Scorpion puts the sting into RIBs

The new commercial boats are based on Scorpion’s world renowned RCD Category B hulls (which hold many of the European endurance records), so they offer a superb platform for commercial operators.

Leigh French, Scorpion RIBs, told Maritime Journal: “Scorpion’s strategy, in terms of entering the commercial sector is in addition to our current leisure and superyacht builds and will be to the detriment of neither. Last year, Scorpion invested heavily into a new facility here in Lymington which has given us the ability to build larger boats and to furnish larger contracts. It therefore makes perfect sense that we now start to offer our whole range of hulls to commercial operators.”

The new commercial range currently extends from 8 to 12 metres and includes open boats and full cabin ribs with crew accommodation. Scorpion has just completed sea trials of its new fast patrol boat, the Scorpion Sting Cabin Top (CT).

Ms Leigh added: “We do not intend to compete with the high volume ‘basic workboat’ manufacturers, and would be foolish to think that we ever could. We are aiming at markets where crew will be expected to go to sea in all weathers, and all conditions without being concerned over comfort or safety.”

Initial interest has come from the Middle East and Far East, which Scorpion says is an emerging market for its leisure craft.

Scorpion RIBs will be at Seawork International this year on Berth 35.