Stepped Hull Explained: Efficiency, Comfort & Top Speed

Tech-talk by Goldfish: What’s a Stepped Hull

A stepped hull is a specialized hull design engineered to reduce drag, increase speed, and improve ride quality.

In this video, the team at Goldfish explains how stepped hulls work. They discuss why this technology plays a central role in the way they build their boats.

A stepped hull uses raised panels that draw in air to reduce friction and create a lubricating air-cushion effect.

This design improves efficiency by letting water detach and reattach smoothly as the boat moves across each panel.

A low angle of attack lets the hull pierce water cleanly and dissipate forces before they reach passengers.

The boat skims across waves at shallower angles, improving comfort, stability, and speed even in changing sea conditions.

Continuous in-house testing ensures each hull is uniquely engineered for its intended performance. It highlights the need for skilled high-speed operation.


This video was published on the Goldfish Boat AS YouTube channel.

Got more videos of these Norwegian RIBs: Here they are.

Nautica Gaglione Gaillot 92.5: Test at Sea!

Gaillot 92.5 By The Sea Team

The Nautica Gaglione 92.5 was tested with twin 200-horsepower Mercury V6 engines. Sea conditions combined short and long waves, creating a demanding environment.

The hull behaved softly, and the deck stayed consistently dry. At economical cruising speed, the boat held 24 knots with low fuel consumption.

Synchronized engines provided balanced thrust and smooth handling. Trim adjustments helped keep the bow level during acceleration.

High-speed trials reached nearly 50 knots despite rough water. Structural noise stayed minimal even during tight turns.

Test Data

Model: Nautica Gaglione Gaillot 92.5
RPMSpeed (knots)Consumption (l/h total)
6002.84.5
11505.49.6
16006.814.5
20008.4821.9
33001724
325024.235
38503049
44003556
480039.570
570047117
580049.5134
(source, data may vary)

This video was published on The Sea Team YouTube channel.

Here’s another video I could post so far.

I added this brand to the list of RIBs presented on RIBsONLY.com: it’s number 279! By the way, you can find all the brands on this page I created for you: overview.

Specs

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ADV9 – Highfield’s First Cabin Boat Ever

The Brand New ADV9

Highfield launches its first cabin boat, a compact innovative RIB offering comfortable sleeping space for two and redefining adventure boating.

This ADV9 is a cross-over between a RIB and a fiber glass boat.

Visit the website highfields.com to see the impressive range of many more other models.

New ADV9 has its exterior and interior design done by VOM Creations Yacht Design. Engineering was in the hands of by Alpha Creations & Naval Justin.

Credits for this video: Felipe Gómez, Designer / Marine visualizer


This video was published on the RIBs ONLY YouTube channel.

Watch more existing news about the 2025 ADV7:

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

Ribelle R6 – Full Sea Trial and Test Results

The Ribelle R6 on the Water

The Italian built Ribelle R6 was powered by a Mercury 40 Pro. It was tested off Torre del Greco.

In Italy you don’t need a license below 40 hp. I don’t understand why…

According to the video, conditions were calm but gradually changed in the afternoon.

The boat showed excellent stability at rest and during displacement thanks to its large Orca-fabric tubes.

The hull’s chines ensured dry, soft navigation, excellent grip in tight turns, and no cavitation.

The Test Results

Condition / Speed StageRPMKnotsFuel Consumption (l/h)Trim / Handling Notes
Initial readings6001,70,8Minimum throttle, smooth, stable
Planing entry34009,77,1Slight bow lift, smooth transition to planing
Intermediate cruise400014,710Stable cruise, slight trim adjustment
Two people aboard520021,813,7Moderate trim, smooth handling in turns
Top speed61002621,640% trim, stable, soft impact on waves

This video was published on The Sea Team YouTube channel.

I’ve posted a walkthrough video of this RIB here: On Board RibElle R6 a New RIB Brand.

Want to watch more reviews by The Sea Team? Here they are.

Proud to share that ORCA Retail is a Friend of RIBs ONLY.

Italboats X8 – Layout, Design, and Features Explained

Discover the X8 RIB

The Italboats X8 is an 8,54-meter Rigid Inflatable Boat with a 3,2-meter beam and fully trailerable when deflated.

This RIB is powered by a Suzuki DF300 AP, supporting 250 to 450 hp in either single or twin-engine configurations.

The aft platform includes integrated swim ladders, EVA decking for grip, and low maintenance surfaces for safe boarding and movement.

The engine compartment remains fully accessible, while storage options include liftable benches and multiple compartments for equipment and personal belongings.

The cockpit is highly customizable. It features lateral seats and a central helm.

There is a multifunction display and T-top protection offers sun and wind protection.

The bow area allows unobstructed movement, with large storage, optional WC, and convertible sunpads for relaxation or leisure use.

Safety and handling are enhanced by strategically placed handholds, reinforced rub rails, and thoughtfully designed walking surfaces throughout the boat.

To me it looks like the layout is almost complete.


This video was published on the The Sea Team YouTube channel.

More of this Italian brand, I’ve posted this for you.

Specs

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