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What is the Small Boat on a Ship Called? Dinghies or Tender?

Written by J. Harvey / Fact checked by S. Numbers

For all their sheer majestic size, it’s not at all a surprise that we can never really run out of things to talk about with regard to what they can carry. For one, the concept of a “boat within a boat” can catch any curious soul’s fancy.

So, what is the small boat on a ship called? It depends on the purpose. However, if we’re talking about the most common small-sized vessel, then it’s called a “tender.” Other boats that can fit this description include dinghies and lifeboats.

Table of Contents

Unveiling the Intricacies of Small Watercrafts on Ships

Lifeboat vs tender boat.

Most of the terms above belong to modern-day vessels. But what if we peer at naval history a bit? Well, we’re going to find that a small boat with different names isn’t exactly a rare thing.

Back in the Age of Sail, a small auxiliary vessel carried on most ships would be called a “launch”. More sophisticated forms of it would be called the Captain’s Yacht.

It’s sophisticated in the sense that it offers more luxuries but is still mainly used for convenient personal transportation by the captain of the ship. These luxuries have made their way to modern tender boats, as evidenced by their inclusion of amenities.

Moreover, just look at the term such a watercraft on a pirate ship: a jolly boat. It was used to transport people and supplies to the shore and back to the ship. Many sailors used it for surveillance, inspection, and other minor marine activities.

Other than its more casual purpose, that definition is not much different from the actual function of a tender boat on a yacht at present. Simply put, it’s a small boat that takes you to shore.

I can say the same for your average dinghy boat, which many agree is just another name for a tender boat, only the former is often a larger version of the latter.

Incidentally, some sailors affectionately call these smaller boats “junior.” Just a heads-up if you happen to encounter the term in boating circles.

Now that we’ve established that most of these terms are more or less synonymous with one another, it’s time to address the elephant in the room: the humble but ever-useful lifeboat.

Surely, they don’t fall in the same category even though they’re arguably small boats that most ships carry? I suggest you read its comparison to a tender boat, which I prepared below.

• A lifeboat counts mainly as a “survival watercraft”. This means it’s a boat that you should only use in times of emergency. It can’t be used to ferry passengers and supplies ashore if there’s no immediate danger involved (i.e. regular port calls).
• A tender fulfills that transportation function, often when the ship is anchored offshore. It often has more space to accommodate more passengers and may offer amenities like toilets and air conditioning.

That doesn’t necessarily mean that they compromise safety as they also come equipped with life vests and even smaller life rafts, which can be quickly deployed should the need arise.

Despite the obvious difference between the two, it has to be said that certain small boats aboard a ship do count as both lifeboats and tenders at the same time.

This hybrid type is often larger than your lifeboat, even though it may still be called as such. It’s entirely allowed to transport passengers from ship to shore and vice versa.

Overall, there’s certainly more than one name for a small boat, and having been in the marine industry for years, I’m not at all surprised. Naval terms are as rich as the history that is the foundation of the industry’s lingering traditions.

Who knew that diving a bit into “What is the small boat on a ship called?” could merit such deep musings and a yearning for more learning in me? I hope I was able to inspire the same for you.

But if you’re an old salt at heart and a sage thirsty for knowledge at the same time, you’ll, without a doubt, understand.

“My intention from the first day establishing Boating Basics Online is to provide as much help as possible for boaters who want to experience a first safe and convenient trip. So feel free to join us and share your beautiful journeys to the sea!”

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Top 15 Tenders and RIBS

Top 15 tenders and ribs, here’s a look at some of today’s top tender and rib builders and their models., zodiac pro 6.5.

Achilles HB-315DX

Airship 340

Hyfoil Foiling RIB 28

  Argos Nautic 305 Yachting

  Avon Seasport 400 Deluxe

Caribe nautica dl11, highfield cldl360.

Mercury 320 Aluminium

Technohull Omega 45 

Ribcraft 5.85

Sealegs Electric E4

Walker Bay Venture 14

 Williams Sportjet 435

Seven Marine and Volvo Penta Partnership

Cheoy lee presents the cla 76f.

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Your Guide to Choosing the Best Yacht Tender

A yacht tender is your ticket to freedom on the water. Once you drop anchor, it’s your ride to the fun and adventure that inspired you to buy a boat in the first place. Just imagine watersports, exploring, scuba diving, snorkeling and, of course, just relaxing in the warm sun!

Here’s a quick secret — your yacht tender is the most fun boat you’ll ever own.

We think a dinghy should not only reflect the beauty and precision of a yacht but also have the power and functionality to push fun to the limit. Is there any better way to celebrate dropping anchor than a cold drink and a zoom on the dinghy? Please, let us know if you find something.

Having the right tender lets you enjoy your boating experience to the fullest. There are a few things to consider when picking the best yacht tender for you, so we made this guide to help you through the process. We’ll go over:

• The benefits of rigid inflatable boats
• Pricing of small yacht tenders
• How to pick the right dinghy
• A brief overview of our models

There are lots of yacht tender options out there, and it’s essential to find the best one for you. Whether you’re looking for the best small boat or superyacht tender, we’ll give you the information you need to find the perfect dinghy for your life on the water. Read on to learn how to pick the perfect yacht tender.

The Benefits of Rigid Inflatable Boats

Rigid inflatable tenders have become the go-to choice for boaters. Here’s the deal.

Safety is always the first priority when you’re on the water. With the ever-changing conditions of an ocean environment, you need a tender that’s prepared to handle it all. There’s a reason the United States Coast Guard, military and police use rigid inflatable boats — they’re extremely seaworthy. The United States Navy describes rigid inflatables as extremely fast and buoyant. It employs them for Navy SEAL extractions and in intense ocean conditions.

Virtually unsinkable and super tough, rigid inflatable boats are hands-down the best choice for those who desire small yacht tenders.

What Do You Mean by Rigid Inflatable Boat?

Commonly called a RIB, a rigid inflatable boat has a hard hull and inflatable tubes for sides. This construction gives rigid inflatables the best of two worlds — they have the indestructible v-hull and tracking of a hard boat and the shock absorption of an inflatable boat. They’re as hardy as they are versatile. For example, we offer Navy-tough tenders with beautiful European craftsmanship that you can’t find anywhere else.

In addition to their durability, RIBs offer many other advantages. Here are a few more reasons why RIBs represent a smart investment.

RIBs Provide Stability

In a rigid inflatable tender, there’s little risk of tipping over because the inflatable tube and hard hull combination provide excellent stability, which is great for loading and unloading your family and your toys.

Also, the inflatable tubes significantly increase a tender’s capacity rating, meaning you can safely fit more passengers and gear on a RIB than on a hard dinghy. Known as the “Safe Working Load,” or SWL, this capacity is detailed by the manufacturer. To calculate the maximum number of people who should be aboard a small vessel, multiply a vessel’s length by width and then divide the result by 15.

RIBs Demonstrate Impressive Efficiency

Inflatable dinghies are much lighter than hard tenders. Weighing less means they’re much more efficient, and you can pack in a lot more adventure with the same amount of gas. Skip the line at the fuel dock, and head straight into your day.

RIBs Have Exceptional Safety

A great benefit of having an inflatable tender is you don’t have to worry about damage to your luggage or your precious cargo. We all have all experienced that awkward misstep aboard boats. When everything and everyone is moving around in the ocean, you may have trouble not fumbling every once in a while. It’s much nicer to catch yourself on the cushioned tubes of an inflatable than on hard fiberglass — we’ve tested this one!

When you’re going fast and having fun on the water, you don’t want to worry about safety. Knowing you’re in the safest dinghy lets you relax and focus on your adventure.

The United States Coast Guard has specific safety requirements for all recreational vessels. Adhering to these not only keeps your tender legal, but it also keeps you and your family safe. You can follow a simplified list of requirements.

It’s Easy to Use RIBs

For everyday boating operations, having an inflatable-sided dinghy is the best. You don’t have to deal with fenders or worry about all the bumps and nudges like on a hard tender.

Getting a spot at the dinghy dock often means playing bumper boats. If you have a dinghy with inflatable sides, you don’t damage other vessels, the dock, or your dinghy. Not to mention if you’re dropping someone off or tying up on your yacht, you can leave your dinghy unattended without worrying about damage to your boat.

Sometimes, it’s easier to tow your tender than it is to put it away — like if you’re changing to a nearby mooring or going to a secluded cove for the day. And unlike a hard tender, an inflatable can bounce off your yacht without damaging anything.

Anyone Can Maintain a RIB

Rigid inflatable boats need a lot less maintenance than hard tenders, partially because they’re less likely to get damaged in the first place. Inflatables don’t have fiberglass siding that can get cracks or holes, and their parts are easily replaceable. We offer replacement parts through our website and also have free online owners manuals for every model we carry.

RIBs are also much easier to keep clean than the scuff-prone fiberglass of hard tenders. The tubes are made of high-quality non-absorbent material that lets you easily wash off or wipe down your dinghy to keep it looking nice.

RIBs Are More Comfortable Than Hard Dinghies

Inflatable dinghies are bound to be more seaworthy than hard dinghies. The inflatable tubes absorb shock from wind waves and swell when you’re going fast, which gives you and your family a better ride.

Did we mention inflatable dinghies are just more fun? The incredible stability of the inflatable sides makes climbing out of the water a lot easier. And when you’re ready to cool off, the tubing makes for the perfect diving platform. You and your family can literally bounce off the walls.

How to Pick the Right Dinghy for You

Basically, choosing the best yacht tender comes down to three things:

• What tender your yacht can hold
• How many people will be aboard your tender
• How you’ll use your tender

Tender Sizing

Determining the right-sized tender for your yacht is an important decision. People sometimes go for the first inexpensive option they see, without realizing just how much time they’ll end up spending on their tender — but keep in mind, tenders are the unsung heroes of the boating world.

It depends on how you want to use your dinghy, of course, but a good rule of thumb is if you can go bigger, go bigger. You don’t want to overdo it, but people sometimes underestimate the size of the dinghy they’ll need and have to upgrade later. Leave yourself some extra leg room and you, your family and your guests, including loyal pets, will be happier in the long run.

Here’s what to consider when choosing the size of your tender.

What Size Dinghy Can Your Yacht Carry?

The size of your storage area is often a good indicator of how large your dinghy should be. If you’re not sure what size dinghy is best suited to your yacht, measure the tender storage area or contact your dealer — they will give you the specifications of your dinghy storage and a suitable range of tender sizes.

Also, keep in mind what the type of storage area for a dinghy on your yacht. If you have a dedicated dinghy garage where it will be out of the way when not in use, you don’t have to worry about getting the maximum size. But if your dinghy storage is on a hydraulic swim step, keep in mind you’ll need enough room to function around the dinghy while it’s aboard.

How Many People Will Be Aboard Your Yacht Tender?

If your yacht has room for a lot of passengers, you’ll probably want a dinghy that can transport a lot of people, too. When you’re doing ship-to-shore transportation for you and your guests, you don’t want to make five trips to the dock and back. Choose a tender that can hold enough passengers and cargo.

Again, assuming you have enough room to store it, we recommend assessing your dinghy needs and then considering the next size up to leave room for any extra guests, luggage or toys you may want to bring along. Extra space not only helps you operate your dinghy more safely, but it also leaves room for comfort.

What’s the Purpose of Your Dinghy?

That’s easy — fun! Pick your pleasure.

Are you all about watersports and exploration? Water skiing and searching for secluded beaches to relax the day away or scuba diving on beautiful reefs? Or maybe you’re just looking for a stable and dry ride to shore to shop, dine and discover. Whatever it is you like to do, a proper tender gets you into the mix.

Once you decide how you want to use your dinghy, you’ll have a better idea of which one you’ll want. If you like watersports, maybe a model with a little more size and power will suit you. If you just want a comfortable, dry ride to shore, maybe you’d prefer a model that’s smaller and quiet.

By the way, kids love dinghies — it’s a fact. Inflatable dinghies are awesome for towing the kids around on inflatable water toys, and they’re also a great way to teach the young ones how to drive a boat. But be careful — you’ll be asking “permission to come aboard” before you know it.

A Step-by-Step Review of How to Pick Your Yacht Dinghy

Follow these five steps to ensure you pick your RIB correctly:

• Determine the size of tender your boat can handle.
• Estimate the number of passengers and how much gear you’ll carry.
• Figure out how you want to use your tender.
• Browse and pick your favorite model .
• Hit the open seas.

Tender Pricing Vs. Quality

There are cheap dinghy options out there, but you often get what you pay for. A proper tender is not only a representation of your yacht but an integral part of your boating experience. The yacht may do the heavy lifting on a voyage, but the dinghy is your transportation once you’re on anchor or a mooring.

If you work hard to create a luxurious atmosphere on your yacht, you’ll want a dinghy that reflects the same attention to detail that you expect from a precision watercraft. Our tenders are all about functionality without sacrificing style. We know a quality dinghy is essential to your yacht — that’s why we don’t cut corners. We pride ourselves on using the latest technology with only the best materials and precision European craftsmanship.

What Dinghy Models Does BRIG USA Offer?

We manufacture all of our tenders in our 100,000-square-feet headquarters in Europe . A team of industry experts — including ex-military and aeronautical engineers — seasoned craftsmen and designers make sure that no detail is overlooked. We take pride in knowing we produce premium dinghies for amazing adventures around the world. We have a wide range of tenders to choose from to match your needs and preferences:

• Our Falcon Tender series ranges from 9 feet 6 inches to 15 feet 10 inches and can carry four to nine people, or 500 to 2,645 pounds. This series is the smaller range of tenders that we offer, but make no mistake — they have the power to get the job done and look good doing it.
• Our Navigator series is a step up in size from the Falcon series. They range from 15 feet 11 inches to 24 feet and can carry eight to 10 people, or 2,315 to 3,960 pounds. This line of tenders has increased size and range for bigger yachts and even more passengers, gear and good times.
• The Eagle series is our flagship line. With unparalleled design and function, they range from 11 feet 2 inches all the way to 32 feet 6 inches and can carry from four to 20 people, or 1,320 to 6,173 pounds. On our larger models, you won’t feel like you’re on a dinghy — they have the capacity, range and comfort for a full day of fun with the whole gang. No joke — these tenders turn heads.

Who Makes the Best Rigid Inflatable Boats? Find Them at BRIG USA

Yes, we’re biased. But for good reason — our dealers have the largest inventory of inflatable boats in the United States and the best inflatable yacht tenders. No one matches our prices or quality.

We have several options for high-quality dinghies for your needs and your price point. We offer premium quality at competitive pricing.

No matter what you’re looking for, BRIG USA has the right tender for your yacht. Check out our models and get out on the water.

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The Best Tenders for Yachts in 2024

Tenders in a nutshell

A tender is a boat that services a larger vessel (referred to as the mothership ). It can take many forms and deliver a wide range of conveniences.

Historically called ‘ship’s boats, ‘ tenders have supported large vessels for centuries. They have been used for guest transfers, refuge boats, landing crafts, stowed on deck or towed astern—little has changed! 

Whilst the vast majority of tenders employed by smaller yachts are typically rigid inflatable boats, the modern-day superyacht considers a multitude of vessels indispensable.

Hull categories

We’ve been specialising in building boat tenders for over a decade, yet with such a degree of cross-over and with a seemingly endless request for custom configurations, categorising tenders remains a challenge.

Nonetheless, at the top-most level, we categorise all tenders under one of the following three hull types:

Fully Inflatable A lightweight vessel relying solely on inflation for buoyancy. 

Rigid Inflatable A vessel with a hull constructed from rigid materials such as aluminium or fibreglass, supported with an inflatable or foam collar for added buoyancy in high seas. 

Rigid   A fully rigid hull without a buoyancy collar of any type.

Tender sub-categories

In addition to hull type, we can identify most yacht tenders under the following sub-categories:

⌾ Open ⌾ Chase ⌾ Classic ⌾ Foil ⌾ Catamaran ⌾ Dive

What is an open tender?

An open tender is principally a single-deck boat with no enclosed cabin. Chiefly a guest transfer boat with ample seating both forward and aft, open tenders are day boats without accommodation above or below deck.

While we see many open tenders dedicated to guest transfers, by their very nature, they can also incorporate centre console boats, some dive boats, landing crafts, and even limousines.

What is a chase tender?

As the name suggests, a chase tender—which can also be an open tender—follows the mothership.

Chase boats can take on many guises since their main attribute is size. As a result, they are generally not stored on board but instead towed astern.

Often very angular in design, with excellent seaworthiness, chase boats need to be able to withstand the rigours of being towed by the mothership. Whilst a lot of large chase tenders can be operated entirely independently, towing very long distances (such as transatlantic) is not advised.

What is a classic tender?

Tenders with the hallmark of classic design are styled with an exquisite, continuous line from the head to the heel.

Echoing the lacquered freeboards of a Riva Ariston or the flawless veneers of a Hinckley picnic boat, a modern classic from the likes of J Craft or Wajer will feature a gracefully tapered form, avoiding right angles altogether.

What is a foiling tender?

Combining thrust with lift (as an aeroplane does), high-speed tenders have the opportunity also to become airborne.

Less drag, higher speeds and lower energy consumption are the key advantages, although from a guest comfort perspective, being elevated above a big swell scores very highly.

What is a catamaran tender?

Largely associated with utility boats, catamaran tenders (not to be confused with catamaran sailboats) present superyacht owners with a number of major advantages over their mono-hulled counterparts.

Favoured as a utility vessel, a twin-hulled catamaran can be built much wider than an equivalent-length vessel with a mono hull. It offers increased stability and, therefore, a more comfortable ride in bigger seas. Thanks to a smaller surface area, there’s also less drag, which results in faster speeds and higher efficiency.

What is a dive tender?

We build tenders optimised specifically for scuba diving, however, given the range of crossover in the market, the likes of amphibious boats, beachlanders, some centre consoles, landing crafts, open tenders, RIBs and utility boats can also work perfectly well for diving.

Storage, floor space and, most importantly, the convenience of easy access to the water are key attributes of a versatile dive boat tender.

The right tender for the job

So far we’ve categorised our tenders — now to define which tender is best suited to which scenario.

Amphibious Tender

✓ Rigid ✓ Rigid Inflatable ✓ Open ✓ Chase ✓ Tow or stow

Sharp stones, steep drop-offs, inclement weather, and changing tides needn’t worry your crew when you have the luxury of an amphibious tender. Visit almost any secluded cove or spit with virtually no risk of becoming stranded or beached.

Go where other boats simply wouldn’t dare, landing on shorelines in rough breaks and on rugged terrain. Be sure to do your homework, though, as most beaches and marinas will require permission to stroll out the sea on an amphibious tender.

Beachlander Tender

We are all about time spent on the water, but the sensation of stepping off a tender onto the warm sand is in itself a joy to behold. We don’t mean clambering over the side of a rib and bouncing awkwardly into the shallows. We mean stepping from a dry boat onto dry sand.

Whether you intend to spend the day in your swimmers or are off for an island excursion, getting wet feet before you begin should be a choice. 

We offer a beachlander option on all of our aluminium rigid inflatable boats .

Classic Daysailer

✓ Rigid ✓ Open ✓ Classic ✓ Stow

Strip back the layers of modernity that clothe large motor yachts and delve into a tactile sailing experience with a classic daysailer.   Built a short distance upriver from SYTT, the Spirit R30 is a daysailer that marries cinematic elegance with unparalleled craftsmanship.    Born from the same yard that graced the silver screen in iconic Bond films such as Casino Royale  and No Time To Die , this 9.2m yacht epitomises timelessness with its exquisite wooden construction.    Small sailing boats like the R30 can be de-rigged and stowed, nestled within a yacht’s garage or gracefully perched on deck.

Center Console

✓ Rigid ✓ Open ✓ Chase ✓ Tow or stow

Synonymous with the Florida Keys, the traditional centre console (or center console in the US), is typically a single-deck boat with the helm in the middle.

Geared towards recreational fishing, the centre console maximises the floor space while, crucially, allowing for full access around all sides of the boat. On smaller boats, seating is often sacrificed for floor space, while larger centre consoles fitted with cabins creep into the Sports Fisher sector.

Not intended to be an especially dry boat, both crew and guests are often exposed to the elements. The upshot is that centre consoles and, more so, sports fishers, tend to offer huge power, which is especially useful for long day trips from the mainland.

High-performance

‘Go-fast’ boats, as the name suggests, are built exclusively for speed. More commonly known as ‘cigarette boats’ due to their shape, go-fast boats are not for the faint-hearted. 

A craze immortalised by the Cigarette Racing Team, modern-day cigar boats can achieve speeds of over 100 knots. Largely impractical as a conventional superyacht tender, the range of high-performance boats have thankfully branched more into Centre Consoles. In turn, this presents superyacht owners with a high-performance chase boat of an almost unimaginable spec.

Landing Craft

✓ Rigid ✓ Rigid Inflatable ✓ Inflatable ✓ Open ✓ Chase ✓ Catamaran ✓ Dive ✓ Tow or stow

A vessel with a very military feel, a landing craft tender is designed to carry everything, including vehicles, from yacht to shore. 

With our ROAM Landing Craft, a button-operated super-strength bow ramp enables drive-on, drive-off capabilities, ideal for disembarking heavy items where lifting facilities are not available at shore.

Our landing crafts are built with a catamaran hull for enhanced stability. We also manufacture high-quality fold-up motorised boats.

Limousine Tender

✓ Rigid ✓ Open ✓ Classic ✓ Foil ✓ Stow

Surely the ultimate statement of sophistication — the limousine tender is the pinnacle mode of guest transfer.

A range of 6-14m and accommodating up to eighteen guests in consummate luxury, a fully enclosed guest cabin will often mirror the furnishings of the mothership.

Picnic Boat

✓ Rigid ✓ Chase ✓ Classic ✓ Stow

If leisure cruising and lunching were your only pursuit, you’d surely have a picnic boat. The quintessential day cruiser, a picnic boat is unequivocally designed for rest and relaxation on the water.

Inspired by the lobster boats of Maine, where the sloping rails from bow to stern made it easier for lobstermen to haul in their traps, the symbolic Picnic Boat represents everything exciting and romantic about a day out on the water.

Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB)

✓ Rigid Inflatable ✓ Open ✓ Dive ✓ Tow or stow

The workhorse tender of any yacht is the Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB). Robust, versatile, and highly manoeuvrable, RIBs typically offer speed, buoyancy, and good handling on high seas. 

A foam or inflatable collar provides extra buoyancy in the event of taking on water, while in the case of RIB boats —which have a high deadrise—also acts as a spray rail for keeping the deck dry. Popular with superyachts, RIBs can be towed or stowed and used for a wide range of purposes.

✓ Rigid ✓ Open ✓ Dive ✓ Stow

Nothing allows us to explore an affinity with water quite like the experience of wakeboarding, wake surfing and water skiing.

We specialise in wake boat customisation, supplying specifically to superyachts.

SOLAS Rescue Tender

✓ Rigid Inflatable ✓ Inflatable ✓ Stow

In accordance with the International Convention for Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), all ships over 500GT (typically 50m+) must carry at least one fully compliant SOLAS Rescue Vessel (and a complement of life rafts). The rescue vessel must be stowed onboard and cannot be towed astern or located on a support vessel.

SOLAS Rescue Vessels must be able to carry five seated persons and a person lying on a stretcher. They must also have an automatic self-righting capability and the engine must be restartable following a capsize. Stable in a seaway (and deployable when the mothership is doing 5 knots), rescue boats may be either rigid or inflated and need to be operable in water that is 1-30°C. They also need to be able to start in -30°C air temperature.

First adopted in 1914, the SOLAS Convention was initiated as a direct response to the Titanic disaster. The Convention in use today is often referred to as the “SOLAS, 1974, as amended”. 

For any help and advice relating to SOLAS requirements, contact our team who have a depth of knowledge on the subject.

SOLAS Lifeboats

✓ Rigid ✓ Stow Unlike a SOLAS Rescue Vessel that can be inflatable or rigid hull, a lifeboat must have the latter.

Painted bright orange—or Pantone 144—a lifeboat can have a LOA no less than 7.3m.

Sports Fisher

✓ Rigid ✓ Tow

A close relative of both the Central Console and High-performance categories, a Sports Fisher is a dedicated recreational fishing boat. Despite the wide range of boats within this category, the Flybridge Sports Fisher is the most synonymous with the name. 

Large boats, often up to 25m, the archetypal fisher is perfectly suited to lengthy, deep-sea fishing trips. Typically built with berths, heads, a galley and a tower (perhaps even a live bait tank, too), a Sports Fsher is for serious big game fishing enthusiasts.

It’s quite a commitment for a superyacht when a large open or utility tender with rod holders would probably be just as effective if big game fishing was less of a priority.

Utility Tender

✓ Rigid Inflatable ✓ Inflatable ✓ Open ✓ Chase ✓ Catamaran ✓ Dive ✓ Tow or stow

A utility tender is the most versatile boat on the list. Ticking almost every box, a utility boat is somewhat open to interpretation. As much an entire category as it is an individual tender, a utility boat could easily take the form of a landing craft or open RIB.

Both promote an open deck space and satisfy the needs of crew in all manner of tasks, including the general movement of equipment and vehicles, refuge and provision runs, and guest and crew transfers.

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Tenders & Yacht Dinghies

In addition to your main yacht, sailboat or catamaran,, cadet roll up.

Inflatable dinghy with wooden slatted floor

Its floor, in a wooden slat design, can be rolled and stored in seconds.

Inflatable dinghy with inflatable floor

Very simple and above all really compact! Completely flexible, including the floor, it can be folded and stored in less than 2 minutes in a suitable bag!

CADET RIB ALU

RIB dinghy with aluminium hull

A truly solid-hull dinghy (aluminium), which provides the best in stability and safety on board!

Inflatable dinghy with aluminium floor

An aluminium floor, which can be put in place in no time for maximum stability.

Nomad RIB Alu

New tenders with a double floor, waterproof storage, and top-quality tubes!

CADET RIB ALU DL

Its biggest asset is its locker: Your backpack or today’s picnic will fit in just fine…

The smallest Open

Ideal for a first boat with room for 4 people on board, it is easy to manoeuvre and tow. Ideal for small budgets.

The ideal electric dinghy

Whether used as a dinghy or a funky little boat, this 3.4 is more environmentally friendly than ever and requires no maintenance.

Ideal dinghy or small robust boat

The 3.4 is sure to please: Easy to steer, 3 large storage lockers! A true little racing kart that will delight you and your guests.

YACHTLINE 360

The smallest Yachtline

An ideal size to accommodate 4 people on board, with a maximum power of 40 HP, it can carry its passengers at high speed.

YACHTLINE 400

Well equipped

The Yachtline 400 can carry 5 passengers with its 3 seats and 50 HP.

The smallest Pro

A traditional model, it has always been part of the Zodiac range.

Unbeatable value for money

Ideal model for fishing and cruising with family or friends with its 4 large seats that can accommodate 6 people on board and its large lockers.

YACHTLINE 440

The right compromise

The ideal complement to transport 6 people, with its numerous storage lockers and its 60 HP.

The biggest of the compact Open

A generous power output of up to 80 CV is a big asset, and it is ergonomic and spacious for comfortable and active days out.

YACHTLINE 490

The biggest

At 4.90m and 90 HP, it can be used as a main boat for up to 9 people. It can also tow water-skiers or wakeboarders.

OUR NAVIGATION PROGRAMS

Are you looking for a tender or dinghy model for your yacht, sailboat or catamaran? The choice of boat will depend on your intended use, frequency of trips, sailing areas and your expectations. Choose a comfortable, innovative and powerful boat that you can accessorise according to your taste and needs. You will already have basic equipment: lifting and towing rings, bench, paddles or oars, many handles … for the comfort of the pilot and the passengers. The design of your dinghy will perfectly match your yacht thanks to its elegant aesthetics. Your RIB dinghy guarantees you excellent performance, great sailing comfort and spaciousness for regular use. Its sturdiness ensures greater safety at sea where the weather is particularly unpredictable.

Versatility

Yacht dinghies serve you both as lifeboats or support boats to get the pilot, crew and guests to land or shore, but also as leisure crafts due to their versatility. The size and engine of the tender mean it can be used as a pleasure boat for sea trips with friends or family; from 4 metres upwards for the larger models. So go and explore some beautiful places. The finish and quality of the accessories ensure the longevity of your boat.

Power and agility

In our range, you will find 100% electric tenders like the eOpen, but also ones with hydrojet propulsion, such as the eJet. This modern technology, which uses a turbine to draw in water and propel it quickly to move the boat forward, offers a more fun and agile way to steer. Compared to an outboard boat with a propeller engine, waterjet propulsion offers greater safety, the ability to sail in shallow water and faster acceleration.

Tender models with rigid hulls such as the CADET RIB ALU, the small OPEN, the eOPEN, or the Yachtline provide you with more stability at sea, even in difficult weather conditions. This gives you more space on board for passengers and storage.

ALL CAPABILITIES

• Boats for 4 people and above
• Boats for 6 people and above
• Boats for 10 people and above
• Boats for 14 people and above
• Boats for 20 people and above
• Tenders from 2 to 3 meters
• Boats from 4 to 6 meters
• Boats from 6 to 8 meters
• Boats from 8 meters boats and above

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Boat & Ship Name Generator (with Tips)

• Updated: August 13, 2023

Our Boat Name Generator combines linguistic data, nautical traditions, and your personal preferences to generate the ideal name for your boat.

Whether you’re looking for something classic, witty, or funny, our generator is here to inspire you.

How to Use our Boat Name Generator

• Choose Your Boat Type: Whether it’s a sailboat, fishing boat, speedboat, or a luxury yacht, selecting the type of boat you have can influence the naming suggestions.
• Provide Important Words: Have any words that are significant to you? Maybe it’s a loved one’s name, a favorite destination, or a sentiment you want to convey. Feed those keywords into our generator, and watch it craft names tailored to your inputs.
• Select Your Preferences: Want something witty? Or perhaps you’re after a traditional maritime name? Let us know your style preference, and our generator will align its suggestions accordingly.
• Generate Names: Once you’ve entered your details, hit the ‘Generate Names’ button. In a few moments, you’ll be presented with a list of potential boat names that match your criteria.
• Pick Your Favorite: Go through the list and pick the one that resonates with you the most. Remember, the best boat name is one that feels right to you.

Why is the Boat Name Important?

A boat’s name is more than just a label. It often carries personal significance, reflecting the owner’s passions, memories, or hopes for their adventures.

It might honor loved ones, convey a sense of humor, or express the dream that inspired boat ownership in the first place. A well-chosen name adds character to your boat and makes it truly yours.

900+ Great Boat Names: Ideas for Everyone

Tips for the perfect boat name.

• Keep it Short and Sweet: Shorter names are easier to read when your boat is in motion and simpler to communicate over the radio.
• Make it Personal: The best names often have personal significance, reflecting the owner’s interests, life events, or maritime aspirations.
• Consider Pronunciation: Make sure the name is easy to pronounce.
• Test it Out: Before finalizing, say the name out loud, write it down, and maybe even share it with friends and family. Feedback can be invaluable.

With our Boat Name Generator, finding the perfect name for your boat has never been easier. We hope this tool helps you quickly identify a name that feels just right.

Happy boating!

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9 most common problems with sun tracker pontoons, 9 common problems with vexus boats (+ where to get help).

ShipNameGenerator

Ship Name Generator

Generate fantastic ship name using AI

How to Use it?

• Visit our "Ship Name Generator" website.
• Enter Names: Provide the names of two individuals you want to create a ship name for. They can be real-life couples, fictional characters, or any two people with a bond.
• Click the "Generate" button to generate ship names. The generator will create several ship name options based on your input.
• View the generated ship names, then select your favorite one.
• If you don't like the ship names already generated, click "Generate" again to get a new round of ship name suggestions.
• Once you've chosen a satisfactory ship name, you can use it to refer to your relationship or as a unique identifier for social media accounts.

How Does It Work?

• Our AI ship name generator combines elements like the syllables and initials of both names, utilizes intelligent combination algorithms, and customizes a unique nickname for your relationship. Whether it's couples, friends, or business partners, it blends the characteristics of both names together, creating a call sign that is full of individuality and meaning.
• We value privacy protection. Names are only used to generate ship names and not for any other purpose. You can select your favorite name from our suggestions.
• We hope this little assistant can become a special memento of your relationship, recording every bit along the way. Choose a thoughtful name and embark on beautiful memories from now on!

Why Use Our Ship Name Generator?

• Discover Unique and Memorable Name Combinations Reflecting Your Relationship's Personality: Our generator can provide a variety of name combinations within seconds. You can choose the most special one to serve as a symbol for your relationship.
• Save Time by Quickly Generating Multiple Name Options: No need to invest time and effort in creating names manually. With just a click of a button, you can receive several name suggestions, keeping the inspiration flowing continuously.
• Combine Names in Different Ways to Find the Perfect Name Matching Your Relationship: We offer various ways to combine names, such as using initials, common words, and more. You can test different matches and select the ship name that best suits you.
• Effortlessly Create Personalized and Meaningful ship Names: We automatically combine the names and nicknames of both individuals, sparing you the trouble of designing them yourself. The generator directly produces ship names in multiple styles.
• Spark Creativity and Imagination with Unique Name Combinations: The various combinations provided by the generator can inspire your creativity, resulting in more imaginative ship names.
• Celebrate Love and Deepen the Bond Between Two Individuals: Whether for fictional characters or real-life couples, our tool can create ship names with significant meaning, serving as a testament to your love.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Ship Name

• Consider personalities, interests, and backgrounds: Choose a name that reflects the personalities, interests, and cultural backgrounds of both individuals, representing your relationship more effectively.
• Reflect the essence of the connection: Select a name that embodies the unique aspects of your relationship. Consider how your relationship stands out and name it based on that distinctiveness.
• Consider the tone and style of the name: Think about the feelings and style you want the name to convey, ensuring it accurately represents your relationship.
• Experiment with different naming options: Don't rush into a decision; try multiple options to find a name that best represents your unique bond.
• Meaning and storytelling: Choose a name related to your shared experiences or significant moments, creating a meaningful and memorable name.
• Easy to understand and pronounce: Ensure that the chosen name is easy for others to understand and pronounce for effective communication and memorization.
• Uniqueness and personalization: Strive for a unique name, incorporating nicknames or special experiences to create a personalized touch.
• Avoid negative or ambiguous words: Make sure the chosen name has no negative connotations and won't lead to misunderstandings or negative associations.

These comprehensive suggestions will help you find a perfect name that is meaningful and reflects the unique features of your relationship.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - Ship Name Generator

1. What is the Ship Name Generator?

The Ship Name Generator is an inventive online resource crafted to blend the names of two individuals - be they cherished fictional characters or endearing real-life couples - to forge a distinctive ship name. This creative tool is a celebration of the unique connection and affection shared by the individuals whose names are amalgamated.

2. Can I use the ship names for fictional characters or real-life couples?

Absolutely! Our Ship Name Generator is a versatile tool, perfectly suited for conjuring names for fictional characters from a myriad of sources like books, movies, and TV shows, as well as for real-life couples, friends, or any duo sharing a meaningful bond.

3. Is the Ship Name Generator free to use?

Indeed, our Ship Name Generator is entirely complimentary. It's a free-to-use resource for all, requiring no fees or subscriptions to access its full capabilities.

4. Can I share the generated ship names with others?

Definitely! We encourage you to share your uniquely generated ship names with friends, fellow enthusiasts of beloved fictional duos, or even the real-life couples themselves.

5. Are the ship names suitable for fan fiction or creative writing?

Absolutely! The ship names you generate can infuse fan fiction, creative writing, or any artistic endeavor featuring your chosen individuals with a personal and sentimental touch.

6. Can I modify the generated ship names if I want to?

Certainly! Consider the generated ship names as a creative springboard. Feel free to tweak or personalize them to more accurately reflect the essence of the individuals and the nature of their relationship.

7. Can I use the ship names for commercial purposes?

The ship names created with our tool are intended primarily for personal and creative expression. If you're considering their commercial use, we recommend ensuring you possess the necessary rights and permissions to do so.

8. Can I use the ship names in my social media or online presence?

Absolutely! Feel free to use the ship names in your social media profiles, fan accounts, or any online platforms where you celebrate the connection between the represented individuals.

Vessels Database

Ais ship positions.

Officials ID bodies found days after boat crash off Old Saybrook

Published september 7, 2024 • updated on september 7, 2024 at 7:32 pm.

Officials have identified the two bodies that were found on Friday after days of searching. The men had been missing since a boat crash off Old Saybrook on Monday night.

Department of Energy and Environmental Protection EnCon Police said they located the body of one man around 12:10 p.m. on Friday. They said search crews located the body of the other missing boater around 4:30 p.m.

Free 24/7 Connecticut news stream: Watch NBC CT wherever you are

The men have been identified by DEEP as 25-year-old Ian Duchemin, of Oakdale, and 24-year-old Ryan Britagna, of Waterford. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will determine each of their cause and manner of death.

Nine friends were returning after spending Labor Day on Block Island when the 31-foot motorboat they were in hit a jetty around 9:15 p.m. Monday, according to DEEP officials.

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Christopher Hallahan, 34, of Westbrook, was found dead in the vessel , according to authorities. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined that he drowned and ruled his death an accident.

Six other people who were on the boat were taken to the hospital and one of them is in critical condition, Connecticut Environmental Police Captain Keith Williams said Tuesday morning.

Officials believe that person was driving the boat, but they have not confirmed that.

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Officials said the people who were on the boat have ties to the local community.

The capsized boat was recovered from the river around 11:30 a.m. Tuesday.

Several agencies, including police and fire crews from several nearby towns, the State Police Dive Unit, and a helicopter from the U.S. Coast Guard station on Cape Cod have been involved in the search for the missing boaters for several days.

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Shhh! Ohtani chase kept quiet by design

Blue jays stay tightlipped in pursuit, while dodgers manager admits to their meeting.

Keegan Matheson

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Silence is golden and secrecy is sublime. 

Standing in the eye of the biggest, boldest pursuit in franchise history, the Blue Jays aren’t saying a word. Even the name “ Shohei Ohtani ” is spoken carefully, each syllable tiptoeing gently to the next. 

Don’t rock the boat. Don’t wake the baby.

The secrecy with which baseball’s brightest star lives his life has taken over his free agency, which is bubbling to a boil here at the Winter Meetings. Earlier this offseason, ESPN’s Jeff Passan reported that it would be “held against” potential suitors if news leaked that he’d visited a specific team.

Well, it’s happening.

Every good drama has a shocking confession, and this one came from Dodgers manager Dave Roberts on Tuesday afternoon, admitting that he and members of Los Angeles’ front office had met with Ohtani in recent days. It all went very well, the veteran manager thought, and besides, the news would get out eventually.

“Clearly,” Roberts said, “ Shohei is our top priority .”

This was a wailing siren through the silence, because even following reports that Ohtani had toured Toronto’s training facilities in Dunedin, Fla., over the weekend, the Blue Jays refused to give that fire any oxygen, instead letting it live as a detail and nothing more.

Soon after Roberts dropped that nugget, though, Dodgers general manager Brandon Gomes stood before a throng of cameras -- less than 50 feet from Blue Jays GM Ross Atkins doing the same -- and struck a much different tone. Gomes acknowledged the comment made by his manager, said he was surprised that it was made and went no further. No comments on Ohtani, no comments on a meeting that may or may not have happened. 

That toothpaste isn’t going back in the tube.

Across the room, Atkins spoke vaguely, dancing in the shadows between questions. It’s the same approach he took Monday, when his in-person media availability was suddenly shifted to Zoom , where the GM was cryptic with details as he sat in front of a blank, white wall, refusing to answer where in the world he was. 

“Everything that we’re doing to make the team better, to the extent that we will keep private, we will do,” Atkins said. “Meetings that occur, don’t occur, I’m not going to get into the specifics of.”

It’s remarkable to watch this happen in real time, a big league GM sidestepping questions not as standard practice, but as an act of strategy that fans are suddenly praising. There’s an elephant in the room, but Atkins will not confirm whether elephants do or do not exist. 

“There’s an incredible amount of energy, an incredible amount of buzz around the game and around several potential opportunities, certainly one that is historic, potentially,” Atkins said.

Atkins is built for this game. He’s the Shohei Ohtani of secrecy.

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The Blue Jays’ GM went as far as saying that they are “fortunate to be one that’s being considered,” but offered no details about the reported visit to the club’s player development complex over the weekend.

Manager John Schneider did the same, saying “we meet with lots of players” and sticking to the script throughout his media availability. When a reporter joked that Schneider looked tanned when asking about his whereabouts and involvement in said meeting, Schneider just cracked another smile.

“I live in Florida,” he said.

The logic and logistics of it all point toward a decision coming soon from Ohtani. The Blue Jays and Dodgers are clearly among the front-runners here, and while it’s unclear what impact Roberts’ revelation and recent reports will have on Ohtani’s decision, these two clubs are clearly involved in the final sprint. Others, including the Giants, Cubs and Angels, have also widely been linked to this historic chase. 

When this news breaks, the landscape of Major League Baseball will tilt in an instant. Until then, it’s one of the biggest secrets in baseball history and the Blue Jays aren’t making a sound.