InflatableBoat.net
Introduction
Brief overview of the brand and model:
The Highfield Patrol 660 is a high-performance RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) designed for professional and recreational use. It combines durability, versatility, and manoeuvrability, making it ideal for a wide range of activities on the water.
Initial impressions and key features:
The boat impresses with its deep V hull, wide chinese, and large diameter tubes, ensuring stability, safety, and comfort even in rough conditions. Its modular design allows for various setups to cater to different operational needs.
Brand Background
History and reputation of the brand:
Highfield Boats is a leading name in the RIB industry, recognized for its commitment to quality, innovation, and performance. The brand is synonymous with producing boats that are durable, reliable, and suited for the most demanding conditions.
Notable achievements or innovations in the inflatable boat industry:
The brand is known for its pioneering use of aluminium in RIB construction, providing boats with enhanced strength, durability, and longevity.
Specifications and Features
Specifications and Features
Detailed Specifications
- Overall Length: 6.51 m / 21’4″
- Internal Length: 4.75 m / 15’7″
- Overall Width: 2.59 m / 8’6″
- Internal Width: 1.35 m / 4’5″
- Dead Rise: 26 degrees
- Tube Diameter: 58 cm / 23″
- Number of Air Chambers: 6
- Maximum Load: 1287 kg / 2837 lbs
- Maximum People: 13
- Boat Only Weight: 740 kg / 1631 lbs
- Recommended Power: 150 hp
- Maximum Power: 200 hp
- Engine Shaft: Extra Long
- Fuel Tank: 140L / 37 gal
- Design Category: C
Unique features and technology:
- The Patrol 660 features ORCA® Hypalon tube fabric, high tensile chromated & powder-coated aluminium hull, integrated transom supports, and self-draining deck, enhancing its durability, safety, and performance.
Comparison with previous models or competitors:
Compared to previous models and competitors, the Patrol 660 stands out with its construction quality, capacity to carry large loads, and its ability to perform efficiently with modest horsepower.
Design and Construction
Design and Construction
Analysis of the boat’s design aesthetics and functionality:
The Patrol 660’s design emphasises practicality and performance, offering a layout that supports various activities without compromising on safety or comfort.
Quality of materials used and construction durability:
Built from 4.5mm 5083 aluminium plates with 6 and 10mm stringers and ORCA® Hypalon, the Patrol 660 is designed to withstand tough conditions and ensure longevity.
Portability and ease of storage:
While the boat is substantial, features like lifting points and towing eyes are designed to facilitate handling, transport, and storage.
Performance and Handling
On-water performance: stability, manoeuvrability, speed:
The boat is engineered to offer high stability, manoeuvrability, and the capability to plane quickly with modest horsepower, ensuring a safe and comfortable ride.
Suitability for different water conditions (calm lakes, rivers, ocean, etc.):
With its super deep V, wide chinese, and large diameter tubes, the Patrol 660 is well-equipped to handle a range of water conditions, ensuring versatility and reliability.
Load capacity and comfort for passengers:
The boat’s design ensures a high load capacity and ample space, providing comfort and safety for up to 13 passengers, making it ideal for various operational scenarios.
Setup and Maintenance
Ease of inflation and assembly:
The Patrol 660 is designed for ease of use, ensuring straightforward inflation and assembly processes, focusing on efficiency and convenience.
Maintenance requirements and durability over time:
Made with top-tier materials and robust construction, the Patrol 660 requires minimal maintenance, ensuring enduring performance and appearance.
Availability and cost of replacement parts:
Highfield Boats is known for excellent customer support, with replacement parts and repair kits readily available, ensuring the boat’s maintenance is hassle-free and cost-effective.
Accessories and Customization
Included accessories:
The boat includes ORCA® Hypalon tube fabric, a self-draining deck, integrated rear seat with cushion, standup console, bolster seat, bow locker with seat cushion, and more, ensuring immediate operability and comfort.
Available upgrades and customization options:
The Patrol 660’s modular design allows for extensive customization, including various seating configurations, storage solutions, and electronic installations, catering to specific needs.
Compatibility with third-party accessories:
The boat’s design likely supports compatibility with a wide range of third-party accessories, enhancing its utility and adaptability for different users.
User Experience and Reviews
Summarize user reviews and feedback:
User reviews are expected to emphasise the boat’s robust construction, superior performance in various conditions, and its adaptability to different operational requirements.
Highlight common praises and concerns:
Common praises would focus on the boat’s build quality, load capacity, and performance. Concerns might relate to the investment and operational requirements due to its professional orientation.
Price and Value
Pricing information and comparison with similar models:
The boat’s pricing would be analysed in comparison to similar models in the market, taking into account its features, capacity, and construction quality.
Assessment of the boat’s value for money:
The value assessment would weigh the Patrol 660’s build quality, features, performance, and brand reputation against its price, evaluating its overall value proposition.
Potential resale value and warranty coverage:
The boat’s high-quality construction and brand reputation suggest a favourable resale value. Detailed information on warranty coverage would offer additional assurance and value to the buyer.
Pros and Cons
Conclusion and Recommendations
Final thoughts and overall rating:
The Highfield Patrol 660 is a top-tier RIB, offering outstanding quality, performance, and versatility. It’s an excellent choice for those requiring a high-capacity, durable, and adaptable boat for various applications.
Recommended user profiles:
The boat is ideal for commercial operators, charter services, or groups requiring a reliable, high-performance boat with substantial space and load capacity.
Alternatives for different needs or budgets:
Alternatives might include smaller RIBs for casual use or other commercial-grade boats for specific requirements or budget constraints.
