Highfield North American Dealer Meeting – Chicago 2026

October 03 2026October 04 2026 Karel Overlaet, RIB Advocate

Highfield Took Its Dealer Meeting to Chicago

Highfield Boats just dropped a short recap video from its 2026 North American Dealer Meeting, and this year the crew moved the party to Chicago.

For years the event lived in Cadillac, Michigan, close to the factory. It simply got too big.

The video itself is quick and upbeat.

You see dealers and partners from the US and Canada mingling, checking out new RIBs, and generally having a good time on the water. Think networking, product demos, a dinner, and the usual competitive cornhole.

Nothing deep here, just a thank you to the people who sell their boats. Still, a nice look at a brand that keeps growing.

This video was published on the Highfield Boats YouTube channel.

Highfield is a brand that also produces many videos. I made a broad selection here for you to enjoy.

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

Master 996 RIB Test With Twin Yamaha 350 V6

September 12 2026September 17 2026 Karel Overlaet, RIB Advocate

Master 996 Tested at 25, 30 and 35 Knots With Twin Yamaha 350s

At Marina di Castellammare del Golfo, Italy, Francesco van NonsolomareTV took the Master 996 out with massive twin Yamaha V6 350 hp outboards.

The test focused on everyday cruising speeds around 25, 30 and 35 knots, while also examining fuel consumption from the two 4.3-litre engines.

The 9.96-metre RIB measures 3.38 metres wide and weighs around two tonnes, with generous seating, storage and sunbathing areas.

Its layout includes a galley, refrigerator, sink, helm electronics, joystick control, VHF, chartplotter and a forward cabin with a double berth and toilet.

The walkthrough also covered the bathing platforms, folding table, adjustable helm seating, bow lounging area, anchor system and practical access to onboard storage.

This video was published on the NonsolomareTV YouTube channel.

I’ve published more video of this Italian RIB brand: check them out.

There are lots of Italian RIB brands. If you’re interested you can find all active RIB builders here: RIBManufacturerList

Specs

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Understanding RIBs: Why This Design Works So Well

September 10 2026September 10 2026 Karel Overlaet, RIB Advocate

Gemini WR 650 and WR 1060 Leisure Versions @ RIBs ONLY - Home of the Rigid Inflatable Boat — Gemini WR 650 and WR 1060 Leisure Versions in Croatia – © Gemini Marine

Everything You Need to Know About RIBs, Explained Simply

Our full guide, What is a Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB)?, breaks down hull types, materials, and real-world uses in clear, practical language in 51 articles all linked.

Rigid Inflatable Boats, better known as RIBs, combine a solid fiberglass hull with inflatable tubes to deliver outstanding stability, buoyancy, and performance.

Before buying, using, or maintaining one, it helps to understand exactly how a RIB is constructed and why its design works well.

Read the guides to discover why Rigid Inflatable Boats have become the top choice for rescue teams, professionals, and everyday boaters worldwide.

Stay on top of the latest RIB news by subscribing to the weekly RIBs ONLY Insider.

BRIG Poker Run Unites Boating Community Norway 2026

August 26 2026August 26 2026 Karel Overlaet, RIB Advocate

BRIG Poker Run Turns Hanko Marina Into a Family Adventure

The BRIG poker run in Norway brought together an international community of BRIG boat owners and dealers for a weekend of adventure at Hanko Marina.

Teams from the UK, Finland, and Norway joined forces, sailing various BRIG models including Eagle 8s, Eagle 6.7s, Eagle 10s, and Navigators through Norway’s stunning coastline. See all specs below.

Participants on the BRIG Poker Run collected playing cards at multiple stops, building poker hands while enjoying food, drinks, and camaraderie along the route.

The event highlighted BRIG’s emphasis on family, friendship, and shared passion for boating rather than pure competition.

The journey concluded back at Hanko Marina with a celebratory dinner, live music, and a beautiful sunset.

Organizers Atler and Hegay were thanked for hosting the unforgettable BRIG Poker Run that strengthened the global BRIG community.

This video was published on the BRIG boats YouTube channel.

BRIG is a Ukrainian RIB brand. Interested in discovering more? Explore the video BRIG model range.

Specs of All 5 Models

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RIB Safety Boats: The Fleet Behind Powerboat Racing

August 17 2026August 19 2026 Andy Squirrell

A Ribtec safety boat @ RIBs ONLY - Home of the Rigid Inflatable Boat — Mercury powered Ribtec 6,55 m safety boat – © Iceman Images – Anthony Hadaway

Why Serious Racing Requires Safety Boats

The Aqua Adrenaline Series brings three different watercraft together to carry out a series of races.

Jet Bikes (not a rib), OCR boats (not a rib) and Pro Cats (almost but not quite a rib).

As with most powered sport they organise different events across the Country from May – October.

However, what holds the series together and allows them to operate safely? The Safety Fleet and yes, they are almost nearly all RIBs.

Primarily all boats are there to keep the course safe, to ensure other water users, that aren’t so observant, don’t stray into the danger area and to keep an eye out for water based mammals.

Red (stop) and yellow (warning) flags are carried and both start and finish are signed from one or other of the ribs.

That said each safety boat has its own characteristics and layouts, which suits them to different roles.

The Safety Fleet

The July event, held at Westbay in Dorset saw this RIB fleet:

RIB	Length	Engine	Fuel capacity
Highfield Patrol 600	6,00 m	Honda 135 hp	140 l inboard
Highfield Patrol 700	7,00 m	Honda 200 hp	285 l inboard
Avon Adventure	6,20 m	Mercury Optimax 150 hp	70 – 120 l inboard
Ribtec	5,00 m	Yamaha 100 hp	150 l inboard
Ribtec Camel	6,55 m	Mercury 150 hp	280 l, multiple inboard tanks
Humber	5,00 m	Yamaha 90 hp	35 l external

With the 5.4 m Sea Rider, that’s often present, having a well deserved break.

The Aqua Adrenaline Series safety boat Highfield 600 @ RIBs ONLY - Home of the Rigid Inflatable Boat

The Aqua Adrenaline Series safety boat Ribtec 6,55 m @ RIBs ONLY - Home of the Rigid Inflatable Boat

The Aqua Adrenaline Series safety boat Humber 5 m @ RIBs ONLY - Home of the Rigid Inflatable Boat

The Aqua Adrenaline Series safety boat Highfield 700 @ RIBs ONLY - Home of the Rigid Inflatable Boat

The Aqua Adrenaline Series safety boat Ribtec 5 m @ RIBs ONLY - Home of the Rigid Inflatable Boat

The Aqua Adrenaline Series safety boat Avon 6,20 m @ RIBs ONLY - Home of the Rigid Inflatable Boat

The Highfield RIBs

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