Argos Nautic GT14: A European-Style Outboard-Powered RIB Tender
Argos Nautic of South Florida introduces the GT14, a compact, outboard-powered rigid inflatable boat (RIB) tender crafted for owners who favor European styling and functional design. At 13 feet, 10 inches long overall, the GT14 is intended to serve as a versatile ship-to-shore tender, a comfortable dayboat for short excursions, or a utility craft for larger yachts. The design comes from renowned designer Patrizio Facheris, who operates a studio in Bradenton, Florida and is known for sleek superyacht concepts as well as collaborations with established production builders.
Design and Layout
The GT14 emphasizes a clean, European-inspired aesthetic with a focus on efficient use of space. Its internal beam measures 4 feet, 5 inches, providing a practical amount of legroom and space for storage compartments below seating areas. The layout is flexible: the standard configuration seats six people comfortably, and owners can choose to customize the bow seating arrangement or add an additional bench to the port side of the center console. Adding the optional bench increases the capacity to seven passengers and creates a more social seating arrangement useful for family outings or shuttling guests to and from a larger yacht.
Performance and Power Options
Argos Nautic has positioned the GT14 to balance comfort, useful storage, and spirited performance. The standard propulsion choice is a 50-horsepower outboard, which the builder reports will deliver a top speed of about 26 knots. For owners seeking a faster top end, a 70-horsepower outboard is offered as an upgrade and can push the GT14 to approximately 31 knots. These power options give buyers the ability to match the tender’s performance to how they plan to use it—whether for leisurely transfers, quick passages, or towing light water toys.
Weight, Handling and Practicality
Weighing in at 925 pounds, the GT14 is light enough to be handled easily at a marina and to be hoisted by davits or cranes aboard a larger vessel. The relatively low dry weight also makes launching and retrieving simpler for operators using trailers or slipway rigs. The boat’s inflatable collar contributes to stability and buoyancy while the rigid hull helps maintain predictable handling in a range of sea conditions typically encountered close to shore.
Customization and Onboard Storage
One of the GT14’s compelling attributes is its adaptability. Owners can specify seating configurations to suit different missions—more luggage and provisions for cruising, or extra seating for guest transfers. Storage is built into the design to keep gear stowed and the deck uncluttered, with compartments sized for personal items, safety gear, and small equipment. The emphasis on practical storage and flexible seating underscores the tender’s role as a functional support vessel for larger yachts as well as a capable standalone dayboat.
Value and Market Position
The GT14’s starting price is reported at $26,400, positioning it as an accessible option for buyers seeking a high-quality, European-styled RIB tender without stepping into a larger size class. The combination of designer pedigree, practical layout choices, and two outboard power options gives prospective owners a range of configurations for different budgets and requirements.
Summary
In summary, the Argos Nautic GT14 is a thoughtfully designed RIB tender that blends European styling with practical features: flexible seating, sensible storage, a lightweight hull for easy handling, and measurable performance from either a 50-hp or optional 70-hp outboard. Its size and weight make it suitable for davit or crane operations, while customization options allow owners to tailor the boat to passenger transfers, short recreational trips, or utility tasks alongside a larger yacht. The GT14 offers a compact, stylish, and functional solution for those in the market for a modern tender.