AB Inflatables, new model- Mares 10
by Mike Orsmond on 19 May 2013
10 VSX2 SW
AB Inflatables saw the need to provide a new generation of light weight, 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 meters and with a hull weight (fibre glass) of 119 kilograms allowing the Mares 10 to get on the water under 200 kilograms, fitted with a 20hp four stroke motor.
The new design is not a kit boat. It has a fully moulded deck with comfortable seating for 4 adults. With a 20hp (four stroke) it will plane four people. For those that 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.
With all of this, looks were not ignored and it is a fine looking AB. It has all the features expected of a leading brand . Some of these features are stainless steel wheel, LED navigation lights, stern light, bilge pump, loads of storage, grab rails etc with provisions for optional extras.
AB have reduced the weight by using modern composite technology and at the same time maintained the solid structural build that they were well known for. This includes incorporating stringers in the hull construction. AB maintain their traditional large tubes made with the best hypalon, proper hypalon fittings and the best quality valves.
The same stringent safety considerations that AB are renown for and which have given AB their reputation as the manufacturers of the safest RIBs, are applied on the Mares 10 ensuring good safe boating.
AB Inflatables are dominant suppliers of premium RIBs in America and internationally. The new Mares range will add to their profile.
Orders for 36 x Mares 10 were received prior to the Mares being released at the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show and since then many more orders have been received and many delivered. The first delivery of the Mares 10 in Australia was to a new Riviera and more orders are due to be filled as soon as they arrive. The Mares 10 is a success story.
AB are expanding the Mare range and a new model will follow shortly. The Mares 10 are available from RIB Force Inflatables on the Gold Coast and Boating Connexions in Sydney.
More at www.RIBforce.com
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