Why Protector Boats is expanding its superyacht customisation services

Over the past few years, I’ve noticed a change in the way superyacht captains talk about RIB tenders. The conversation used to start with models and options. Now it begins with objectives and expectations.

Where are we heading? How self-sufficient do we need to be? How much gear are we carrying? How comfortable does the vessel need to be for crew and guests?

A RIB tender isn’t just a transfer boat – it’s a working extension of the mothership. It has to be just as dependable and just as capable. And increasingly, it has to be built around the way each yacht operates.

That shift is precisely why Protector Boats is accelerating its commitment to supply fully customised superyacht RIB tenders and chase boats for captains and owners who need more than an off-the-shelf support vessel.

As superyacht itineraries become more ambitious and operational demands increase, today’s tenders must combine range, autonomy, reliability, comfort, and refined aesthetics into one highly capable platform. Protector’s latest developments meet these demands head-on, offering engineering-led customisation built around how captains actually operate.

Protector Personalisation

Protector has always had a reputation for robust, high-performance RIBs. The boats are built in New Zealand at the state-of-the-art Rayglass factory, and distributed in Europe by PB Europe, part of the Ancasta Group. What’s new is the level of detail Protector Boats delivers. Owners and captains want a craft that mirrors the ambitions of the mothership – whether that’s exploring remote cruising grounds, supporting onshore expeditions, or facilitating a range of watersports.

Captains don’t want compromises. They want a boat that fits seamlessly into their programme – operationally, visually and technically. So instead of simply selecting layouts or finishes, Protector Boats is re-engineering hulls, cabins and onboard systems to match specific briefs. It’s a much deeper level of personalisation that changes the scope of what a tender can deliver.

A step-change in design: The Targa 410 Expedition

A good example is the Protector Targa 410 Expedition we currently have in build. This design was driven by a client seeking an explorer-style chase boat for a charter adventure yacht. As superyachts head further afield – from the Norwegian fjords to the atolls of the Pacific – their tenders must be equally capable, autonomous and resilient.

In this case, we worked closely with two experienced captains, and every decision came back to how the boat would be used. This thinking led to twin inboard Volvo diesel engines replacing outboards to align with single-fuel policies, a redesigned cabin with more headroom and improved visibility via a raked windscreen, solar power for greater autonomy, SHOXS Helmaster shock-mitigation seating for extra comfort in rough conditions, expanded storage for water toys using a roof-mounted rack, and an upgraded sound system for guests.

It’s the sort of project where the engineering matters far more than the aesthetics. This is not cosmetic customisation, it’s engineering-led adaptation, driven by how these boats are actually used – often in challenging environments and far from immediate support.

Customisation across the Protector range

Customisation isn’t limited to larger boats either. We’re currently building a highly specified Targa 310 to operate from a Damen support vessel as a compact cabin tender and watersports companion.

The brief was practical and precise: a compact galley, enclosed toilet, freshwater washdown, overnight crew accommodation, and branding to match the mothership.

There’s nothing unnecessary – just the right features to make the boat more capable for the job, day to day. For me, that’s what good customisation looks like. It’s about making life easier for the crew, comfortable for guests, and more flexible for the main yacht’s programme.

We also customised a Targa 380 tender and chase boat that could be operated by the owner independently of his crew, giving him the freedom to explore with his family while enjoying exceptional performance and seakeeping capabilities.

Global build quality with local finishing

Protector Boat’s core design and boat building happen in New Zealand, supported by remote design reviews and detailed render approvals. For European deliveries, final finishing – including canvas work, shades and splash protection – is completed at Ancasta Yacht Services in Hamble. It’s a process that allows us to tailor the final details to where the boat will operate.

Protector Boats is also adapting to regional needs. With more yachts based year-round in the Middle East, they are incorporating integrated air-conditioning, extended shade, specialised decking materials and solar charging systems. These features ensure Protectors remain practical, comfortable and self-sufficient, even in extreme climates.

Commercial-grade DNA, refined for superyachts

What gives me confidence in all of this is Protector’s DNA. These boats were originally developed for police, pilot and naval work. They’re inherently over-engineered compared to most leisure craft.

That commercial grade build quality allows us to push the boundaries of what a luxury tender or chase boat can do, without compromising reliability or safety.

Looking forward

The modern superyacht tender market is defined by innovation, versatility and resilience. Protector is carving out a leading position by understanding how operations are evolving and by applying decades of professional marine experience to meet those changing expectations.

For owners and captains shaping the next generation of superyacht cruising, the appeal of Protector is clear: rugged reliability, exceptional performance, and ever-expanding customisation capabilities.