CENTRE OF ATTENTION
Why centre console tenders are making waves with their versatility, unmatched performance, easy handling and ability to adapt to any superyacht lifestyle or adventure
Once the preserve of American sportfishermen, centre console boats have been steadily redefined as the tender of choice for the superyacht set. Their clean lines, open decks and go-anywhere practicality make them far more than just shuttles to shore – they’ve become versatile lifestyle platforms in their own right.
At the heart of their appeal is visibility. With the helm planted firmly amidships, the driver commands uninterrupted 360° views – a priceless asset whether threading through a crowded marina, edging alongside a mothership, or keeping tabs on guests in the water. It’s situational awareness in its purest form, and one of the reasons owners are turning to centre consoles in increasing numbers.
Design freedom is another strong suit. Centralising the helm frees up fore and aft space for lounges, convertible seating and clever storage, all without compromising movement around the deck. Families in particular prize the ability to separate children and adults into distinct zones, while bow seating doubles as a natural hideaway and stowage hub. Add in the ease of moving from stern swim platform to bow sun beds without obstruction, and the layout becomes as sociable as it is practical.
On the water, balance is the unsung hero. By keeping weight distribution even, centre consoles offer a smoother, more predictable ride in everything from flat calm to lumpy chop. Passengers can sit fore or aft without unsettling the trim, and the hull responds with poise whether at a brisk cruise or throttled back for close-quarter manoeuvres. It’s a quality that elevates comfort and confidence alike.
But perhaps the biggest reason behind the surge in popularity is versatility. A centre console tender is just as at ease ferrying guests ashore as it is serving as a launchpad for paddleboards, dive trips or beach runs. Generous deck space, plenty of standing room, and the ability to strap on some serious outboard horsepower make them as fun as they are functional.
Handsome, capable and endlessly adaptable, today’s centre consoles are no longer niche. They’re becoming the natural choice for owners who want their tenders to be more than just transport – vessels that embody the same spirit of freedom and adventure as the yachts they serve.
VIKING YACHTS
The Viking Valhalla V-55 Sport Yacht – often referred to simply as the V-55 Sport, bridges the gap between high-speed performance and luxurious cruising. Measuring 55’ 7”, it weighs between 47,500 to 51,750 lbs and holds up to 1,100 gallons of fuel, 150 gallons of fresh water, and 50 gallons of waste. Powered by four Mercury Verado 600-hp outboard engines on a stepped-V ventilated tunnel hull, it delivers a thrilling ride; one test reached speeds around 60 mph, with sharp, responsive handling. The design emphasises hospitality and seamless indoor-outdoor living. The cockpit features a dining area, L-shaped summer kitchen, and fold-down balconies that dramatically increase the entertainment space . Touches of Viking craftsmanship are evident below decks, including elegant pilothouse cabin styling and thoughtful layout choices. Overall, the V-55 Sport is a bold, stylish cruiser that pairs exhilarating performance with luxurious comfort and performance.
www.vikingyachts.com
MAXIM YACHTS
The MAX 43 Comfort from Maxim Yachts is far more than a tender: it is a masterpiece created for those who demand luxury, performance and comfort in every journey. Designed by Alex Cherigny and engineered by Isonaval, this 13.07-metre model combines sleek lines with a fibreglass hull enhanced by carbon-finish details in key areas, ensuring stability, safety and smooth cruising even in challenging conditions. Each unit is built to measure according to the owner’s specifications, guaranteeing meticulous attention to detail. The deck has been conceived for social life on board: two folding tables, four sofas – one of them integrating refrigerators and generous sunbathing areas both fore and aft, offering versatile spaces to relax or entertain in style. Powered by twin Volvo Penta D6 440 engines, the MAX 43 Comfort blends advanced engineering with performance.
www.maxim.yachts
TWISTED SUPERYACHT TENDERS
Hand-built in Lymington, England, Twisted Scorpion takes inspiration from iconic hull design and cutting edge innovation. The commitment to the craft offers unparalleled ride comfort. Twisted’s Superyacht Tenders combine Scorpion’s legendary deep-V hulls with Twisted’s obsessive craftsmanship. Elegance and attention to detail match safety and performance, with soft, dry-riding high-volume hulls outperforming other tenders in class across all sea states. Select from agile Serket models (7.8–9.8m, 250–600 hp), the record-breaking Sting, and spacious Silurian (up to 10.5m, 800 hp). Choose bespoke detailing and layout options, with bow-boarding ladders, varied seating configurations, and over-tube steps available. All of the hull forms include options for inboard jet engines, stern drive and outboard propulsion solutions. Whether for access, leisure exploration or chase-boat duties, the tenders elevate the experience for the guests, and for you. Meticulously handcrafted in the UK, by those forever in pursuit of perfection, you can look forward to dry comfort, stable handling, and fuel efficiency in all conditions. You’ll also have the support of a UK-wide engineering network in Salcombe, Brighton and Lymington, and will find the aftercare is as exceptional as their tenders.
www.twisted.co/marine
ANVERA
Anvera represents a new way of experiencing the sea: cutting-edge technology, Italian elegance and uncompromising performance. Built entirely in carbon fibre, each yacht combines exceptional strength-to-weight ratio with over 35 years of offshore racing expertise, ensuring efficiency, reduced fuel consumption and pure speed. As a true nautical atelie, every Anvera is a bespoke creation. From layout to materials to the smallest detail, each element is shaped around the owner’s lifestyle, making every yacht unique in the world. The fleet includes the Anvera 42, 48, 58, and 66 – versatile yachts enjoyed as refined day cruisers or weekenders, and as high-performance chase boats for maxi yachts. More than a yacht, Anvera is a personal statement at sea.
www.anvera.it
LINX TENDERS
The Linx Beach lander Catamaran is a state-of-the-art beach lander catamaran that blends cutting-edge engineering with refined luxury. Crafted from super-lightweight carbon fibre composite, it offers unmatched strength and agility, with a semi-foiling hull that delivers thrilling performance, reduced fuel burn and a smooth, dry ride even in choppy seas. Incredible versatility lies at its core. Seating for up to 12 passengers makes it is ideal for stylish guest transfers, while the open layout adapts seamlessly for water sports, day cruising or discreet shore landings. Twin water jet drives ensure shallow-draft capability, while joystick control provides effortless precision manoeuvring, perfect for docking, beaching or navigating tight harbours. An optional fold-down hard top allows for seamless superyacht garage stowage, while the beach lander bow ramp enables guests to step ashore with ease. With its advanced construction, intuitive handling and contemporary design, the Linx Tender represents the next generation of semi-foiling luxury tenders: an incredible balance of performance, versatility and sophistication on the water.
www.linxtenders.com
SEALEGS
When it comes to the ultimate tender every luxury yacht owner wants, Sealegs amphibious marine craft – with their range of centre-console RIBs from 12 to 30 feet – is the answer. It’s like having a Swiss Army knife instead of just a single blade, because a Sealegs amphibious craft opens a world of possibilities and places to explore, thanks to its ability to land on a beach, so nobody gets wet. If the tide goes out while you’re picnicking, who cares? This craft simply lifts itself back up onto its wheels and drives to the water. Sealegs are manufactured in New Zealand, a country rich in maritime history and renowned for building some of the world’s finest boats. The high level of design, craftsmanship and engineering in a Sealegs is second to none – which is exactly what luxury yacht owners look for when pairing a tender with their mothership. The Sealegs range of amphibious tenders is designed with optional davit lift points for those not parking in a lazarette. Their clever design and low maintenance also mean they’re a dream for the crew to operate.
www.sealegs.com
WILLIAMS JET TENDERS
The EvoJet 70 is the most advanced and luxurious model from iconic British manufacturer Williams Jet Tenders. The layout has been meticulously designed to include a fold-down transom allowing guests or crew to walk around the whole boat from the bathing platform at the stern, to the additional seating and storage at the bow. The EvoJet is able to carry 13 persons onboard so having a centre console means multiple boarding options can be easily accessed for guests, and the tender is more user-friendly to operate for crew. With a 250hp YANMAR 4LV engine, you’ll never be short on power as the tender delivers speeds of up to 40mph. Its sophisticated hull design ensures smooth, stable handling even in choppy waters, while high-quality materials and finishes offer both durability and luxury, making it an ideal choice for any superyacht owner seeking performance and comfort. In 2024, Williams produced an electric powered EvoJet as a technology demonstrator to showcase what’s possible with the best components on the market.
www.williamsjettenders.com
FORMULA BOATS
The Formula 457 Center Console Fish is your move forward for the ultimate angling machine. The 457 CCF boasts the finish and amenities expected of a Formula, with all the execution of an unparalleled offshore fishing battlewagon. At 45’7” with a 13’9” beam, and powered by triple Mercury 600 Verados, the Formula 457 will impress all comers. Built to your preference, from hard-core fish to upscale sport cruising, the 457 will match your boating style. Opt for foldaway aft seating and pressurized 50-gallon twin livewells, or add a sculpted aft lounge for a sporting flair Below, the cabin brings you 6’6” of headroom with a full air-craft galley with microwave, fridge, sink and abundant counter and cabinet space. The U-lounge with table converts to a two-person berth. The spacious head features a separate, stand-up shower. This impressive Center Console Fish is built on Formula’s rich offshore heritage and is sure to impress. The Formula 457 CCF displays your good taste and demand for high-end design and engineering, the finest amenities and top-notch build quality by Formula’s team of craftsmen who take pride in creating only the best boats on the water.
www.formulaboats.com
ARGOS NAUTIC
Argos Nautic designs and builds premium luxury RIB tenders that reflect the performance, aesthetics and quality expected by today’s superyacht owners. Based in Miami, Argos offers three distinct series -diesel jet, outboard and gas jet, each providing options that cater to a wide range of yacht configurations and preferences. Each Argos tender is built to order, giving owners and shipyards complete freedom to tailor finishes, upholstery and features. All tenders are hand-built in the USA to the highest standards, using top-tier materials and accessories. They combine refined European design with American craftsmanship for uncompromising quality. With a deep focus on comfort, seaworthiness and sharp design, Argos Nautic tenders deliver a smooth, dry ride, making them ideal for both crew operations and guest enjoyment. Designed to complement the mothership in both aesthetics and performance, Argos Nautic tenders are a seamless extension of the superyacht experience.
www.argosnautic.com
