The Australian brand Wimbi Boats launched in 2013 its first model, the W9 a semi-rigid 9.20 m (overall) outboard, available in an inboard version with the W9i . After 5 years of loyal service and more than 100 models sold worldwide, Wimbi Boats launches a new version, the W9II (2nd generation). In the same logic, the W10 II and W10i II will follow in 2019.
"The design has not been completely redesigned, we have kept the main lines of the boat. We took into account the feedback from customers, the press and professionals in the sector. This evolution is normal, we are obliged to evolve to adapt to demand explains Hiro Teranuï, importer of the brand in France.
If the W9 II while maintaining its family positioning, improvements have been made to optimize comfort while sailing and at sea. While the saloon in the bow and the large sunbathing area in the stern, with the rounded bench seat, as well as the central console, have been retained, new elements have been added.
A longer hull
euros, starting with a hull that has been lengthened by a few centimeters: 8.86 m of hull length for this new version compared to 8.80 for the old one. The structure has also been modified, notably the curve line on the bow, which improves stability, while moving the center of gravity slightly forward. With this new hull, the weight of the boat has also been lightened by 100 kilos, a significant gain, especially in single engine.
Equipment for use as a yacht tender
Wimbi Boats, which wishes to invest in the large yachting market by positioning its RIBs as a tender, has added a steel reinforcement on the bow, integrated into the hull. The W9 II can thus be towed by yachts at more than 25 knots.
A revisited console
The console has been enlarged to accommodate more navigation instruments and has a footrest. The front seat is now molded into the structure for greater comfort and covers an access hatch to the console where a storage space can also accommodate a toilet/shower. Finally, on the safety side, stainless steel handrails have made their appearance and allow you to stay on the water.
Not least the W9 II has a double leaning post with a folding seat, under which is a refrigerator. The old one was large enough for one person, but not enough for two
A rigid cover
No more roll bar on the W9 II, a rigid cover protects the cockpit, from the console to the aft bench seat. And the front saloon can now be protected at anchor with a cover installed on 2 removable carbon masts. A similar cover for the stern is under study.
Single engine only
No more double motorization, just single motorization! For the motorization, Wimbi Boat has chosen the new generation of Mercury engines. No more double outboard, but a lighter and more powerful single engine, a 300 HP pack. With the arrival of the new Mercury engines, the Australian shipyard is planning other engines to come: 350 HP, 400 HP, 450 HP and even 500 HP.
"We realized that the dual engine was not used much. With the single engine version, we also gain more space on the platform." hiro adds.
An inboard version will follow, called W9i II. The large trunk under the sunbathing area that serves as storage will receive the inboard engine.
Customizable colors
The W9 II comes in 3 different colors: Black and grey, black and white and white and beige. Customizations with other colors are possible on special request, like the model exposed in Cannes.
"We have a decorator who has created 5 different designs for us, a covering option at 2euros000 euros", concludes Hiro.
Very good marine qualities
We had the opportunity to test the boat in the bay of Cannes, in a light chop and with 3 people on board, and the least we can say is that the W9 II keeps the marine qualities we know from Wimbi Boats. The sea passage is very good and pleasant, the boat does not hit and reacts quickly to the orders.
With 300 horsepower, the maximum speed is 37 knots, which is more than enough for a family outing or a round trip to spend an afternoon at anchor. With 350 HP - 2 people on board and force 1 weather and a 200 L fuel reserve - the W9 II reaches 42 knots and 45 knots with 400 HP.
Price :
With 300 HP engine : 78euros290 euros HT
Without motorization : 51euros490 euros HT
