Fluid Watercraft to supply rigid inflatable boats to North America
STEVENSVILLE, Md. — Affinity Marine Group is pleased to announce the opening of its new facility in Stevensville Maryland and the debut of Fluid Watercraft, a company focused on the development and sales of cabin RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats) for North America. The company’s initial models, the Fluid R280 and Fluid R350 will be featured at the US Power Boat Show in Annapolis, beginning October 16, and the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, beginning October 30.
The Fluid R280 and R350 are primed to impress North American recreational boaters and will be followed immediately with the launching of similar boats for commercial applications. “The Fluid Watercraft line of boats have been developed in response to a growing demand for high quality, high performance cabin RIBs, at a reasonable price,” said Boyd Tomkies, Managing Partner of Fluid Watercraft.
Partnering with South Africa’s Gemini Marine, a leading builder of quality RIBs for more than 35 years, as well as other worldwide suppliers, Fluid Watercraft is able to deliver boats of exceptional quality for a reasonable price. With prices starting at just over $160,000, these new models will allow interested boaters to enjoy the benefits of large cabin RIBs that have previously been perceived as too expensive.
Established in 1979, Gemini Marine provides the South African and worldwide boating market with the most comprehensive range of RIBs and Inflatables available. Gemini’s team of 80 skilled craftsmen combines experience with attention to detail to meet and exceed expectations. Gemini supplies military, recreational, rescue and racing Ribs and Inflatables to clients in over 40 countries.
With an initial focus on these two models, the company has been able to ensure that its four criteria’s, safety, quality, performance, and value are being met in every way. The Fluid R280 is the stimulating embodiment of inspiration and imagination. With its forward-thinking cabin design and robust deep V hull, The Fluid R280 is not an everyday boat. It is a boat for every day in every type of weather. At 28 feet and running with a standard 400 HP, as well as a strong and well balanced fiberglass hull and orca Hypalon tubes, the R280 provides great stability and carry capacity, resulting in one of the safest and most comfortable rides in the recreational market.
Her bigger sister, the Fluid R350 is all of 35 feet in length and runs with a standard of 500 horsepower via twin 250 engines and top end speeds in excess of 55 miles per hour. Both models offer spacious decks and cabin seating allowing for all on board to comfortably enjoy the exhilarating ride only a Fluid can provide. Deck options available range from standard non-skid hand laid fiberglass, to custom 3” teak throughout. Interior and exterior upholstery provides both durability and comfort courtesy of only the finest craftsmanship and premium materials.
Inside the cabin, captain and crew will appreciate the wrap around glass enclosed helm, with a standard electronics package that includes a 14” screen GPS/plotter, stereo, and VHF, as well as an exceptionally well designed cockpit layout. Forward of the helm, the Fluid R280 and R350 provide plenty of room to relax, highlighted by twin bunks, an enclosed head, and sink, as well as plenty of storage.
