.”
The new Highfield represents the growing popularity of RIBs. Tom Watson, the general manager of Highfield Boats USA, says, “In the past five years, we have seen the market for larger offshore-capable RIBs grow as superyachts continue to get larger, outboard-powered day boats soared in popularity, and customer demands have continued to evolve.”
Even with its larger size, the new Sport 900 is easy to tow, launch and recover, just like the smaller Highfields. It’s built to be tough, and it has integrated davit lifting eyes.
The new RIB has EVA teak throughout, integrated fuel tanks, diamond-stitched upholstery, a swim platform, Vitrifrigo fridge, Sunbrella top, a small galley and a shower kit, an integrated rear seat with a cushion, bow and stern sundecks, and a rear table.
For ease of entry, there’s a boarding step on the bow. The console has a tinted windshield and a grabrail. A carbon finish on the dash is optional. The boat comes with six color options.
Driven by twin 300-hp outboards, the Sport 900 can power through most sea conditions while delivering the performance that makes driving fun. The hull has welded lifting strakes to aid its performance.
The tubes are made with ORCA Hypalon, and the hull consists of high-tensile chromated and powder-coated aluminum. The deck is self-draining.
Highfield has been making aluminum-hulled RIBs in China since 2011. They are now sold in 38 countries around the world.
Specs.: LOA: 29’11”; Beam: 10’2”; Draft: NA; Disp. (boat only): 3,730 lbs.; Fuel: 114 gals.; Water: NA; Power: 2×300-hp outboards. Read more:
http://highfieldnorthamerica.com
