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HomeBoat Show Previews & HighlightsAuckland Boat ShowSmuggler Marine: Where land meets sea with exceptional on-water and on-land performance

Smuggler Marine: Where land meets sea with exceptional on-water and on-land performance

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My experience of the Smuggler Strata 800 Mid Cabin was nothing short of exceptional. The conditions were calm but not smooth (10-20cm swells, 5-seconds apart), yet the boat handled with effortless composure. As we picked up speed—serious speed—it felt as though we were gliding across the water, with no harsh impacts, just a seamless, controlled ride. Spacious and well-appointed, it easily accommodated the four who were on board, making for a thoroughly enjoyable time on the water.

Smuggler Marine, chase boats at the 2025 Millennium Cup / Smuggler Marine – Facebook

But what truly set this vessel apart was its amphibious capability. Transitioning from sea to land was remarkably smooth—no complications, no delays—just a simple, efficient process. And with the same ease, we were back on the water. Manoeuvrability was effortless, reinforcing the boat’s intelligent design and engineering. The Strata 800 Mid Cabin is not only sleek and stylish but also a remarkably safe and capable vessel. If you’re in the market for an amphibious boat that delivers on all fronts, this one deserves serious consideration.

What a great summer / Smuggler Marine – Facebook

Smuggler Marine has been building boats for 40 years, producing a diverse range of fibreglass RIBs, amphibious craft, tenders, and trailer boats from 5 to 11 metres. Owners can customise their Smuggler to suit their needs, whether for fishing, diving, or luxury cruising. Every model is extensively tested to ensure a smooth, practical, and stylish ride.

Backed by decades of experience and rigorous real-world testing, Smuggler boats deliver the strength, durability, and performance you can trust.

Smuggler Marine is bringing an impressive lineup of amphibious and RIB boats to the Auckland Boat Show, located outside at Stand 20. Whether you’re after a high-performance centre console, a versatile amphibious craft, or a sleek, trailerable RIB, Smuggler’s range has something for every boating enthusiast. Here’s a closer look at the boats that will be on display.

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Strata 800 Supersport Amphibious

A new addition to the Smuggler Marine lineup, the Strata 800 SuperSport Amphibious is built for those who demand performance and versatility. Featuring Smuggler’s renowned 27-degree deep-V hull combined with Anura Marine Amphibious system, this high-performance RIB ensures a smooth, stable ride even in challenging conditions. On land, the fully retractable wheel system makes launching and beach access effortless—no trailer, no tractor, just seamless transitions. The spacious centre console layout offers ample room for fishing, diving, or simply taking the helm for an exhilarating high-speed run across the water. Designed for adventure, the SuperSport Amphibious blends performance and capability together in one exceptional package.

Strata 800 Supersport Amphibious / Smuggler Marine

Strata 800 Mid Cabin

The Smuggler Strata 800 Mid Cabin pairs Smuggler’s legendary 27-degree deep-V hull with Anura Marine Amphibious system, delivering a high-performance RIB designed for both land and sea. With a 250-litre fuel capacity and a range of customisable options, it’s built to suit diverse needs. Forget the hassle of trailers and tractors—just drive straight onto the beach, with retractable wheels that tuck neatly away for a streamlined look. The spacious forward lounge, accessible via wide side walkways, enhances onboard comfort, making it an excellent social space.

Strata 800 Mid Cabin / Smuggler Marine

Strata 750 Centre Console

Designed for serious performance, the Smuggler Strata 750 Centre Console is built to handle anything the ocean throws at it. Its 27-degree deep-V hull ensures an ultra-smooth ride at high speeds, making it perfect for offshore adventures. The open centre console layout provides unrestricted movement, ideal for fishing, diving, or socialising. Customisation is key—this RIB can be configured for use as a luxury motor yacht tender, a high-performance day boat, a commercial survey vessel, or a dive charter. It offers multiple engine options, including single or twin outboards and inboard stern drives, making it a truly adaptable platform.

Strata 750 Centre Console / Smuggler Marine

Strata 700 Amphibious

Blending versatility with cutting-edge technology, the Smuggler Strata 700 Amphibious features the Anura S25 system and a 23-degree deep-V hull, delivering outstanding performance on water and land. Its powerful amphibious system ensures superior manoeuvrability, even in tight spaces or on steeper terrain. The retractable wheels tuck away seamlessly into a recessed bow and D-tube aft, preserving the boat’s sleek, dry ride. Available in three different lengths to suit various needs, the Strata 700 can be customised with lifting points for use as a tender. Whether for coastal adventures or as a superyacht companion, this amphibious RIB redefines convenience.

Strata 700 Amphibious / Smuggler Marine

Strata 580

The Smuggler Strata 580 sets a new benchmark in mid-sized RIB performance. Featuring a 23-degree deep-V hull with precision-engineered planing strakes, this boat delivers remarkable stability, efficiency, and handling. Lightweight yet robust, it’s perfect for fishing, diving, water sports, and regatta chase boat duties. With an easy-to-launch design and effortless towing, the Strata 580 is as practical as it is exciting. Multiple console and seating configurations allow owners to tailor the boat to their needs, whether as a trailer boat, a tender, or a commercial survey vessel.

Strata 580 / Smuggler Marine

Strata 520

Compact yet powerful, the Smuggler Strata 520 offers exceptional performance in a smaller package. With the same 23-degree deep-V hull design as its larger counterparts, it ensures a smooth, stable ride in a variety of conditions. Ideal for fishing, diving, and water sports, the 520 is easy to launch, retrieve, and tow. A range of customisation options—including different console and seating arrangements—lets owners create a boat that perfectly suits their needs.

Strata 520 / Smuggler Marine

If you’re looking for a boat that combines world-class performance, premium craftsmanship, and the latest in amphibious technology, Smuggler Marine’s lineup at the Auckland Boat Show is not to be missed. Visit Stand 20 to see these incredible boats in person and talk to the team about custom options to suit your lifestyle.

 

 

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Boating NZ is New Zealand’s premier marine title devoted to putting its readers behind the wheel of the latest trailerboats, yachts and launches to hit the market. It inspires with practical content and cruising adventures, leads the fleet with its racing coverage and is on the pulse of the latest maritime news and innovation.

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