At 10 metres and capable of exceeding 58 knots, the Grand G980 is the most ambitious model Ukrainian RIB manufacturer Grand Inflatable Boats has produced in its 25-year history – and it shows.
Developed to close the gap between performance and onboard liveability, the G980 is built for owners who want to venture further without sacrificing comfort. Its twin-stepped, sharp-entry deep-V hull was designed in collaboration with Swedish race boat specialists Mannerfelt, delivering confident, predictable handling across a wide range of conditions. With 700HP on the transom, performance credentials are unquestionable – but the G980’s real distinction lies in what happens once the anchor drops.
Below deck, the double berth cabin is a genuine surprise. Standing headroom, multiple windows, easy access and generous natural light create a space that feels far removed from the typical RIB cabin. Configurable as twin berths or a full double, and finished with an enclosed electric toilet, integrated storage, charging points and ambient lighting, it’s a practical and comfortable space for overnight stays.
On deck, the G980 is equally considered. The aft cockpit centres around a fully equipped wet bar – refrigerators, stove, storage and sink – and seating that can be arranged as a wide rear bench, a U-shaped dining setup or a full wrap-around lounge. A folding rear bench with infill cushion converts the space into a sunbed in moments, while the bow offers its own social zone: a four-person sun pad that flips and expands to create a full-width sun lounge for six to unwind in the sun at anchor.
The options list extends the G980’s versatility further. A factory-fitted bow thruster and electric windlass simplify close-quarters handling in marinas and anchorages, while retractable sunshade extensions integrated into the fibreglass hardtop add shelter when it’s needed most.
“Grand Boats continue to set the new standard for rigid inflatable boats, and the G980 is no exception,” says Dan Arscott, Managing Director of Grand Boats Australia. “The layout and styling truly sets it apart in its category. The lounge areas are fully adaptable, storage is generous, and customers have been consistently impressed by the headroom and finish inside the overnight cabin.”
The G980 is the product of extensive development, drawing on feedback from customers and dealers across global markets. It continues Grand’s established design language – sharp lines, central console layout, negative angles – while representing a clear step forward in scale and onboard refinement.
For families who want to use their boat for more than just day trips, and for experienced operators seeking a RIB without compromise, the Grand G980 makes a compelling case.
