BRIG Eagle 650 off to a flying start in Australia

Honda partner BRIG Inflatable Boats chose Australia for the recent global launch of its new high-performance Eagle 650, which has been well received by thrill-seeking boaters.

As the centrepiece of Australian BRIG importer Sirocco Marine’s massive exhibit at the Sydney International Boat Show, the head-turning Honda BF225-powered Eagle 650 sold immediately, while several more orders have already been placed.

Sirocco Marine’s Neil Webster said the “evolutionary” Eagle 650 incorporated a host of improvements over the Eagle 645 it replaced, including an upgraded power rating from 175hp to 225hp.

“With the Honda BF225, the Eagle 650 delivers a top speed of nearly 50kt, which will get you anywhere quickly… be it whale watching offshore, a family picnic on a secluded beach or dinner at a waterside restaurant,” Mr Webster said.

“BRIG owners are very discerning boaters… almost all of them have owned a number of boats, from trailer boats to luxury cruisers, before they’ve come around to buying a BRIG.

“They’re looking for the epitome of quality, performance and versatility, which is exactly what the BRIG/Honda combination delivers.”

As Europe’s largest manufacturer of rigid inflatable boats (RIBs), BRIG has quickly become Australia’s biggest-selling RIB brand.

Honda Australia marine manager Robert Johnson said this rapidly-growing niche was apparent all over the country.

“Sales on Australia’s east coast, in particular, have noticeably grown over the past few years, which is testament to the versatility of these boats,” Mr Johnson said.

“Just as Europeans have known for years, Australians are realising RIBs are true all-rounders… no longer seen just as tenders for larger boats, people are using them for towsports, fishing and cruising.”

Next stop on the BRIG/Honda circuit is the Mandurah Boat Show (12-14 October), where Prestige Marine Boat Sales will have a large range of Honda-powered BRIGs on display.

Interestingly, although the BRIG Eagle 650 is yet to be seen in Western Australia, a number of Honda BF225-powered vessels have already been pre-sold in the state.