Why RIBs Are the Best Family Boats

For many Australian families, boating isn’t just a pastime it’s part of the lifestyle. Whether it’s taking the kids out on the water to let them steer the boat, casting a line for an early-morning fish before work or school, or enjoying a sunny onboard picnic, the memories created on the water are cherished for a lifetime. To truly enjoy these family moments, having the right boat is essential. It’s not just about the type of boating you want to do it’s also about ensuring there’s enough space, comfort, and safety for everyone on board.

If you’re new to boating or looking to upgrade, this guide breaks down the key factors to consider when choosing a boat that’s best suited to your family’s needs.

What Makes a Good Family Boat?
When selecting a boat for family use, there are a few key qualities to look for. A good family boat should be:

Reliable: You want a boat that’s dependable and built to last.
Practical: It should be functional and easy to handle, especially with kids onboard.
Safe: Safety is paramount, especially when boating with young children.
Comfortable: Everyone should feel at ease, whether they’re fishing, sunbathing, or simply relaxing.
Versatile: A boat that can adapt to different activities, from fishing to wakeboarding, will make family outings even more enjoyable.
Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs) excel in all these areas, making them an ideal choice for families.

Why RIBs are the Best Family Boats
RIBs are known for their versatility, stability, and safety, which are all crucial factors when choosing a family-friendly vessel. Here’s why they stand out:

1. Versatility

RIBs are incredibly adaptable. They offer a stable and spacious platform for fishing, a high-performance ride for wakeboarding or towing inflatables, and luxurious features for a relaxing cruise. Whether you’re out for a fishing trip, seeking an adrenaline rush, or just enjoying a leisurely day on the water, RIBs can do it all.

2. Safety

Safety is a top concern for family boating, especially with kids. RIBs are designed with safety in mind. Their inflatable tubes act as shock absorbers, providing a smoother ride even in choppy conditions. The rubber Hypalon tubes also reduce boat lean during sharp turns, making it much less likely that passengers will be thrown overboard. RIBs are particularly stable at high speeds, which is ideal for families with young ones on board.

3. Stability

With their deep-V fiberglass hulls and inflatable tubes, RIBs offer exceptional stability. Whether you’re cruising over swell or wake, passengers will enjoy a smooth, comfortable ride. This makes RIBs an excellent choice for activities like fishing, where a stable platform is essential.

4. Comfort

RIBs provide a smooth, stable ride underway, but they’re also designed for comfort when stationary. For instance, Grand RIBs feature a centre-console layout that allows easy movement around the vessel, and they come equipped with features like removable tables, fridge-freezers, onboard showers, and even electric toilets—making it comfortable for passengers of all ages.

5. Practicality

RIBs are built with practicality in mind. They offer ample storage space for gear, toys, and personal items, ensuring your boat is organized and clutter-free. Additionally, features like non-slip SeaDek flooring, easy access from the stern, and handrails provide added safety and convenience, especially when you’re boating with kids.

Which RIB is Best for My Family?
The ideal RIB for your family depends on how you plan to use the boat and how many people will be onboard. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best RIB options for different family activities:

Best Family Fishing Boat: Grand D600
The Grand D600 is the ultimate family fishing boat. Spacious and functional, it has large storage lockers, ample space for casting, and a deep-V hull for offshore adventures. It also offers exceptional comfort, with cushioned seating, a sunbed at the bow, and the option to add luxury features like a table and shower.

For smaller families or those after a more compact boat, the Grand S470 offers a great balance of size and functionality. For larger families, the Grand G680 and Grand G750 provide even more space and features.

Best Family Boat for Lakes: Grand G580
If your family enjoys cruising around the lake, the Grand G580 is an excellent choice. With its low-profile tubes, the G580 glides smoothly through chop and wake, offering a comfortable ride for everyone onboard. Features like a bimini cover for shade, a wakeboard tower, and a spacious sunbed make it perfect for both relaxation and watersports.

For larger families, the Grand G680 offers additional comforts like a fridge-freezer, sink, and shower.

Best Family Wakeboarding Boat: Grand D600
For wakeboarding enthusiasts, the Grand D600 takes the lead once again. Its high-performance design makes wakeboarding a breeze, while practical features like a T-top for storing wakeboards, large stern platforms for boarding, and a telescopic ladder ensure everyone can enjoy the action safely and comfortably.

Best Family Cruising Boat: Grand G750 & G850
For families who love cruising and spending time on the water, the Grand G750 and G850 are top choices. These large leisure boats come equipped with extendable sunbeds, a U-shaped seating area, an onboard electric toilet, and a fridge-freezer. Whether you’re cruising to a bay for a swim or enjoying a leisurely picnic, these boats provide the perfect platform for relaxation.

Best Small Family Boat: Grand G420 & G500
If you’re after a smaller boat under 5 metres, the Grand G420 and Grand G500 are ideal for families seeking a compact but functional vessel. Both boats offer great seating, storage, and features like a ski arch for wakeboarding or waterskiing. These boats are perfect for day trips or short runs around the coast.

What Size Boat Is Best for Your Family?
Choosing the right size boat depends on how many people will be onboard and what activities you want to do. Small RIBs (around 3 metres) can comfortably fit a family of four, but if you plan to host more guests or engage in different activities, a larger boat might be more suitable. Larger RIBs typically offer more storage, space, and features, making them a better option for families who want extra comfort and flexibility.

Conclusion: Find the Perfect Family Boat
With their unbeatable stability, comfort, and versatility, RIBs offer families a new level of enjoyment on the water. Whether you’re fishing, wakeboarding, or cruising, a RIB can make your time on the water safer, more comfortable, and more fun. With brands like Grand Boats now available in Australia, you’re sure to find the ideal boat for your family’s next adventure.

Grand Inflatable Boats