Walker Bay Generation 525

Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs) are a niche market; designing one that sets new standards for design is admirable.

But Walker Bay, an innovator in several recreational marine categories, introduced a new RIB: The Generation 525, a 17-footer that exceeds expectations in function, design and comfort.

Plywood stringers are out. Walker Bay spent countless hours developing an improved polyurethane composite micro stringer system that results in a lighter, smoother ride. Behind the scenes, factory tooling includes a proprietary jig and alignment system that improves the accuracy of the RIBs track, lessens the likelihood of stress cracks and provides better handling. The Generation 525 has a unique approach to joining the hull and deck using a unidirectional glass and polyurethane grid bonding system that eliminates the air cavity found in other RIBs. This creates a stronger hull that’s far better at absorbing wave chop and a lighter-weight boat (at 1,160 lbs.) that’s quick to plane and faster to ride.

While it’s only natural to compare a RIB and dinghy — since they are somewhat like cousins — the Generation 525 inherits better looks. A spacious cockpit layout has more of a boat feel, including a flip-up driver’s seat for extra room while standing. A very welcome feature is the hydraulic tilt steering system.

Meticulous attention to detail includes recessed port and starboard teak boarding steps, a removable leaning post boarding handle, seven davit lifting points, six  stainless steel handrails, five cup holders and four pop-up, stainless steel cleats. While there is no partridge in a pear tree, the 10-gallon freshwater transom shower will be a welcome relief after a day of snorkeling or island gunk-holing. Actually, your pears, apples and grapes will all fit nicely in the insulated cooler locker.

Paired with a 115-hp quiet outboard, you may wish to add an optional retractable ski pole for towing the kids on tubes, wakeboards and skis; top speed is roughly 44 mph. One other tantalizing option is the bow area deluxe sun bed. Rated for 10 passengers, the Generation 525 has a 32-gallon built-in fuel tank. You will be amazed at how much space is available inside the 8-foot, 4-inch beam.