Motta Visconti, Milan, Italy – Zar Formenti, leading European builder of a uniquely styled fiberglass rigid inflatable boat (RIB), will introduce its newest and largest model, the Zar Formenti 95 SL (9.5 meters) at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. A press conference will be held for marine media at booth, #1007 (across from the Electrical Tent) on Wednesday, October 30 at 6 PM to showcase the features of the new entry in the U.S. market. (In case of inclement weather, the “Rain Date” will be Thursday, October 31 at 6 PM).    

The most striking aspect of the Zar Formenti brand is its sleek Italian design and combination of a performance deep-V fiberglass hull with tubular technology, providing balance, safety, and stability. It is more of a powerboat than a traditional RIB, as its deep-V hull pierces the water and its transom extends further aft than other RIBs, providing a longer, smooth surface to cleanly cut through rough seas. In addition, its patented bottom, with a unique tunnel on either side of the hull, deflects splashback under the tubes, ensuring a dry ride for passengers. The tunnels and sharp chines also create a lifting strake, creating less drag, preventing bow rise and maintaining a flatter, more stable ride. The modular deck configuration adds more room and seating while the V-hull even provides for a windlass anchor compartment in the bow. While compact, the RIBs are comfortable and accommodating.

Zar Formenti uses the ORCA  rubber tubing system, which is secured to the fiberglass hull with an overlapped, double-junction attachment. The high tenacity fabric uses layers of chlorosulfonated polyethylene (CSM) and polychloroprene (CR) coatings, which are UV, fire, hydrocarbon and abrasion resistant. The precisely constructed boats are created in three factories, using 3-D modeling, CNC cut molds and virtual prototype testing to combine the highest technologies with detailed Italian craftsmanship.

“Zar Formenti, which is like the Ferrari of RIBs in Europe, looks forward to showing boaters in the U.S. another side of powerboating,” states Piero Formenti, who founded the company and produced the first boat In 1979.The Zar brand began in 1992. “We have built a reputation for performance, style and comfort across Europe and believe that when more boaters in the Americas experience the convenience, affordability and diversity of this boat, they may re-think RIBs; they are not just a tender or workboat, but are a true performance boat that can provide days of enjoyment-and even an overnight escape on the sea-all while enjoying true Italian design,” he adds.

The Zar Formenti 95 Sport Luxury boat is nearly 32′ long and can be customized with a variety of colors of gelcoat, deck and tubing per customer tastes. The show version features racy black tubes and gelcoat that has been specially treated to withstand long term UV exposure. The black hull is complemented by deep camel tan upholstered limo-style bow seating for 8, with a table that can transform into a sun pad; the aft deck has the same C-lounge seating with a table and sun pad option. Two ergonomic race-style seats front the helm’s full Raymarine Axiom 12″ touch screen navigation display, providing a “glass cockpit” design and networking for onboard electronics, including a chart plotter and Fusion sound system. A starboard entry door leads below the teak deck to a cabin with a full berth, separate standup head and shower and several storage areas. In total, the boat seats 16 people as a day cruiser, or can sleep two inside the cabin as a weekender.

Behind the cockpit, an outdoor galley includes a 2-burner gas grill, sink and a 2-drawer refrigerator, ready to feed and entertain guests. The boat strikes a sharp profile with a hard T-top, teak decking, swim platform extensions with fresh water wash and underwater lights. Powered by twin Suzuki 350 DuoProp motors, the boat can achieve tops speeds of 60 knots and cruises comfortably at 42 knots. The show version, specially equipped is priced at $279,000 and embodies the company’s tag line, “Daring to Stand Out.”

“The boat is very sexy and cool,” says Jeff Rodgers of Inflatable Boat Pro. He and his brother Ken, are the South Florida dealers, and also operate a separate service facility. “The show model Zar Formenti 95 SL was purchased to be a resort shuttle for people who want to go out for a waterfront dinner, take a sunset cruise or explore the area’s many on-water amenities. It is a great all-around boat–I’ve even used it for fishing and found it efficient and easy to maneuver,” he adds.

Zar Formenti 95 Specs:

• LOA:                        31′ 6″
• Beam:                      11′
• Draft:                       2.5′
• Engines:                   2x Suzuki 350 (700 HP)
• Displacement:           8,240 lbs. (wet)
• Fuel Capacity:           160 gallons

Zar Formenti 85 (8.5 meters)

Zar Formenti builds a wide range of boats from 10′ and up in many configurations for many uses. In 2013, the company created the ZF luxury tender line, ranging from 3-4.5 meters, which has been one of its most desirable due to its sleek lines, performance and capacity. With the SL line, the company seeks to expand on the outboard trend for boaters who want a manageable, fuel efficient boat or for adventurers who appreciate the versatility to travel economically in all sorts of water, from open oceans to shallow bays for fishing, island hopping, beaching or sandbar jaunts. The cabin, enclosed head and galley add the overnight opportunity for a romantic or small family getaway.

Zar Formenti is imported and distributed in North America and the Caribbean by Stefano Mazzanti at Euronautics Boats LLC. There are 10 other Zar Formenti dealers throughout the U.S., Canada, and the islands, with 90dealers in the worldwide network.    For more information call Stefano Mazzanti (813) 422-8151 or email info@euronauticsboats.com. www.zar-formenti.net. Visit Zar Formenti at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show at Booth #1007 with distributor Euronautics Boats LLC and Inflatable Boat Pro.

Zar Formenti is a long-term member and certified by NMMA, to stringent American Boats & Yacht Council standards.

High-resolution photography is available through md@prpower.biz upon request.   # # #