Anura Plans IBEX Debut for Amphibious RIB and Tender Systems

New Zealand manufacturer Anura is bringing its amphibious drive systems to IBEX 2026 in Tampa, where it will meet North American builders and suppliers from 6 to 8 October. The company develops retractable wheel systems for craft that need to move independently between land and water.

Its market includes recreational RIBs, commercial craft and emergency-service boats. For superyachts, an amphibious tender may support a particular shore-access brief where a conventional landing and road trailer are unsuitable.

The wheels extend the launch options

Anura uses wheel assemblies which retract after launch, allowing the boat to continue normal waterborne operation. The capability can remove the need for a shore-based tow vehicle at an appropriate landing.

That does not make every beach suitable for use. Surface condition, slope, tide, protected habitats, permission and the vessel's clearance must all be considered before a crew selects a landing point.

An amphibious installation needs to be engineered around the hull and deck arrangement, not simply attached as an aftermarket accessory. Added mechanisms alter loading, space and sometimes access to propulsion and maintenance points.

Integration begins with the hull structure

Anura supplies systems in different sizes and configurations. Builders should review the correct model against displacement, wheel geometry and the craft's intended duty cycle rather than selecting by quoted boat length alone.

The company references installations on recreational RIB platforms including the Smuggler 800. Those examples show a market for the concept, but do not establish that every tender or hull will be suitable.

An owner should request details of landing capability under loaded conditions, expected maintenance intervals and how the wheels are secured underway. These practical matters affect reliability during guest transfers and remote excursions.

A wider North American builder audience

IBEX is Anura's first United States trade-show appearance, according to its event release. The occasion is intended to support contacts with builders and distributors, not to announce a completed contract with every exhibitor it meets.

Representatives can use the show to explain how systems fit a production or custom build. Procurement teams still need the current specification, installation drawings and service support for the region in which the vessel will operate.

Tender operation needs more than a beach approach

An amphibious tender can offer a new choice for an expedition yacht, but the mother yacht's stowage, launch-and-recovery limits and tender weight remain relevant. Its advantages should be reviewed within that complete operating arrangement.

The product is being presented as a specialist marine engineering option, with official product imagery available from the supplier. Yacht crews should distinguish its marketed access capability from a guarantee of safe passage onto any shoreline.

Primary source: Anura. Superyacht Guide prepared this article from the source announcement and its own editorial analysis.