Owning or chartering a superyacht is the pinnacle of luxury travel, offering total freedom, privacy, and access to the world’s most exclusive destinations. But behind every seamless voyage lies a fleet of precision-engineered support vessels and equipment, with the superyacht tender playing a central role. Whether you’re exploring secluded coves, transporting guests in style, or embarking on thrilling water adventures, the tender is your indispensable companion on the open sea.
At Xscape, we’re often asked about the details that make superyachts and their tenders such a refined pairing. Below, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions from yacht owners, charter guests, and enthusiasts alike.
What is a Superyacht tender?
A superyacht tender is a smaller vessel designed to support a larger yacht. Think of it as your luxury shuttle on the water offering quick transport from ship to shore, ferrying guests and supplies, or serving as a platform for water sports and exploration.
Superyacht tenders range from compact RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats) for utility use to high-performance luxury tenders with plush seating, climate control, and cutting-edge navigation systems. Many are custom-built to match the mother yacht’s design, ensuring both performance and aesthetics align perfectly.
Why Do Superyachts Need Tenders?
While superyachts can travel nearly anywhere, they often can’t dock directly at small marinas, beaches, or shallow bays. A tender bridges that gap, offering smooth, comfortable transport where the main vessel cannot go.
Beyond practicality, tenders elevate the guest experience. Whether it’s arriving ashore in style for a private dinner, exploring hidden lagoons, or towing inflatables for family fun, the superyacht tender adds flexibility and enjoyment to every itinerary.
Many owners even have multiple tenders, each designed for a specific purpose: a limousine tender for guest transfers, a sports tender for high-speed adventures, and a utility tender for crew operations.
What Types of Superyacht tenders Are Available?
The market for superyacht tenders is diverse and innovative. Here are some of the most popular categories:
- Luxury Limousine Tenders – Fully enclosed, climate-controlled vessels offering VIP comfort. Ideal for discreet transfers in all weather conditions.
- Open Tenders – Sleek, fast, and versatile. Perfect for day trips, sightseeing, and short island hops.
- RIB Tenders – Lightweight, durable, and highly manoeuvrable. Often used as multi-purpose or crew tenders.
- Beachlanders – Feature bow ramps that drop down, allowing guests to step directly onto the beach without getting wet.
- Chase Boats – Larger, standalone support vessels carrying extra toys, supplies, and crew, ideal for extended cruising.
How Are Tenders Stored on a Superyacht?
Storage is one of the key design considerations in superyacht engineering. Smaller tenders are typically kept in garages, located aft or amidships, and launched via hydraulic cranes or side-opening hatches. Larger tenders or chase boats often travel independently and rendezvous with the main yacht at anchor.
Modern superyachts are increasingly integrating innovative tender launch systems, including floating platforms, submersible garages, and custom hydraulic lifts, making deployment seamless, safe, and efficient.
Tender Performance and Capabilities
Superyacht tenders are far from ordinary boats. Many boast powerful inboard or outboard engines capable of speeds exceeding 40 knots. Range varies depending on engine size, fuel capacity, and hull design, but most tenders easily handle medium-distance transfers between coastal towns, islands, and marinas.
Advanced models also feature stabilisation systems, jet propulsion, and hybrid or electric powertrains offering smooth performance, reduced noise, and minimal environmental impact.
For owners who value sustainability, electric tenders are becoming a popular choice, combining silent operation with zero emissions.
Can Superyacht Tenders Be Customised?
Absolutely. One of the most exciting aspects of owning a superyacht tender is the ability to fully customise it. From hull colour and upholstery to onboard technology and layout, every detail can be tailored to complement the main yacht’s aesthetics and reflect the owner’s lifestyle. Leading tender manufacturers collaborate closely with naval architects and interior designers to ensure each vessel delivers the perfect balance of functionality, style, and comfort.
Common customisation options include bespoke seating configurations, integrated refrigeration and entertainment systems, premium sound systems, retractable roofs or sunshades, and custom lighting or branding elements, allowing each tender to be a unique extension of the yacht itself.
How Do You Maintain a Superyacht Tender?
Like any high performance craft, tenders require regular maintenance to ensure safety, reliability, and longevity. This includes routine engine servicing, hull cleaning, and electronic system checks. Many superyachts employ dedicated crew for tender upkeep, ensuring they’re always ready for immediate use.
Storage conditions also matter. Superyacht tenders should be kept dry, covered, and well-ventilated when not in use.
For owners who charter their yachts, appearance and performance are key, as tenders play a big role in guest impressions and operational efficiency.
What Accessories and Toys Complement a Superyacht Tender?
The world of superyacht toys is vast, and the tender often serves as the perfect launchpad for adventure. Popular accessories include jet skis and Seabobs, e-foils and paddleboards, towable inflatables, diving and snorkelling equipment, and underwater scooters.
For many guests, the tender is the first step to a day filled with adrenaline, exploration, and unforgettable experiences on the water.
How Do I Choose the Right Superyacht Tender?
Selecting the right superyacht tender involves finding the ideal balance between functionality, aesthetics, and performance. Key factors to consider include the yacht’s size and available garage space, the number of guests, the tender’s intended usage (for transport, leisure, or utility), the preferred cruising destinations, and budget and customisation preferences.
Working with experts like the team at Xscape can streamline the entire process, from the initial consultation to final delivery. Professional guidance ensures that your tender perfectly complements both your yacht and your lifestyle.
The Future of Superyacht Tenders
The industry continues to evolve with advancements in electric propulsion, lightweight materials, and smart connectivity. Today’s tenders are quieter, more efficient, and more luxurious than ever, seamlessly blending form and function.
As sustainability becomes a key focus, expect to see greater adoption of solar-assisted charging systems, eco-friendly materials, and hybrid technologies without compromising speed or style.
Final Thoughts on Superyacht Tenders
Superyacht tenders may be small compared to their mother ships, but their impact on the overall yachting experience is immense. They embody the same spirit of innovation, craftsmanship, and freedom that defines luxury yachting itself.
Whether you’re exploring new destinations, entertaining guests, or simply enjoying the thrill of open water, the right tender transforms every journey into an unforgettable adventure.
At Xscape, we specialise in helping clients discover the perfect balance of performance, luxury, and practicality both at sea and beyond.