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Displaying items by tag: Bombard

Following on from their Sun Odyssey promotion, which began six weeks ago, MGM Boats is offering a Spring Promotion on their selection of Zodiac and Bombard RIBs. The promotion is valid until 30th April 2024.

MGM have offerings from €30k up to €120k, so there is a model to suit everyone, whether it’s for pottering around in a 5m Bombard or spending full days on the water in a 6.8m Zodiac

The promotion applies to MGM’s current stock only, but of course, they can supply any of the other models from the Zodiac and Bombard range on request.

Zodiac & Bombard are the oldest and most established RIB builders on the market, with the first-ever inflatable boat, a ‘Zodiac’, being launched in 1922. The company began supplying RIBs to the French Military in the 1930s and the name has become synonymous with any rigid hulled inflatable boat across the globe.

Original inflatable boat, made by ZodiacOriginal inflatable boat, made by Zodiac

Mr Alain Bombard founded Bombard Inflatables after crossing the Atlantic unsupported in a 4.5m Zodiac in 1952. Bombard Inflatables is now a subsidiary of Zodiac and together they are the largest producer of RIBs in the world.

Alain Bombard, founder of Bombard InflatablesAlain Bombard, founder of Bombard Inflatables

Zodiac and Bombard owners benefit hugely from the strength of the brand. Compared to lesser known and low-quality outfits, there is strong re-sale and minimal depreciation. There is also the main dealer warranty support from MGM and the long-lasting quality of the boats themselves. MGM regularly see 20-year-old Zodiacs which are still going strong with no issues and only minor wear & tear.

Some of the models featured in the promotion are as follows: Zodiac Yachtline 490, Bombard Sunrider 500, Bombard Sunrider 550, Zodiac Open 6.5 Gulfstream, and Zodiac Medline 6.8.

The Zodiac Yachtline 490 is a premium tender-style RIB with dedicated seating for 6 and plush leather upholstery. It comes with a high spec and an upmarket feel to it.

Zodiac Yachtline 490Zodiac Yachtline 490

The Bombard Sunrider 500 and 550 are a great family run-around with comfortable seating for 6 and multipurpose usability. They are easily trailerable and will do everything you ask of them during a day of boating. The 550 benefits from increased deck space.

Bombard Sunrider 550Bombard Sunrider 550

The Zodiac Open 6.5 Gulfstream is a capable package with a sports orientated layout and excellent sea-keeping characteristics. There is a lot of open deck space to facilitate activity such as water sports, fishing or swimming. This boat is still very easy to operate yet has the size and fit-out for longer journeys and more adventurous trips.

The Zodiac Open 6.5 Gulfstream’s deck space lends itself to watersports & activityThe Zodiac Open 6.5 Gulfstream’s deck space lends itself to watersports & activity

The Zodiac Medline 6.8 is the cream of the nautical crop. MGM’s best-selling RIB with over 30 units sold, this model does everything, and it does it in style. It has dedicated seating for 10 with space enough to carry 14 passengers. You will find sunbathing space, a proper table, a U-shaped cockpit, a ski mast, a fully kitted dashboard, a transom walkthrough, extended swimming platforms, a stainless steel bimini, wakeboard storage, and much more. The performance is exceptional with top speeds up to 55 knots and a solid hull keeping things comfortable in coastal sea conditions. This model allows owners to enjoy the best of boating whether with adrenaline junky friends or with kids and family.

Zodiac Medline 6.8 from MGM Boats offers everything you could need in a day boatZodiac Medline 6.8 from MGM Boats offers everything you could need in a day boat

MGM’s stock boats are available for viewing by appointment at their head office in Dun Laoghaire, and new owners can rest assured that they will be expertly guided throughout the entire sale process. MGM offers tuition and familiarisation as part of the purchase, so whether you are experienced or trying boating for the first time, you will be comfortable and confident when you take your new boat away.

The Spring Promotion is a significant cash discount on the retail price, and MGM is inviting customers to get in touch now to discuss viewing and taking the next step. Call in to the office, call 01-2802020 or email [email protected] today. It’s time to get on the water.

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About Electric outboard engines

The direct-drive component in electric outboard engines means that the electric motors are incredibly efficient compared to conventional marine combustion motors, operating with considerably higher torque whilst using less power.

Without any need for gears, cooling systems and moving parts the motors are maintenance free, highly efficient and economic to run.

As a result, electric boat engines are becoming more popular on Irish waters as the world transitions from fossil fuels to green energy.

To date, popular electric engine sizes have been trolling engines typically used by fishermen on lakes.

These marine engines are available in models that can be used in fresh water and sea water, for your boat or kayak.

Electric motors are Ideal for fishermen because they are quiet and create little in the way of disturbance 

Popular electric trolling models range from 30lb thrust to 55lb thrust in a range of shaft lengths.

But use is becoming broader now in 2021 and electric outboard engines are being used on small runabouts and RIBS where electric outboard engine sizes are getting bigger.

Outboard electric engines are economical and environmentally friendly. Battery technology is also improving at a rapid rate meaning they are becoming smaller and lighter and run for longer.

Built in hydro-generation provides alternative recharging options whilst under sail are also options meaning the electric outboard now has a home on the stern on small yachts and dayboats too.

As far back as 2014, Torqeedo owner Jack O'Keefe from Cork Harbour told Afloat readers of his sailing adventures in a Drascombe Coaster dinghy and how after swapping from a petrol version the rewards from his new electric outboard engine are less noise, no smells, more stowage, better sailing performance and a motor that can be started by a small child. But it's still not silent, there's a whine he says here 

Popular brands in Ireland are Torqeedo, ePropulsion, Pulsar and Minn Kota but there are more arriving all the time as the technology advances