The Many Types Of Boats Called Tenders

A tender boat, also known as a yacht tender, boat tender, or simply a tender, is a smaller vessel used to service or support larger boats or ships. They are often used to transport people or supplies to and from shore or another ship, and they tend to the needs of the larger craft. Tenders can be used for a variety of purposes, including fetching supplies and equipment, transporting passengers, or providing entertainment and pleasure for a yacht's guests. They can also serve as lifeboats in an emergency. Tender boats come in a range of shapes and sizes and can be customised to fit the specific needs of the owner.

Yacht tenders

A yacht tender is a smaller vessel that supports and services a private or charter yacht. Tenders can be used for a variety of purposes, including guest transfers, landing crafts, storing supplies and equipment, and providing entertainment and leisure activities.

The type of tender used depends on the size and requirements of the yacht. Smaller yachts typically use rigid inflatable boats, while superyachts may have a variety of tender styles, including classic, modern, sedan, and RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat). Superyacht tenders can also include custom luxury tenders, high-speed limousine tenders, and support vessels that follow the yacht and carry bulky items like helicopters or automobiles.

Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs)

A rigid inflatable boat (RIB), also known as a rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RHIB), is a lightweight yet high-performance and high-capacity boat. It has a rigid hull bottom joined with inflatable tubes that are filled with air at high pressure, giving the boat buoyancy and rigidity. RIBs are stable, light, fast, and seaworthy, making them ideal for rescue operations, safety boats for sailing, dive boats, and tenders for larger vessels.

RIBs are commonly four to nine metres (13 to 28 ft) long and are propelled by outboard motors or an inboard motor. Their shallow draught, high manoeuvrability, and speed make them well-suited for various applications. They can be used as work boats, military craft, patrol boats, and lifeboats. The first commercially available RIB was introduced in 1967, and they have since become popular for both professional and leisure purposes.

RIBs are often used as tenders for larger boats and ships, addressing the needs of the larger craft. They can be used for transporting passengers, fetching supplies, and providing entertainment. For larger yachts, RIBs serve as convenient and comfortable tenders, often matching the luxury and quality of the yacht.

RIBs are highly customisable, with various seating configurations and accessories available. They can be made with different materials, such as marine-grade aluminium or fibreglass hulls, and Hypalon or PU tubes. RIB manufacturers offer complete customisation to meet specific needs, making them a versatile and reliable choice for a wide range of applications.

Tenders as lifeboats

Tenders are smaller boats that run back and forth from a larger yacht or ship. They tend to the needs of the larger craft and can be used for various purposes, including fetching supplies and equipment, transporting passengers, or providing a casual ride on the water. In some cases, they can also serve as lifeboats in emergencies.

Tenders can be stored on the ship by being hoisted onto the deck or towed behind the yacht. The type of tender varies depending on the size of the yacht it serves. Smaller sailing yachts, for example, typically have dinghy tenders that must be towed, while larger yachts may have davits to lift the tender out of the water.

Multifunction dinghies have recently become available as yacht tenders, which can be rowed, motored, or sailed, and also function as proactive lifeboats. These dinghies are unsinkable, providing an added layer of safety for those on board.

PALFINGER MARINE offers a range of partially enclosed lifeboats and combined tender boat or lifeboat systems for any passenger vessel. Their CTL 38 and CTL 38 SV tender lifeboats are some of the most popular in the world, known for their good maneuverability and capacity to hold 250-270 people.

Tender boats for fishing

Tender boats are small, lightweight vessels that tend to the needs of a larger ship. They are often used to transport people and supplies to and from larger vessels, but can also be used for recreation, such as fishing. They are typically between 10 and 20 feet long and weigh less than 2,000 pounds, making them easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces and various water conditions.

Tender boats are an essential part of any boating fleet. They are convenient and comfortable, easy to use, and versatile. They can be used for transportation, recreation, or any other boating needs. For example, they can be used to fetch supplies and equipment, transport passengers, or provide a casual ride on the water. In some cases, they can even serve as lifeboats during an emergency.

When it comes to fishing, tender boats can be a great option. Their small size and lightweight construction make them ideal for navigating to your favourite fishing spots, especially in shallow waters that larger boats cannot traverse. Many tender boats also come equipped with features designed specifically for fishing, such as fishing rod holders and extra storage space for fishing gear.

Additionally, tender boats offer convenience and comfort for fishing enthusiasts. They often include luxury amenities and can even be customised to match the quality and style of your larger vessel. Tender boats can provide a stable and spacious platform for casting your line, with plenty of room for all your fishing gear. Some models even offer sleeping cabins, so you can extend your fishing trip and turn it into a relaxing getaway.

When choosing a tender boat for fishing, consider factors such as size, stability, and additional features. Stability is crucial to ensure a safe and comfortable fishing experience, especially if you plan to fish in choppy waters. Look for tender boats with a flat bottom or a deep V-shaped hull, as these designs typically offer superior stability.

In terms of size, consider the amount of space you need for your fishing gear and personal belongings. If you prefer a solitary fishing experience, a smaller tender boat may suffice. However, if you plan to fish with friends or family, opt for a larger model that can accommodate multiple passengers.

Lastly, consider customising your tender boat with fishing-specific features. For example, you can add extra rod holders, livewells for bait, or even a trolling motor to help you manoeuvre quietly and efficiently while fishing. By tailoring your tender boat to your fishing needs, you can enhance your overall fishing experience.

Tender boat categories

Tender boats are vessels that service or support larger boats or ships. They are often used to transport people or supplies to and from shore or another ship. They can also be used as lifeboats in an emergency.

Tender boats can be categorised by their hull type, which can be fully inflatable, rigid inflatable, or rigid. Fully inflatable boats rely on inflation for buoyancy, while rigid inflatable boats have a hull constructed from rigid materials like aluminium or fibreglass, with an inflatable collar for added buoyancy. Rigid boats have a fully rigid hull without a buoyancy collar.

In addition to hull type, tender boats can be classified into several sub-categories, including open, chase, classic, foil, catamaran, and dive. Open tenders are single-deck boats commonly used for guest transfers, while chase tenders follow the main vessel and are often towed astern. Classic tenders are styled with a continuous line from the head to the heel, echoing the elegant design of boats like the Riva Ariston or the Hinckley picnic boat. Foiling tenders combine thrust with lift, allowing them to become airborne and achieve higher speeds with lower energy consumption. Catamaran tenders offer increased stability and a more comfortable ride in bigger seas due to their twin-hull design. Dive tenders, as the name suggests, are optimised for scuba diving and are designed for easy access to the water.

The type of tender boat used depends on the specific needs and preferences of the owner, as well as the size and capabilities of the larger vessel it will be servicing.

Frequently asked questions