Jelmer from BOWT Watersport introduces the AQUASPIRIT S700, a seven-meter aluminum RIB designed for exceptional strength, space, and performance.
Originating from AQUASPIRIT’s Ukrainian defense expertise, the S700 features a full aluminum hull with 30 cm D-shaped tubes, maximizing interior width to two meters.
The double-welded 4 mm hull ensures rigidity and buoyancy, while its deep V-shape delivers stability in all waters.
Powered up to 250 hp, it reaches over 100 km/h and carries eleven passengers.
Customizable options include hardtop, seating layouts, and luxury additions like Hypalon tubes, SeaDek flooring, Raymarine systems, and LED lighting.
It is not my habit to post low-resolution videos. This one is 480p instead of 1080p or 2160p.
I make an exception here because pure RIB races of that size seem almost extinct today.
The video has neither subtitles nor transcript. With AI, however, I was able to create the following text.
If you want to know how I did it, I have described the process below.
The Race Comments
The fourth race by O.F.S.E. of the Greek Offshore Championship took place on 17 September 2006 in Athens. It was organized by the Hellenic RIB Club: O.F.S.E. (Hellenic Inflatable Boats Association, website).
A total of 49 boats participated, setting a new record since the competition began in 1994.
Here are the main differences between gasoline and diesel boat engines a.o. the performance.
Gasoline engines prioritize speed and acceleration. They use spark ignition to deliver quick, high-RPM performance. This is ideal for lightweight recreational boats and fast weekend cruising.
Diesel engines focus on torque and efficiency. They rely on compression ignition to generate powerful low-end thrust. This makes them especially suited for heavy-duty, commercial, or military applications. The torque is the key performance.
Gas engines are lighter and rev higher. They are perfect for planing hulls that skim water. Diesel engines are heavier. They typically stay in displacement mode.
Diesel outboards are stronger internally. They have reinforced pistons and cylinder walls to handle extreme pressure. This adds durability but also significant weight and cost that impact performance.
Torque output is much higher in diesel. Models like the Cox CXO300 produce 650Nm at low RPM. This is ideal for pushing heavy hulls through waves and rough water.
Gasoline outboards excel in recreational use. They stay light on the transom for better balance. This makes trailering easier and improves responsive handling, especially in boats under 25 feet.
Diesel’s weight creates issues on small boats. It affects trim, stability, and safety. Often, it requires upgraded trailers, lifting gear, and reinforced hull structures.
Maintenance and ownership differ greatly. Gas engines are simpler and cheaper to service. Diesel engines require specialized tools and training. They also need more expensive repairs.
Diesel engines cost significantly more. Units like the Cox CXO300 are often priced $20,000 higher than comparable gas models for the same horsepower rating (according to this video).
Fuel economy favors diesel. It burns 20–30% less fuel per hour and lasts longer under constant use. However, savings take decades for casual boaters to realize.
Gasoline won early due to accessibility. It dominated marinas, supply chains, and consumer familiarity. This happened long before diesel outboards became small enough to compete.
Diesel thrives in fleet operations. Uptime, long service intervals, and shared fuel logistics make it perfect for patrol boats. It is also ideal for offshore vessels and military craft.
Gasoline leads innovation today. Four-stroke engines are gaining cleaner emissions, digital controls, and smart integration. Diesel progresses more slowly due to niche demand.
Performance
There you have it. When it comes to performance and choosing the ‘better’ engine, it all depends on your intended use.
Electric Outboards
They’re not taking the market by storm.
Even though electric outboards offer quiet, “clean” operation they struggle with limited range, high battery costs, and slow charging.
These drawbacks, combined with current performance gaps, prevent them from dominating the boating market—especially for larger vessels.
The 2025 Inishbofin Rib Run concluded as a resounding success, blending adventure, camaraderie, and philanthropy against the stunning backdrop of Ireland’s western coastline.
This annual event was organised to raise funds for Cancer Care West.
It brought together 57 boats and nearly 200 participants from across the country.
They were united by a shared passion for boating and community impact.
Participants of this Inishbofin RIB Run navigated a breathtaking 93-nautical-mile route.
They weaved past iconic landmarks such as the dramatic Cliffs of Turk. They also passed the rugged Bill’s Rock and historic Black Rock Lighthouse.
The fleet explored the serene islands of Inish Kea, Clare Island, Inishturk, and Inishbofin.
They made a stop at Achill Island’s picturesque Keem Bay.
Covering such a vast distance in a single day highlighted the participants’ dedication.
The favourable weather also played a crucial role. This was a “fantastic bonus” celebrated by organisers.
Record Participation and Fundraising Milestone
This year’s Rib Run marked its largest turnout yet, with 57 boats carrying enthusiastic passengers.
The event’s true triumph, however, lay in its fundraising achievement.
It raised € 12,430 for Cancer Care West.
This is a Galway-based charity providing vital support to cancer patients and their families.
The announcement followed a brief delay as organisers finalised contributions, including last-minute donations received the morning of the reveal.
David O’Connell of Cancer Care West expressed profound gratitude, emphasising how the funds will directly enhance their services.
Over its three-year history, the Rib Run has donated an impressive € 32,197 to the charity.
This reflects the boating community’s unwavering generosity.
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