3D TenderCompact RIB for everyone

Jan-Ole Puls

 · 12.05.2026

3D Tender: Compact RIB for everyonePhoto: 3D-Tender
The new model from 3D Tender
With the XR6, French manufacturer 3D Tender is launching a compact rigid-hull inflatable boat onto the market. The model is aimed at leisure users as well as professional users. A deep V-hull is designed to ensure good handling characteristics even in rough seas.

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The 3D Tender XR6 is a rigid inflatable boat, or RIB for short. This boat class combines a rigid hull with inflatable tubes on the sides. The tubes act as fenders and increase buoyancy. The XR6 measures around six metres in length, making it one of the compact representatives of its class.

Hull construction and handling characteristics

The manufacturer has installed a deep V-hull. According to 3D Tender, the hull is designed to ensure controlled behaviour even in choppy water. The shape of the hull cuts up the waves instead of jumping over them. According to the shipyard, this leads to a drier ride. The inflatable tubes are divided into several chambers. If one chamber is damaged, the boat remains buoyant.

Deck layout and variability

The deck offers space for crew and equipment. The layout follows a functional concept. The helm station can be ordered in different versions. The basic version comes with a minimalist console. It houses the necessary instruments and controls. If you want more comfort, you can choose an extended helmstand solution. This offers additional weather protection and more storage space. The manufacturer has opted for modular equipment. Buyers can customise the boat to suit their needs.

Materials and processing

3D Tender uses glass fibre reinforced plastic, also known as GRP, for the hull. The hoses are made of Hypalon or PVC. Hypalon is considered to be more resistant to UV radiation and chemicals, but is more expensive. PVC offers better value for money. The seams are welded, not glued. This increases durability. All fittings are made of stainless steel.

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Technical data:

  • Length: approx. 6 metres
  • Construction method: Rigid inflatable boat (RIB)
  • Hull material: Glass fibre reinforced plastic (GRP)
  • Tube material: Hypalon or PVC
  • Hull mould: Deep V-hull
  • Drive: Outboard motor (various power levels available)

Jan-Ole Puls

Jan-Ole Puls

Editor Test & Technology

Ole Puls was born in Schleswig in 1999. He quickly swapped the football pitch for the Schlei and grew up sailing a wide variety of dinghies and tall ships. From his grandfather's self-built wooden opti and a Europe to a 49er and an X362 Sport, there was a lot to choose from. After leaving school, Puls decided to train as a boat builder at the high-tech shipyard Knierim Yachtbau in Kiel in 2016. He successfully completed his training in 2020 and stayed at the shipyard as a bachelor. In 2022, he decided not only to build boats, but also to test them. Since then, he has been working for Delius Klasing Verlag in the Test & Technology section of BOOTE magazine. The training he received and the eye for detail and quality of workmanship he acquired help him immensely today. Even though he is a regatta sailor with heart and soul, he feels right at home on motorboats and enjoys separating his professional and private lives and yet combining them. Because we all know one thing: there is simply no better place to be than on the water.

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