Tender boats have come a long way from their beginnings as simple auxiliaries to become essential pieces of luxury yachting. Originally designed to transport passengers, supplies or equipment between a main yacht and the coast, today these boats represent luxury, versatility and design at its finest. Brands such as Windy y Nimbus have been key in this transformation, taking the concept of tender to a new level of functionality and sophistication.

What is a Tender Boat?

A tender is a support vessel designed to complement a main yacht. Although initially used solely for practical tasks, today they fulfill multiple roles, such as:

  • Coastal exploration: Ideal for accessing remote coves and exclusive beaches.
  • Water sports and recreation: Equipped for diving, fishing, or wakeboarding.
  • Entertainment and social events: Spaces designed for comfort and onboard celebrations.

A Journey Through Time: The Evolution of Tenders

The first tenders appeared as an extension of commercial and war ships, but with the arrival of luxury yachts, their design began to evolve. During the 20th century, these vessels started to adapt to the needs of yacht owners, offering not only practicality but also comfort and style. Today, tender boats have transcended their initial role to become the soul of many nautical experiences.

Windy: Scandinavian Precision and Superior Performance

Since its founding in 1966, Windy has set the standard in quality and performance. Models like the SR52 Blackbird and the SLR/SR60 not only function as superyacht auxiliaries but also stand out as independent vessels with great technical and aesthetic capacity.

  • SR52 Blackbird: Marked Windy’s entry into the luxury tender market. With an elegant design and exceptional performance, it is ideal for both transportation and social events.
  • SLR/SR60: The current flagship of Windy. With a range of 800 nautical miles, design by Malcolm McKeon, and a hull optimized for stability and speed, it redefines the concept of a tender. It is perfect for exploration, diving, and onboard events.
  • SR44 Blackhawk: Designed to be versatile, the SR44 offers the best of both worlds: speed and comfort. Its configuration includes ample social areas, a functional swim platform, and a perfectly equipped interior for long excursions or private events. With a sporty and elegant design, it is one of the most coveted models in the range.

Nimbus: Versatility and Functional Design

For its part, Nimbus Boats has perfected multifunctional tenders with its T-Series range. These vessels combine Scandinavian elegance with outstanding functionality, offering a unique sailing experience:

  • Nimbus T11: Designed for long days on the water, this 12.4-meter vessel features ample social areas, a solarium, and a high-performance hull for sailing at over 40 knots. Ideal for families and large groups.
  • Nimbus T9: A 9.35-meter model perfect for sports and recreational activities. Its versatile design includes comfortable social spaces and details that optimize navigation in demanding conditions.
  • Nimbus T8: The most compact of the T series, at 8.15 meters in length, it is perfect for day trips or as a complement to a larger yacht. It offers a walk-around design, accommodations for two and outstanding performance at speeds in excess of 40 knots.

Key Features of Modern Tenders

  1. Versatile Design: From transportation to recreation, today’s tenders are designed to fulfill multiple roles.
  2. Technical Performance: High-end engines and innovative hulls for stability, speed, and fuel efficiency.
  3. Comfort and Luxury: Spacious areas, quality finishes, and details that reflect the sophistication of the owners.
  4. Sustainability: Incorporation of cleaner technologies and efficient engines to reduce environmental impact.

Tenders as Protagonists of Nautical Luxury

Tenders are no longer mere auxiliaries; they have acquired a central role in the nautical experience. Models like the SLR/SR60 from Windy or the T11 from Nimbus combine design, technology, and exclusivity, being essential for any luxury yacht owner. At Nautic Luis, as official distributors of these brands, we highlight the importance of these vessels to enhance our customers’ experience. We invite sailing enthusiasts to discover our selection in Empuriabrava, where they can firsthand experience the most outstanding models from Windy and Nimbus. Tenders are not just auxiliary boats; they are the next level in luxury and functionality at sea.