Testing Three Interactor RIBs in the North Sea
I had the opportunity to test three Interactor models: the 420, 640 and 680, all configured for professional use.
It was a beautiful day in Nieuwpoort-Bad, Belgium, with waves reaching around one metre. An ideal combination for testing these RIBs.
During the two-kilometre passage through the harbour channel, Tim and Silke introduced me to the specifications and history of the brand (see below). Both are partners in the company behind Interactor.
Once Offshore, We Could Really Open the Throttles
Although all three RIBs performed extremely well, the 680 was my clear favourite.
Its proven hull sliced confidently through the waves. Even in sharp turns, there was no cavitation.
The boat responded immediately and precisely to every change of direction. It felt like riding a train on rails.
The smaller 640 was equally convincing. Its well-established Tornado hull earned plenty of praise in the past, and it certainly didn’t disappoint this time either.
The little 420 was tremendous fun to drive.
By then, we had already covered quite some distance at sea. Time flies when you’re having fun!
With the sea conditions in mind, we took a controlled approach on the return journey.
A RIB of this size demands careful handling in waves like these. Yet I could easily imagine the 420 being deployed during floods and evacuations. It’s remarkably manoeuvrable, practical and quick to deploy.
Slideshow
Tubes
Another interesting detail is the tube material. No Hypalon. No PVC.
Interactor exclusively uses welded polyurethane (PU), offering exceptional abrasion resistance, colour retention and durability.
Only a handful of manufacturers worldwide produce PU tubes, and Interactor is one of them.
The trials also attracted international interest, and this wasn’t the first time.
Following the Sea Trials
Afterwards, we spent time discussing the boats.
I find these conversations just as valuable and interesting as the sea trials themselves. Questions were raised, observations exchanged and technical details discussed.
Tim and Silke answered every question, providing clear explanations that left the interested visitors thoroughly satisfied.
Worth Mentioning
Multraship has relied on Interactor RIBs for many years now, and since 2024, Interactor has been the official contracted supplier to the Belgian coastal rescue services.
All specifications of the three tested RIBs can be found below.
And one final thought: I can’t wait to test Interactor’s larger models. As we speak, the range extends all the way to 12.3 metres.
About the Brand
Interactor Boats is the new European name for boats previously sold as Tornado.
They’re still built in the same Chinese factory, by the same experienced team, with the same materials.
After Tornado Denmark tried to bring production to Denmark, the brand faced quality issues and delays.
The company entered bankruptcy proceedings in 2025. Interactor brings the well-known quality again on the European market sourced from the original factory with finishing facilities based in Belgium under the new name Interactor.
Proud to share that Interactor is a Friend of RIBs ONLY.
Related reading: What Is a Rigid Inflatable Boat? · What Size RIB Do I Need? · How to Choose an Outboard for a RIB · Professional and Rescue RIBs Explained