Zodiac Nautic (France)

Zodiac Nautic, designer of top-of-the-range, unsinkable inflatable boats & Rigid Inflatable boats. Present in over 90 countries with authorised dealers.

Zodiac Nautic is a French company known for manufacturing inflatable boats and vessels. Founded over 100 years ago, Zodiac Nautic gained global popularity by innovating in the production of inflatable boats and durable watercraft, including models for military, rescue, and recreational use. Zodiac products are known for their quality, reliability, and high seaworthiness, making them some of the most sought-after on the global market.

History of Zodiac Nautic

Zodiac Nautic began as a company producing airships but shifted its focus to inflatable boats after World War II. By the 1950s, Zodiac Nautic became well-known for setting new standards in inflatable boats, combining durability, reliability, and easy transportation. Today, Zodiac offers a wide range of boats for various purposes, from commercial and military vessels to boats for fishing and water sports.

Main Types of Zodiac Nautic Boats

 RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boats):

• Open Series: These boats combine a rigid hull with inflatable tubes, making them stable and comfortable to handle. They’re intended for leisure activities, water sports, and are among the most popular models.
• Medline Series: Designed for comfort and longer trips, these boats include spacious decks and are fully equipped for extended outings, making them ideal for day trips and family recreation.
• Pro Series: These boats are designed with professionals in mind and can be easily customized for various tasks, making them suitable for rescue operations, diving, fishing, and commercial work.

Inflatable Boats for Recreational Use:

• Cadet Series: Compact and lightweight boats for family water recreation, fishing, and short excursions. Cadet series boats are easy to pack and transport, making them especially popular among travelers.
• Classic Mark II & Mark III: These models are great for water enthusiasts and beginner users. They are compact, easy to handle, and stable on the water, making them ideal for those new to inflatable boating.

Key Features of Zodiac Nautic Boats

• Rigid Hull with Inflatable Tubes: RIB models combine a solid hull with inflatable tubes, ensuring stability and high performance even in rough conditions.
• Lightweight and Maneuverable: Zodiac boats are easy to transport due to their lightweight yet durable materials, contributing to their high maneuverability and ease of control.
• Durability and Longevity: Zodiac boats are made with high-quality materials such as reinforced PVC and Hypalon, which makes them resistant to damage and capable of enduring extreme conditions, including saltwater and sun exposure.
• Versatility and Modifiability: Zodiac boats can be adapted for different tasks, including rescue operations, fishing, diving, and family trips. The Pro and Medline series allow for the addition of accessories and equipment such as rod holders, canopies, and extra seats.

Materials and Construction

Zodiac Nautic uses advanced materials and technologies to create durable and long-lasting boats. Primary materials include reinforced PVC and Hypalon, which provide added resistance to UV exposure, saltwater, and chemicals. These materials are also easy to repair, extending the boat’s service life.

• Hypalon: This material is especially resistant to UV rays and harsh environments like saltwater and chemicals, making it ideal for boats designed for extended sea trips.
• Reinforced PVC: Used for added structure and impact resistance, this material is lighter and more affordable compared to Hypalon, making PVC boats cost-effective while maintaining durability.

Popular Zodiac Nautic Models

• Zodiac Medline 7.5: This model in the Medline series is ideal for extended trips with comfort. The boat has wide seats, ample storage space, and comfortable relaxation areas.
• Zodiac Open 5.5: A boat for sport and family trips, featuring excellent maneuverability and high performance.
• Zodiac Pro 850: A model from the Pro series designed for professionals and commercial users. It is easily modifiable and has a durable rigid hull, capable of handling demanding loads.
• Cadet 310: A compact inflatable boat for relaxed water recreation. Suitable for short excursions and easy to transport.

Main Uses of Zodiac Boats

• Recreation and Leisure: The Open and Medline series are ideal for family recreation and water sports, providing comfort and stability on the water.
• Fishing: Thanks to their customization options, Pro series boats are excellent for fishing, with options for adding rod holders, canopies, and other accessories.
• Rescue Operations: Rigid inflatable Zodiac boats are widely used by rescue teams and the military due to their stability and reliability.
• Professional Activities: Pro models and some inflatable boats are designed for commercial operations, such as diving, fishing tours, and transport services.

THE ZODIAC DIFFERENCE

• The Zodiac Difference is the high performance fabric. It is exclusive to Zodiac Marine and the Strongan is a 3rd generation plastomer which bonds impervious inner and outer layers to a heavy duty dense polyester support cloth. It is highly resistant to cuts and abrasions and is easily repairable in the unlikely event of a puncture. The difference is also a robotic hot assembly technique originating in the aeronautical industry. Much stronger, precise and far more reliable than old fashioned glued methods, the resulting seams are virtually indestructible Patented by Zodiac Marine, this system provides rapid inflation and deflation, allows easy adjustment of the pressure, is doubly airtight and well protected against sand and debris.