The All New ADV7 from Highfield Boats: Is it a RIB?

Karel Overlaet, RIB Advocate

The ADV7 from Highfield

What I can say is that it’s not your average rib. Not your typical Highfield.

Based on the video above and the photos provided to me, I see similarities to a RIB, but also differences.

It seems that the air-filled tubes serve a different purpose, as they are positioned high above the waterline.

It’s a type of crossover, as this model is prominently featured with its own dedicated menu button on the company’s website.

ADV7 from HighfieldADV7 from Highfield
ADV7 from Highfield

Its deep-V hull, expertly crafted with vacuum-infused composite by the award-winning Vom Designs, guarantees exceptional performance and handling.

The company already designing a bold, modern console for Highfield’s Patrol boat collection.

According to the press release, powered by a 150hp engine, this ADV7 from Highfield effortlessly surpasses 30 knots—and with a 250hp, it rockets to nearly 50 knots.

And the Adv7’s tube offers unmatched security and buoyancy—rarely found in the adventure boat market, so the info states.

Proud to share that Highfield is a good Friend of RIBs ONLY.

Photos of the ADV7 from Highfield

Specs

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Winter RIBbing : 7 Important Lessons Learned (For Free)

Karel Overlaet, RIB Advocate
Winter RIBbing by Fraser and Erika Mackie @ RIBs ONLY - Home of the Rigid Inflatable Boat
Winter RIBbing – Erika Mackie at he helm

By Fraser Mackie and Erika Mackie.

Preface

The RIBs ONLY Facebook group is a treasure trove of engaging posts and discussions.

Members eagerly share their experiences and adventures, showcasing RIBs of all sizes—because, let’s face it, they’re all amazing!

Recently, Fraser and Erika Mackie contributed a fascinating firsthand account of how to venture out on a RIB during winter. Here’s their story.

7 Winter RIBbing Experiences (with Photos)

It was our first run out of the year on Great White, probably second coldest day out we’ve had.

The trip went along the West Coast of Scotland. Dunstaffnage, North through Sound of Mull today Salen in Loch Sunart.

We stopped in Tibermory on Mull (island) for coffee and cake and back home.

  • Things take longer when it’s cold, from getting ready for the drive, defrosting the hitch lock, accepting that the roller shutter on the 4×4 isn’t going to open.
  • The painter tied off on the samson post will freeze and be VERY hard to get off.
  • Wear layers, many layers, don’t have bare skin exposed.
  • Break ice off deck before refuelling so you don’t slip and slide.
  • Bilge pumps don’t work when frozen, use the elephants trunk, a couple of buckets of salt water helps.
  • Power steering WILL make weird noises for a while.
  • Make sure you stop by and say Happy New Year to friends, but BEFORE you launch or AFTER you recover the boat.

If you can survive the cold, the awkwardly frozen bilge pumps, and the power steering screams, you’re officially a RIBbing legend!

Enjoy Their Great Winter Ribbing Photos

RIB Trip Suggestions

Belgium

Are you interested in exploring Belgium and abroad? Take a look at these posts and magazines from the Belgian Pneumaticlub for inspiration and insights!

Italy

Check out these Italian magazines from the Club del Gommone to get inspired.

The Grand Golden Line G850 Revealed

Karel Overlaet, RIB Advocate

The Grand Golden Line G850

This Rigid Inflatable Boat 8.6 m long and 2.95 m wide, featuring inflatable tubes that make it trailerable when deflated. It is the brands flagship in this model range as we speak.

Its stern platforms include a ladder and shower.

The deck, coated in CDEC for enhanced grip, offers versatile layouts with ample storage.

A central kitchen block includes a sink and space for an optional cooktop or storage.

The dual helm seats have independent boosters, and the spacious helm is highly customizable.

Front storage doubles as a 1.70 m standing-height changing room.

The bow sunbed has storage, recessed safety rails, and an optional windlass camera.

A fiberglass bow platform with non-slip coating and mooring cleats ensures secure boarding.

The Grand Golden Line G850 excels in comfort, safety, and user-friendly solo operation with its wide walkways.

I’ve posted more videos of this brand. So if you’re interested, click here.

This video was published on The Sea Team – CarloLuongo YouTube channel

Specs

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GALA A360Q with Electrical Tohatsu Alaris 6

Karel Overlaet, RIB Advocate

The Practical Tender GALA A360Q

The video showcases a short test ride of the GALA Atlantis A360Q RIB. The video as such shows mainly the boat’s manoeuvrability.

The GALA Atlantis A360Q is a 12-foot (3.6-meter) Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB) featuring an aluminum hull and Aquahelm steering console, designed for lightweight agility.

It is powered by a Tohatsu Alaris 6.electrical outboard motor.

This combination is interesting for recreational and practical use like a tender.

This video was published on the GALA INFLATABLE BOATS YouTube channel.

If you’re intetested in this brand, check out these videos as well.

Specs

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Technohull Alpha 50 Expand Your World

Karel Overlaet, RIB Advocate

The Huge Technohull Alpha 50

“Where bold design meets unbeatable performance.”

This video showcases the sleek elegance, expansive deck space, and luxurious lounging areas of the Alpha 50.

It’s a crossover, a boat between a RIB and a yacht. I wrote another piece on other maxi RIBs that are 50 ft or 15 meter long or more here.

The Greek company with great people is located here. It claims that it’s more than a boat.

“It’s your gateway to comfort, style, and adventure.”

If you’re eager to see more video of RIBs built by Technohull, go for it!

This video was published on the Technohull YouTube channel.

Specs

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