Semi-rigid boats: latest trends and innovations
Semi-rigid boats are experiencing growing popularity among navigation enthusiasts and water sports enthusiasts. With their versatile design and remarkable performance, these boats have become privileged choices for many activities at sea.
In this article, Orca Retail explores the latest trends and innovations in the field of semi-rigid boats. Performance, comfort, security, discover what the future reserves!
Building materials
One of the major trends in semi-rigid boats is the use of innovative building materials. Nowadays, more and more manufacturers opt for advanced composite materials, such as :
- Carbon fiber, made by weaving very fine carbon wires, then impregnating them with resin. This material offers exceptional resistance while being much lighter than traditional materials. Carbon fiber improves the structural resistance of the shell, thus reducing its weight and increasing speed and maneuverability. In addition, it has excellent corrosion resistance and good thermal insulation, which makes it ideal for semi-rigid boats.
- Kevlar, made up of synthetic aramid fibers woven together to form a solid and light structure. This material is recognized for its exceptional resistance to abrasion, shocks and perforations. It is often used in combination with other materials, such as fiberglass or carbon fiber, to obtain an optimal balance between lightness, resistance and durability.
- Hypalon and reinforced PVC : Although mainly used for inflatable tubes of semi-rigid boats, reinforced hypalon and PVC are important materials in their construction. Hypalon is a synthetic rubber material resistant to weathering, UV and chemicals. It offers excellent sustainability and abrasion resistance, making it a popular choice for inflatable tubes. Reinforced PVC is a material also used for inflatable tubes, providing high resistance to wear and damage.
Electric propulsion
With the emphasis on environmentally friendly technologies, electric propulsion is becoming an important trend in the semi-rigid boats industry.
THE electric motors offer a silent navigation, a low energy consumption and a reduced ecological footprint.
Electric engines that do not produce direct exhaust gas emissions, air quality is improved, and reduced noise pollution. They thus participate in preserving the marine ecosystem and promoting more sustainable navigation.
The evolution of batteries also concerns semi-rigid boats. Advanced on the lithium-ion have greatly improved the performance of electric motors. The new batteries offer high energy density (they can store more energy in a smaller space), allowing them to travel longer distances without requiring frequent recharge.
Intelligent control systems
Modern semi-rigid boats are increasingly equipped with intelligent control systems to centralize the management and control of different functions of the boat. Thanks to a multifunction touch screen, users can access different settings and adjust them according to their preferences, or create personalized navigation profiles. This includes speed surveillance, management of fuel consumption, navigation GPS, reading music And many other features.
Connectivity on board
With constant advances in the field of connectivity, many semi-rigid boats are now equipped with connectivity features on board.
This may include connectivity Bluetooth For streaming music, integration with mobile applications for navigation, as well as connectivity options Wi-Fi.
This allows users to access online services, such as software updates, real -time weather information, updated navigation cards, etc. This ensures that the boat is constantly up to date with the latest features and improvements.
To find out more about the subject, consult our dedicated article: "Connectivity at sea: 5G, satellite, Starlink what to choose?"
Modular living spaces
An emerging trend in semi-rigid boats is the design of modular living spaces. Manufacturers seek to maximize the use of the available space by offering customizable configurations to meet the specific needs of users. Here are some examples:
- Multipurpose seats: Adjustable and configurable to meet the specific needs of users. For example, some seats can be transformed into driver's seats, benches, sunbathing or even additional sleeping areas.
- Extendable bath platforms: Allowing to enlarge the relaxation space at the back of the boat, these platforms can be deployed when you stop, to relax, bathe or practice water sports.
- Modular storage systems: To personalize and adapt storage options according to individual needs, versatile storage compartments and modular fixing systems organize and secure the equipment, nautical accessories and personal effects on board.
- Space conversion options: A dining area turns into a relaxation area, or a storage area in a compact kitchen area. This versatility makes it possible to maximize the use of space on board and to adapt to different scenarios of use.
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Read more about the world of semi-rigids:
- Why buy a semi-rigid boat? Benefits
- The best models of semi-rigid pneumatic boats
- How to maintain your semi-rigid boat?