The Novamarine Shipyard has announced a sales success. A customer from Italy has ordered the first unit of the new BS 260. The Maxi-RIB measures 26 metres in length and 7 metres in width. When it is delivered in 2028, it will be the largest inflatable boat of its category in the world. The Sardinian shipyard is positioning the boat as the flagship of its Black Shiver range, which comprises a total of six models ranging from 10 to 26 metres.
Design and outdoor areas
The BS 260 features a flat, elongated bow and a compact deck layout in the centre. The stern offers a large open platform for outdoor relaxation, complete with built-in sofas. Access to the water is direct and step-free. From this area, the layout leads into a sheltered section with two sofas facing each other and a dining table. Large glass panels on the sides and skylights provide natural light. The shipyard deliberately does not refer to this area as an enclosed saloon, but rather as a sheltered part of the deck.
Lower deck and cabins
There are a total of four cabins below deck. Three of these are intended for guests, whilst the fourth is for the crew. According to the manufacturer, this layout is designed to ensure privacy and help organise life on board. The layout is based on the concept of offering the comfort of a larger yacht, despite the RIB construction.
Propulsion and performance of the Novamarine
The BS 260 is powered by two MTU engines. The total power output is 4,400 PS. According to the shipyard, this propulsion system is designed to enable high speeds whilst ensuring precise manoeuvrability even in difficult conditions. The engines are specifically designed for use in large RIBs.
The Black Shiver series
The BS 260 is the top-of-the-range model in the Black Shiver series. The series comprises six models. The smallest measures 10 metres (BS 100), whilst the second-largest measures 20.1 metres (BS 200). According to the shipyard, all boats in the range combine the safety and stability typical of RIBs with high-end fittings. Francesco Pirro, CEO of Novamarine, describes the sale as an important step for the shipyard’s positioning.
Technical Specifications
- Length: 26 metres
- Width: 7 metres
- Engine: 2 x MTU
- Total output: 4,400 PS (3,236 kW)
- Cabins: 4 (3 guests, 1 crew member)
Jan-Ole Puls
Editor Test & Technology
