Second X-Craft model presented with a crossing to South England
Following the successful launch of the luxury X-Craft 9.0 inboard at the Millionaire Fair in Amsterdam, X-Craft now introduces a more sportive outboard version: the X-craft 8.0.
The launch of this new model will take place 8 to 10 May, at the Ribex Boat show on England’s Isle of Wight.
The defining features of this RIB (rigid inflatable boat) are its high speed, boating comfort and top-quality design. As for the first X-Craft model, there is a wide range of options in terms of engine. Our initial pick is the 250 hp Mercury Pro XS, which achieved speeds in excess of 100 km/h in test runs. The most notable differences compared to the first model are its length, the outboard engine and a number of design modifications. Where the 9.0 inboard version exudes more luxury and comfort, the 8.0 has more of a high-performance sportive character. For a first glimpse, see the photographs on
www.xcraft.nl.
Both models will depart for South England in early May. Notwithstanding their rugged sea-worthiness, the crossing remains a challenging undertaking. “Aside from the adventure, it’s also a great test for the boats. Making the crossing will not be a problem, but of course we would like to do so with some measure of comfort”, explains Niels Deen, the founder and designer of X-Craft. The 600-kilometre endeavour will culminate in the Ribex boat show on the Isle of Wight. At this boat fair, which is exclusively dedicated to RIBs, interested parties can directly sail out to sea to be persuaded of the qualities of the new model. Although RIBs are already widely used in England, the two models are sure to catch attention thanks to their striking design, finishing and high quality.
The popularity of this type of boat is steadily growing worldwide. RIB rallies are now held in places such as the Caribbean region, Denmark and Spain. The Netherlands now joins this list, with a rally departing from the island of Texel scheduled for September. It goes without saying that X-Craft will participate.
In addition to its sportive qualities, X-Craft offers several other important advantages. It’s not just a sea-worthy speedboat, but also a safe and stable touring boat. So it shouldn’t be a surprise to see the X-Craft making a tour of the Amsterdam canals this summer, or a relaxing outing on one of Holland’s rivers.
The addition of the X-craft 8.0 significantly expands our market reach. Just like its bigger brother, this model is entirely tailor-made and can thus be constructed according to the customer’s wishes. The boats are built entirely in the Netherlands, ensuring permanent quality control. Due to their success, the patented shock-absorbing seats remain unchanged in the second model. This important component of the boat is also fully self-manufactured. The X-Craft 8.0 will have its market launch on 1 April 2009
