Pirelli 35 OB: world first on the Maas

Since 2018, Bestboats International Yachtbroker is exclusive dealer of the PIRELLI | Tecnorib Tenders and Speedboats for the Benelux and Germany. After we already had the opportunity to go on the PIRELLI Rib 880 L Edition and its little brother the PIRELLI Jet Tender J33, now the brand new PIRELLI 35 OB (Outboard) is waiting for us in the Roermond Marina. At the sight of this new RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) we soon run out of superlatives. The P35 is two metres longer than the 880L, has a hardtop above the innovative cockpit, more seats on the front and rear decks and a comfortable cabin. And of course, as befits a true PIRELLI RIB, one striking style element is not missing here either, the profile of an F1 tyre on the tube.

World first
"The P35 is fast, sporty, stylish and luxurious," says Arie Drenth owner of Bestboats. "This speedboat is absolutely unique and had its world premiere with us. During a test on the water we recently reached a speed of over 50 knots. That is more than 90 km/hour. To achieve such a speed with a boat of this size is exceptional! Responsible for the speed are the two outboard motors that have a combined power output of no less than 600 hp. The two engines are kept in check and controlled in an innovative way at high speeds and when making sharp turns. Despite its length, manoeuvring out of the harbour is extremely smooth. "This is made possible by the many innovations on board. With the joystick you can smoothly sail into or out of any port and berthing at the quay is child's play."

After we have left the port, Arie presses the button under the joystick, activating the 'skyhook'. "This function takes over the complete control of the boat and ensures that it remains stationary in the water via the GPS. Ideal for bringing in the ropes, walking around or using the toilet. Even if there is a strong wind, a strong current or high waves, with skyhook you always keep the boat in the right position."

Engines
We sailed on the Maas towards Linne. There, on the waters around the lock, we will get to know the true power of this boat. Before that, Arie activates the cruise mode and we have plenty of time to take a closer look at the many functions, novelties and luxuries. Starting with the afterdeck. The presence of the two outboard motors conceals an enormous storage space under the rear (lying) bench. The back of this bench can be adjusted to create a large sun deck. The partially collapsible table offers room for six people on the bench, but there is also plenty of room on the inside of the gangway. The control console consists of a steering wheel, joystick and two clear 12-inch touchscreens. On the left display, parameters such as speed, fuel consumption, etc. can be read. The other screen controls the engines, (underwater) lighting and radio. On the display, we notice the button 'sports exhaust on/off'. After Arie presses the button, the two engines suddenly produce an impressive growling sound. "It provides an extra bit of atmosphere and experience whereby it seems as if you are sitting in a sports car such as a Lamborghini or Ferrari. If you want to have a quiet chat or enjoy the peace and quiet, just switch off the sound."

Safety
In contrast to the 880L, the P35 has a real cabin. This cabin has a bed for two persons, storage space, a toilet, a sink and a shower. With a headroom of 1,95 metres it is quite a spacious cabin, with enough comfort and conveniences to go out for a few days. Finally, the foredeck has a spacious sun deck. The high freeboard, the safe recessed walking area to the bow and the many stainless steel handles ensure a safe feeling on board.

Powerboat
We are now approaching the Linne locks. It's not very busy on the river Maas this morning. This means we can fully experience what the P35 is capable of. Arie opens the throttle and accelerates over the water like a rocket. The excitement makes the adrenaline run through our veins and we carefully watch the speedometer. Suddenly, Arie turns the wheel and makes a sharp turn. Despite the high speed, the boat remains amazingly stable and flat on the water. "The advanced computer system regulates both at high speeds and when making sharp turns for optimal stability. The so-called Power Trim system ensures that the engines trim under all conditions. If you look closely, you can see that the engines move independently of each other. This is also unique for a boat of this size and power. We feel like a fish in the water on the P35. Relaxed, we sit behind the steering behind the steering console and tempered glass. Only when you stick your head out at the side, you experience the brutal speed that this powerboat really has. Arie accelerates again with the P35 and easily reaches a speed of over 90 km/h. Amazing!

Personalise
The PIRELLI 35 is CE-B certified and designed for a trip up to wind force 8 and a wave height of maximum 4 meters. This means that in addition to a day of cruising on the Maas, you can easily cross the North Sea for a delicious cup of tea. But quality, speed and design of this category do come at a hefty price. The PIRELLI 35 in this luxury version costs no less than € 285,000 exclusive of VAT. An entry-level model (from €197,000) is already pretty well equipped, but there's still plenty to choose from to make the boat more personal. In addition to the choice of inboard or outboard diesel and petrol engines, you can choose the colour of the hull, upholstery and tubes or add extra accessory packages.

Heavily impressed we return to Roermond. The P35 is a powerboat of the outer category. PIRELLI has more than outdone itself with the Italian design, the innovative techniques and the high speeds on board. We are jealous of the new owner.
Pirelli P35 outboard
Price: € 285.000,- excl. VAT (starting price: € 197.000,-)
Engine: 2x Mercury F300 Verado 8 cylinder outboard engines
Power: Total 600 hp
Fuel: 750 litres (2 tanks of 375 litres)
Water tank: 750 litre (stainless steel)
Dimensions: 11.10 (length) x 3.80 (width) x 0.75 (draught) metres
Air draught: 3,06 meter (normal)

Article: Navenant June 2021
Text: Frans van Tuel