Halma Rib HR 30 Outboard Trial and Charter Relevance
Alexandra
Two Mercury Verado 300 hp outboards deliver a combined 600 hp to the Halma Rib HR 30, producing planing characteristics and fuel-consumption figures that directly affect transfer scheduling, fuel logistics and charter operating costs for day-cruises and short coastal passages.
Sea trial: speeds, consumption and operational figures
The HR 30 was tested in the Gulf of Mondello under near-flat seas. At idle (600 rpm, ~3 knots) the craft showed exceptional low-speed stability—valuable for boarding and tender operations. At 11 knots the hull planes instantly and naturally accelerates to 16–17 knots without requiring Active Trim adjustments. Measured cruise points and consumption during the trial were notable for their consistency across speeds, simplifying range planning for owners and charter operators.
| Speed (knots) | RPM | Fuel burn (L/h) | Fuel per nm (L/nm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | — | — | — |
| 20 (cruise) | 3,000 | 46 | 0.34 |
| 25 | — | 61 | 0.37 |
| 30 | 4,150 | 80 | — |
| 40 | 5,000 | 105 | 0.33 |
| Top speed | — | — | 52.9 knots |
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Consistent fuel efficiency — the HR 30’s per-mile consumption remains almost unchanged as speed increases from cruise to high-speed runs. For charter operators and rental fleets this means predictable fuel bills for transfers, day charters and repositioning legs, and reduced risk of unexpected refueling stops when operating across island chains or long inlets.
Handling and seaworthiness
Hard-over turns at 30–40 knots revealed a hull that stays “glued” to the water, with the deck remaining dry and passengers secure. Even when facing 1.5 m waves head-on, the HR 30’s hull sliced through swells smoothly, delivering minimal shock loads and high passenger comfort. These handling traits are important for operators offering high-speed transfers between marinas or rapid excursions where both agility and comfort are required.
Layout, comfort and practicality
The HR 30 pairs exposed teak finishes and a widened bow with a walkaround helm configuration that enhances circulation and guest movement during charters. The console integrates forward-facing helm seats, a fridge, fold-out table and a compact galley with sink and induction cooktop. Beneath the helm sits a practical changing room with a toilet—important for full-day rentals and family trips. A large aft sofa and an expansive sunpad create social zones well suited to leisure charters, while a generous swim platform doubles as a beach-club area for water sports and boarding.
Key specifications and charter-relevant data
- Length overall: ~9 m
- Displacement (typical): 3–3.5 tons fully loaded
- Propulsion: Twin Mercury Verado 300 hp outboards (600 hp total)
- Top speed: 52.9–53.1 knots (acceleration to 53.1 knots in 19 s from standing)
- Comfort features: fridge, galley, toilet, sunpad, beach club platform
Operational implications for rentals and charters
From a fleet-management perspective the HR 30’s performance profile allows operators to offer fast transfers and extended excursion ranges without dramatically increasing fuel exposure. The combination of high top speed and efficient per-mile consumption supports flexible scheduling: same-day round trips to farther bays, efficient repositioning between marinas, and confident planning for regional itineraries where fuel availability is intermittent.
For skippers and charter managers, the HR 30 simplifies provisioning: predictable hourly fuel numbers make cost-per-passenger calculations and pricing of water-taxi or island-hopping services more reliable. The boat’s stability in turns and rough water also reduces crew workload and enhances guest comfort—an operational advantage in premium day-charters and private yacht tender services.
GetBoat always keeps an eye on developments that shape seaside vacations and sailing experiences; we understand what it means to enjoy freedom on the water. The GetBoat service values energy, the ability to choose your own course and the freedom to match a vessel to taste, budget and desired activities—whether for an intimate day sail, group outings or activity-focused trips like fishing and water sports.
Start planning your next seaside adventure: this test is unlikely to reshape the global tourism map, but it matters to sailors and charter operators. The HR 30’s combination of speed, comfort and predictable fuel use is particularly relevant for regional operators and high-end day-charters. To lock in dates and routes, start planning and make sure to book the best boat and yacht rentals with GetBoat before the opportunity sails away!
Highlights: the HR 30 demonstrates an uncommon mix of agility, stability and onboard comfort for a 9 m RIB. Its efficient fuel profile across speeds supports longer transfers and reliable charters; its beach-club aft platform and layout increase on-board enjoyment and extend activity options (snorkeling, fishing, swimming). Experiencing a new location by sea remains a multifaceted process where culture, nature, the indescribable palette of local colors, its rhythm of life and the unique aspects of service all play a part. If you are planning your next trip to the sea, you should definitely consider renting a boat (boat rentals, rent a boat, rent a yacht), as each inlet, bay, and lagoon is unique and tells you about the region just as much as the local cuisine, architecture, and language GetBoat.com
Conclusions and what it means for buyers and renters
The Halma Rib HR 30 is the result of two years of development that combine Italian craftsmanship and contemporary engineering: an elegant, practical layout that behaves like a larger boat in terms of space, yet delivers the agility and acceleration expected from a high-performance RIB. For buyers considering a tender, day-boat or a fast charter unit, the HR 30 offers an attractive balance of yacht-like comfort and true RIB performance.
GetBoat.com supports this theme by providing a transparent, global and user-friendly way to book or purchase boats, yachts and sailboats: comprehensive listings show make, model and ratings so customers can compare charter or sale options, choose vessels that match their activities — from fishing and diving to leisurely cruising and superyacht tender duties — and plan routes with confidence. The platform’s convenience and transparency simplify decisions across booking, charter and sale channels. Set your course today.
