Zodiac’s X9CC: A Versatile RIB Redefining the Boating Experience
The Cannes Yachting Festival annually serves as a stage for groundbreaking announcements. This year, Zodiac unveiled the X9CC, a rigid inflatable boat (RIB) that surpasses traditional expectations for its class. Measuring 8.6 meters, it immediately positions itself among boats designed for broader navigation, capable of accommodating multiple uses without sacrificing conviviality.
Zodiac emphasizes that this boat is conceived as an “all-in-one” solution. It’s designed for waterskiing and wakeboarding, appealing to fishing enthusiasts with its stability and open spaces, and suitable for family outings. The inclusion of a cabin, a rarity on this type of vessel, transforms the onboard experience, providing added comfort, a resting area, and the ability to extend navigation beyond simple coastal trips.
Comfort and Power Combined
The X9CC’s layout is carefully designed to adapt to the varied rhythms of a day at sea. The entirely open deck features two large sunbeds, one at the bow and one at the stern. These distinct areas allow for seamless transitions between a sporty atmosphere and a more relaxed ambiance, a significant advantage when carrying up to fifteen passengers.
The choice of twin outboard engines offers a dual benefit: the necessary power to effortlessly tow a wakeboard or tube, and the flexibility to ensure comfortable long-term navigation. Zodiac embraces a hybrid positioning, appealing to both thrill-seekers and those who prefer a peaceful cruise.
The tubes, available in neoprene/hypalon or carbon versions, demonstrate attention to detail. They enhance the boat’s robustness while accentuating its sleek and contemporary style. This focus on materials reflects Zodiac’s commitment to offering a RIB that is both durable and elegant, designed to last and impress over the long term.
Zodiac X9CC Technical Specifications:
- Length: 8.6 m (category +8 m)
- Engines: 2 outboard engines
- Capacity: Up to 15 people
- Cabins: 1
- Deck: Open with front and rear sunbeds
- Navigation Programs: Cruising and leisure, waterskiing, wakeboarding, fishing, sports
- Materials: Neoprene/hypalon or neoprene carbon tubes
A Standout Innovation at the Show
With the X9CC, Zodiac reaffirms its pioneering role in the RIB market. This model reflects the evolution of the sector, where demand is no longer limited to speed or raw performance. Boaters today seek a boat capable of doing it all: family outings, engaging in sports activities, or simply enjoying elegant and comfortable navigation.
Previewed on the Croisette, the Zodiac X9CC garnered attention for its size, modularity, and design. In a context where the market is moving towards increasingly versatile units, it stands out as one of the revelations of the Cannes Yachting Festival 2025 and as a symbol of the new generation of RIBs.
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