Press release and pictures from MBY gallery
In a first for the company, Zodiac have launched a cabin RIB, named the n-ZO.
Designed by Italian naval architect Vittorio Garroni, the n-ZO is certainly an eye catching boat, combining the bonuses of a RIB with the option of the odd over night stop.
More pictures are available in the MBYgallery and here is the press release from Zodiac:
“Zodiac International, the world’s longest established RIB and Inflatable
manufacturer, has developed its first high performance cabin RIB for the
European marketplace in collaboration with renowned Italian designer,
Vittorio Garroni. The stylish new n-ZO, which will be making its first UK
appearance at RIBEX in May, combines Zodiac’s boat-building expertise and
Garroni’s pure lines resulting in the most sophisticated craft to be
produced from the Zodiac factory to date.
“Designed with the ultimate in onboard comfort in mind, the 6.95 metre (22ft 8in) n-ZO features a two berth cabin that can accommodate up to five people. With a
separate toilet, sink and a lockable sliding door, the n-ZO offers all the
amenities of a cabin cruiser with the performance advantages of a semi-rigid
boat. Two portholes and four spotlights provide plenty of light into the
cabin area.
“Up on deck there is a large sun bathing area over the cabin with a parapet
to the fore. A U-shaped platform aft with bolsters provides plenty of
comfortable seating and makes an ideal entertainment area. A leaning post
with a sink and space for a fridge, stove and liferaft have also been
incorporated. The aft seating area can also be covered for sunbathing.
Swimming and safety have been well considered with a bathing ladder fitted
aft for easy access into the water.
“The steering console features an extra wide windscreen for easy visibility
and the hydraulic steering system makes this craft easy to handle. The n-ZO
is an extremely versatile craft and is ideal for all water-based activities,
such as water-skiing or just exploring and picnicking with family and
friends.
“Performance is impressive thanks to the use of the finest technology that
has been incorporated in the design. With speed capabilities of up to 42
knots based on a maximum power or 300hp or 2 x 150hp the n-ZO will not fail
to make an impression. The version at the show will be powered by Honda’s
BF225 4-stroke engine.”
We managed to get a drive of the n-ZO at the Zodiac press day and we were impressed with the soft ride despite the fact that boat has a huge beam. It wasn’t tough conditions but going through wake there was no hint of a slam and the boat felt well planted and handled predictably but is not as much fun as some of the more utilitarian RIBs.
We did feel the boat was somewhat under powered however, with a 225hp Honda outboard. The solid handling and capable hull could easily cope with the 300hp or 350hp engine or a powerful twin engine set up.
The official launch will be at RIBEX 2009.
At a glance:
Length: 22ft 8in (6.95m)
Beam: 10ft 6in (3.25m)
Engines: 1 x 225hp/1 x 300hp/2 x 150hp outboard
Top Speed: 42 knots
Price: from £30,236 inc UK VAT
Contact:
Alan Morgan
Zodiac International
Tel: 44 (0)1554 882000
Email: AlanMW@avon-inflatable.com
For more information on Zodiac n-ZO cabin RIB go to their website.
