A compact tender for varied trips

The Federlight 265 from 3D Tender is being shown at Interboot in the E-Boat Area, giving visitors a close look at a compact rigid inflatable boat with an aluminium hull. The model is presented for yacht-tender duties and short coastal or inland outings, where low mass and a robust floor structure can matter.

At 2.65 metres long, it is significantly smaller than a family dayboat but can serve different purposes when paired with an appropriate propulsion package. Its display in the E-Boat Area does not by itself establish that every version is supplied with an electric motor.

The practical measurements

The organiser's entry lists a 1.55-metre beam, a hull material of aluminium and a weight of 40 kilograms. The description also states a payload of up to 450 kilograms, an important distinction from the bare boat's own weight.

Before loading a tender, an owner must confirm the certified maximum number of people, motor limits and equipment allowance, rather than converting a headline payload figure into a passenger count. The full manufacturer label and documents are the appropriate reference for actual use.

Aluminium as a working choice

The manufacturer describes a marine-aluminium hull intended to combine relatively low weight with resistance to corrosion and impacts. The inflatable tubes supply buoyancy and a softer contact surface, while the rigid bottom gives the tender a more defined running shape than a fully soft inflatable.

Owners may be interested in these properties when considering lifting, stowage and repeated short transfers. The actual treatment and maintenance of both aluminium components and tubes still depend on the boat's materials and operating environment.

Choosing the right tender

A tender has to suit the storage available on the mothership or trailer, the lifting arrangements, typical number of passengers and expected waters. A 2.65-metre model can be convenient to handle yet may not accommodate the same loads or sea conditions as a larger RIB.

The official Interboot listing and exact boat photograph offer a starting point for comparison. Prospective owners should obtain the applicable motor rating, certification and local operating guidance directly from 3D Tender or its dealer.