With the new Zodiac X10CC, the traditional French manufacturer is entering a new dimension for its boats. While the previous models were significantly smaller, the X10CC sets a clear mark with a length of almost ten metres and a width of 3.80 metres and positions itself between a classic inflatable boat and a full-blown day cruiser.
Zodiac X10CC comes with the advantages of a RIB
As soon as you step into the marina in Neustadt, it becomes clear that this boat no longer has much to do with the familiar image of a dinghy used for short trips ashore or as a plaything for children. Rather, it moves in dimensions that are comparable with boats such as a Navan C30, a Bavaria Vida or one Jeanneau Cap Camarat 10.5 CC are comparable. Whether you can still call it an inflatable boat at this size is something everyone has to decide for themselves. What is clear, however, is that the X10CC retains the typical advantages of a RIB, such as stability, low centre of gravity and sporty handling, and combines them with the comfort of a dayboat. In our test, it was able to fully fulfil both requirements.
The question of whether such a boat is "needed" is difficult to answer. Perhaps it is less about the necessity and more about the desire to own a boat of this type. This is precisely part of the fascination that the X10CC wants to exude. The spacious layout catches the eye from the very first tour: two large sunbathing areas in the bow and stern, numerous seats for up to nine people and a maximum capacity of 20 passengers with a CE categorisation of C.
The equipment and the cabin
The equipment is more reminiscent of a day cruiser than an inflatable boat. This includes a galley block with sink and fridge, a cabin with double berth and separate bathroom, plenty of storage space and high-quality details such as folding seats in the bow, tinted portholes, quilted upholstery and coated stainless steel elements. Zodiac also offers a certain variety of materials: the Hypalon tube is available in black, grey or white, the upholstery in the colours Hunter, Shadow or Tan. All colour options are available at no extra charge, the hull is always white. Our test boat was also equipped with a hardtop and a floor covered with EVA foam. If desired, this can be swapped for Flexiteak or omitted completely. You then stand on the typical gelcoat floor.
Particularly noteworthy is the unusually large cabin for a RIB. Two people can easily spend the night here, complemented by an electric toilet, a washbasin and plenty of storage space. Anglers will find rod holders and a livewell package on request. Water sports enthusiasts can use a ski mast and storage space for accessories. Customised additions such as underwater lighting, a bimini or additional shading are also possible.
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The technical data is impressive: around 3.5 tonnes unladen weight, a 760-litre tank and a deep V-hull design with double step, which ensures sporty performance. The X10CC is powered by either two 350 hp Mercury V8 outboards or two 400 hp engines, which enable speeds of up to 60 knots. Alternatively, the boat can also be ordered without an engine. A maximum of 2 x 450 hp can be attached. Our test boat was equipped with two 350 hp Mercury engines.
The test drive with the Zodiac X10CC
The driving experience proved to be superior, the performance more than adequate and the acceleration impressive. Speeds in excess of 40 knots are easily achievable. We travelled at a maximum speed of 49.3 knots at 5,700 revolutions per minute. Slow is definitely different, but that was all we could manage in the waves on the test day. The maximum speed of the two six-cylinder engines is in the range of 5,800 to 6,400 revolutions per minute. So there is still some room for improvement. We estimate that around 55 knots is no problem in good conditions. Things are somewhat calmer at 4,000 revolutions per minute.
Here we reach 31.6 knots, which is also the most economical planing speed. The boat consumes 92.5 litres per hour with both engines. Mathematically, including a 15 per cent reserve, we achieve a range of 223 nautical miles. Harbour manoeuvres are no problem thanks to the two engines, and an optional bow thruster makes tight manoeuvres even easier.
Technical data
- CE category: B/9
- Length over everything: 9,99 m
- Width: 3,80 m
- Displacement: 3,500 kg
- Draught (bottom drive): 1,00 m
- Clearance height: 3,50 m
- Fuel tank: 760 l
- Max. motorisation: 2 x 330 kW (450 hp)
- Test motorisation: 2 x Mercury V10 Verado with 257 kW (350 hp)
- Price: from € 166,600
- Distribution test boat: gruendl.de
Measurement results
| Speed rpm | Speed kn | Consumption l/sm | Range sm | Volume dB(A) |
| 650 | 2,54 | 2,95 | 219 | 61 |
| 4.000 | 31,9 | 2,90 | 223 | 79 |
| 5.700 | 49,3 | 4,38 | 147 | 89 |
Conclusion
Can you still call the Zodiac X10CC an inflatable boat? In general, yes. The largest boat in the Zodiac fleet has retained all the features and characteristics of a RIB and successfully combined them with the advantages of a cabin cruiser.
The workmanship is impressive, and the riding characteristics in particular are very sporty but still easy to handle.
Advantages
Versatile in use
Sporty driving characteristics
for a RIB large toilet room
Jan-Ole Puls
Editor Test & Technology
