There are shipyards that don’t follow trends—they create them. Scanner Marine is one of these. For over thirty years, Donato Montemitro and his team have been writing the history of the Italian maxi-RIB, bringing into the luxury inflatable segment a culture of design and build quality that has, over time, turned every model into an icon. From The International Yachting Media’s test center, located in Marina Porto Antico in Genoa, we’re lucky to climb aboard for an exclusive preview of their latest creation: the Scanner Envy 1300, a vessel that erases the boundary between RIB and boat, blending the sporting soul of the former with the refinement of the latter. The goal is ambitious: to combine the power of two 425-horsepower outboards with the livability of a twelve-meter cruiser. The result, as we will discover, is simply astonishing.
Scanner Envy 1300 Sea Trial
The day is perfect for putting to the test a hull as significant as that of the Scanner Envy 1300: the sea is almost calm, with a slight residual swell and a clear light that highlights the sharp lines of this maxi-RIB. At the stern, two Mercury Verado V10 engines delivering 425 horsepower each promise true sports-boat performance, for a total output of 850 horsepower.
Once we leave the berth, we move at idle speed at around 3.5 knots, and right away the boat’s balance is evident. Despite the absence of stabilizers, the boat stays steady on the water, with no rolling or pitching. This directional stability is an early indication of the hull’s quality.
A touch of throttle is enough to discover how responsive it is: at 14 knots we are already on the plane—almost instantly. No excessive bow rise, no hesitation: the transition from displacement to planing is smooth and progressive, exactly what you’d expect from a refined design.
We bring the speed up to 20 knots, the most natural cruising speed for a boat of this size. The GPS shows 4.8 liters per nautical mile, just over 90 liters per hour total consumption. These figures reveal a rare efficiency for a cabin boat over thirteen meters, a sign that the hull is working exactly as it should, with optimal trim and impeccable weight distribution.
We gradually increase the revs, reaching around 30 knots. Here, the Scanner Envy 1300 confirms its dual soul: sporty yet composed. At the helm, the feeling is one of great control; the bow cuts forward precisely, and the boat remains unfazed even when crossing more pronounced waves. Fuel consumption remains low—about 5.1 liters per nautical mile—and the overall impression is that of a craft designed to cover distances with ease, even at a brisk pace.
Then, inevitably, comes the moment for full throttle. The levers push the two V10s forward, and the response is instantaneous: 40 knots, then 41, up to a top speed of 41.9 knots at 6,530 rpm. Even at this extreme speed, comfort remains impressive: the boat stays composed, the hull cuts through the water smoothly, and the impact on the waves is absorbed without bouncing or sharp noises. The designer’s expert touch is clearly felt.
Turning performance is another strength of this boat: at 30 knots, without reducing throttle, just turn the wheel and the Envy 1300 dives into the curve decisively, leaning just enough but without losing grip or widening the turn. Counter-turning, it proves just as precise, tracing clean arcs even at high speeds. The G-forces are noticeable, but always within an environment of total control.
At 25 knots, the wake becomes flat and clean, a sign of excellent hydrodynamic efficiency. This is the ideal speed for long cruises: 4.3 liters per nautical mile, great range, and very high comfort. It’s the perfect compromise between performance and fuel consumption. We straighten up and cross our own waves: the hull enters softly, cuts through the water, and continues without vibrations. Even when the sea becomes slightly choppier, the boat maintains the composure of a much larger hull. By the end of the test, the feeling is of having in your hands a Maxi-RIB capable of combining power, elegance, and safety.
Scanner Envy 1300 – Test Data
RPM | Speed (kn) | Consumption (gal/h) | Consumption (gal/nm) |
|---|---|---|---|
600 (MIN) | 3.5 | 2.64 | 0.7 |
1000 | 6 | 5.28 | 0.87 |
2000 | 10 | 11.89 | 1.89 |
3500 | 20 | 25.36 | 1.27 |
4000 | 25 | 28.53 | 1.13 |
4500 | 30 | 40.42 | 1.35 |
6530 (MAX) | 41,9 | 64.72 | 1.56 |
The Scanner Envy 1300 in detail
At the stern, Scanner Marine’s work reveals all of its design intelligence. Despite the presence of the two large outboards, the aft platform is wide, usable, and functions as a true beach club: perfect for relaxing at anchor or for easy access to the water.
A comfortable central passage leads to the convivial area, where two large side sunpads precede a U-shaped dinette that can accommodate up to six people. Aft of the T-top, a fully equipped bar unit with sink, induction cooktop, and a generously sized refrigerator turns this area into a perfect space for outdoor living, even during longer stops. Everything is designed for comfort and functionality, without sacrificing elegance or clean lines.
Under the large T-top, solidly integrated into the structure, the helm station is a concentration of ergonomics and rationality. Three adjustable standing chairs allow for both seated and leaning navigation, while the instrumentation—joystick, throttles, wheel, and bow thruster—is all perfectly within reach. The overall impression conveys that sense of total control that only a well-designed layout can offer.
The wide, protected side decks of the Scanner Envy 1300 lead to the bow, where a second large sunpad opens up, complete with two forward-facing seats and handrails on both sides. The spaces here are incredible for a boat just 13 meters long: the feeling is that of being on a much larger yacht.
Below deck, the concept of space is redefined. The interior height is remarkable, and the environments are designed to offer yacht-level comfort. At the center of the cabin, a king-size double bed dominates the space, flanked by two opposing sofas that enhance livability. To port, a cabinet with ample storage; to starboard, a bathroom with a separate shower of almost domestic proportions. Materials, finishes, and color combinations reveal the meticulous attention to detail that has always distinguished the Scanner brand.
Technical Specs
LOA | 13.00 m |
Max Beam | 4.00 m |
Design Category | B |
Passengers Capacity | 18 |
Max Power | 1500 HP |
