Grand G980

The Grand G980 and Brig Eagle 10 are two of the most capable premium 10 metre RIBs available in Australia, and are closely matched on price; where they differ is in hull technology, package inclusions, and design philosophy

The most significant difference is the hull. The G980 runs a twin-stepped deep-V fibreglass hull rather than the Eagle 10’s conventional deep-V. A stepped hull draws air underneath as the boat planes, reducing drag and making the boat faster, drier and more fuel efficient at speed. The G980 has recorded top speeds of 58 knots with twin 350HP Yamahas and carries a 600-litre fuel tank, giving it the range for serious offshore and extended coastal passages without needing to refuel. If performance and efficiency over distance matter to you, the Grand G980’s hull is the stronger design.

The G980 comes with a Sleipner bow thruster fitted at the factory as standard, included in the package price, alongside Yamaha HelmMaster EX joystick control. For a 10 metre twin engine boat, the combination of joystick and bow thruster makes manoeuvring in tight marina and anchorage environments significantly more manageable.

Both boats have a centrally positioned helm and walkaround deck layout. The G980’s console is narrower however, opening up more usable deck space on both sides. The stern entertaining area on the G980 is also fully configurable, with seats that flip to sun beds, side seats that convert into a dining area for eight or more people, and a layout that adapts to however many passengers are onboard and whatever they want to do.

Both boats have a double berth cabin. The G980 is accessed through a full-size door that opens upward, allowing you to step down comfortably, while the Eagle 10 requires entry through a smaller side door, which has been noted by customers to be slightly more restrictive. Inside the G980 there is over 2 metres of headroom, multiple windows with privacy covers, fly screens, and generous storage under all bed areas.

On practical details, the G980’s fuel filler is at the stern, keeping fuel fumes away from passengers during filling, while the Eagle 10’s fuel filler is inside the boat. The G980 also has tube-mounted bow railings and railings at every touch point throughout the boat, recessed cleats throughout the deck, a flush-integrated swimming ladder (so your feet dont catch) and deep storage lockers that make full use of the hull space.

On design, the G980’s hand-moulded negative angles and clean angular fibreglass styling is a more contemporary and refined finish than the Eagle 10’s conventional flat lines.

Both boats at a similar price point in Australia, but the Grand G980 does come with more options as standard in the package. Ultimately, both the Grand G980 and Brig Eagle 10 are serious boats at a similar price point, and the choice often comes down to personal preference. If you value contemporary styling, a more technically advanced hull and a modernised internal layout, the G980 is the stronger boat. If you are already familiar with the Brig brand and its more utilitarian aesthetic suits you, the Eagle 10 is a well-proven option. We would always recommend getting on both boats before making a decision at this price point.