On test. Scanner Envy 950: ten meters of great class

On Test. Scanner Envy 950: a fast and refined RIB

It’s hard to think of any of the RIBs or maxi-RIBs built by Scanner Marine without conjuring an image of great class. Characterized by a strong personality, these boats are immediately recognizable for their distinctive and sophisticated lines. The Scanner Envy 950, which we tested, is certainly no exception to this concept. For the occasion, it was powered by two MerCruiser 6.2L 300HP engines. This sterndrive configuration offers the priceless advantage of keeping that stunning stern area clear to the eye.

Scanner Envy 950 Sea Trial

It’s a mild day that welcomes us today on Lake Maggiore. The Scanner Envy 950 awaits us at the mooring in its gray and taupe guise, which, although still lacking the teak inserts that will be added shortly, already offers a stunning visual impression.

We cast off, and even without the bow thruster, we easily maneuver out of the tight berth thanks to the Joystick System. There are four of us on board, and as we cruise at minimum speed, I am pleased to notice that there is plenty of space on board. This maxi-RIB could easily accommodate twice as many people for day trips.

At the helm, visibility is excellent in all directions. With the crew notified, I thus begin to accelerate to bring the Scanner Envy 950 onto plane. The thrust from the inboards is decidedly exuberant, and in the blink of an eye, we’re out of the water at around 12 knots, with the RIB continuing to increase its speed, free from drag.

At 20 knots, the Maxi-RIB stretches out completely and, without using the trims, glides flat on the water, leaving a perfectly clean wake behind us. At this speed, we consume only 30 liters per hour per engine, which is less than three liters per mile – remarkably efficient for such a refined Maxi-RIB. This is an economical cruising speed that allows for long-range navigation with very low emissions.

For those who prefer to shorten distances, this Maxi-RIB allows for smooth cruising at 4,500 RPM, reaching a remarkable 35 knots with a high level of comfort.

I push the throttles all the way forward, and the Scanner Envy 950 surprises me, accelerating even further. At 5,500 RPM, carefully adjusting the trim, we reach and exceed 44 knots.

But now it’s time to really push it. Staying at maximum speed, I begin to turn, drawing a wide circle while the Scanner Envy 950 leans slightly and continues without slowing down. I slow down and tighten the turn to try and challenge the RIB, but it unwaveringly executes the maneuvers without hesitation.

I counter-turn to seek out my own waves, which the Maxi-RIB crosses without any impact. The hull qualities of Scanner boats are well-known, and this one is certainly no exception—truly an excellent performance.

We slow down and enter Angera to dock. No sooner have we pulled alongside than a small crowd of curious onlookers gathers, lingering to admire this wonderful Maxi-RIB. The Scanner Envy 950 certainly does not go unnoticed, a quality far from secondary when judging a RIB.

The Scanner Envy 950 in detail

The RIBs produced by Scanner Marine have always been the link between the world of inflatable boats and traditional boats. The extensive use of fiberglass allows the shipyard to create internal structures that “push” the tubulars outward. Inside, you benefit from the view of the gelcoat instead of the more spartan appearance of the tubulars. This results in boats that are certainly more elegant and refined, with the added advantage of being more solid and stable underway.

The quality of the gelcoat finish and all surfaces, both visible and hidden, completes the picture of a shipyard that is, unsurprisingly, achieving great success.

The Scanner Envy 950 features an intelligent deck plan that, despite the boat’s length of 9.50 meters, manages to accommodate a large aft sunbathing area, the raised part of which is shared with the backrest of the U-shaped dinette sofa, which can comfortably seat four guests.

Continuing towards the bow, we find the central bar unit, which is shared by the two helm seats. The helm station structure deserves special mention, as it hosts a large amount of instrumentation and, on the left, the door leading down to the small cabin that the shipyard has somehow managed to create. This space includes a toilet, significantly increasing storage space, but it is also very convenient for changing clothes, resting, or, in an emergency, even spending the night.

Finally, we reach the bow, where there is a second U-shaped sofa equipped with a table that can easily be transformed into a second sunbathing area.

Conclusions

The Scanner Envy 950 is a fascinating RIB. On one hand, it is the perfect companion for all daily outings, and on the other, it also brilliantly serves as a tender for superyachts.

Featuring undeniable elegance, it is the ideal craft for those who want to stand out and reach luxurious destinations where this Maxi-RIB will certainly not go unnoticed.

Scanner Envy 950: Test Data

Technical Specs

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