A range of 4 simple and modular models
Born in the 80's, the Marshall brand was until the 90's one of the European leaders in RIBs, just like Zodiac. Having gone bankrupt in the 90s, the brand made a comeback in the summer of 2020, bought by the Italian group Ribitaly, already owner of the brands BWA (RIBs) and BMA (rigid hulls).
The idea is simple: a range of 4 models from 5.50 m to 9.30 m available in two deck versions, Open and Touring (sunbathing at the bow and rear bench seat), with hypalon floats and polyester hulls. In keeping with this idea of offering a simple and modular boat, the brand has developed an exclusive partnership with Suzuki to offer turnkey boats, without options, with three different engine powers.
"We wanted to offer something new in terms of commercial approach. There are few boatyards that sell boats with an engine already installed. Suzuki was willing to partner with this iconic brand and has a range that fits all types of products." fabrice Boyer explained to us last June.
Focus on the M4, chic and simple at the same time
The M4 is the second model in the range, with a length of 6.65 m and a width of 2.75 m. It is in its Touring version that we were able to test it. And the first thing that caught our eye was the general look of the boat, with its black floats and red and black upholstery. The least we can say is that it's striking! If the layout remains simple - the very concept of the boat - the finishes are of good quality, stitching, logo, snaps on the console seat, stainless steel cleat on the rear polyester block... We also appreciate the handles slipped on the inside of the float which allow to stand on the stern while sailing.
The large bathing skirts perfectly frame the engine and facilitate contact with the sea. The port side skirt is equipped with a retractable swim ladder with fixed side handles. The cockpit is well protected by the height of the floats, you feel safe, both when sitting and when moving.
The rear of the boat is equipped with a double bench seat with a well-made stainless steel backrest. The backrests are removable and allow the bench seat to be lifted to access the technical hatch, but this system is not very practical.
The steering console is central to allow easy movement around the boat. The width of the gangways is nevertheless quite limited. It is equipped with a steering wheel with hydraulic steering and two navigation screens (GPS and rev counter). Well protected behind the windshield, the pilot can navigate in the dry. Handles and a stainless steel post also allow to hold on while navigating or to secure the movement. On the front, a console seat also equipped with handles welcomes a passenger facing the sea.
The bolster seat is comfortable to ride and has a handrail for safe navigation for standing passengers. There's an easily accessible, large storage hatch to stow gear in the polyester block on the front and a net on the back to keep important gear handy. A practical storage system.
A large sundeck covers the front deck, under which is a large storage locker. A small edge allows you to easily close the locker without pinching your fingers. Finally, on the bow is the anchor locker. A polyester reinforcement integrated on the junction of the floats at the front allows easy access or disembarkation of the boat. The only small drawback is the foot space between the front lockers and the console seat, which is quite limited, but which will allow you to get a good grip when sailing.
A boat for all boaters
With its simple, yet comfortable deck layout, the M4 will appeal to both speed and relaxation enthusiasts, or simply to families who enjoy a quiet anchorage in a sheltered bay. While the Touring version is also suitable for fishing, the Open version offers even more deck space, especially on the foredeck, which is empty of lockers.
A reliable marine RIB
It is in La Trinité-sur-Mer with a rather clear sky, sun and a wind of force 4 and a chop of 0,5 to 1 m that we could sail on the M4. Our boat was equipped with a single engine Suzuki 2 liters 4 stroke of 140 hp, the smallest of the powers proposed on this model, which can also receive 150 and 200 hp, and a propeller 3 blades 13,75 x 19. The fuel tank has a capacity of 190 L. In spite of the sea conditions that made the boat slam, it remains comfortable to pilot and to maneuver. The quality of the sea passage is remarkable, the hull gliding over the waves without too much trouble. In these conditions, the pilot remains well protected behind the console, but the passengers seated on the back will appreciate having a good wax on!
If the boat reaches 32 knots in maximum speed at 5900 rpm (70% trim), it is at a speed of 13 knots with a consumption of 13 l/h that the navigation by force 4 remains the most comfortable. From 17 knots (the boat's lift-off speed), and given the state of the sea, it is a bit more sporty.
The M4 proves to be seaworthy and playful, fun to ride and responds easily to the rider's commands, especially in the corners.
