Scanner Envy 950 Inboard Version: Video Sea Trial
Modern boating has seen a radical transformation of the RIB concept. As these vessels have rapidly evolved and grown in size, they have given rise to the market segment we now call the “Maxi-Rib.” In this landscape of luxury and high performance, the Scanner Envy 950 stands out as an entry-level model capable of embodying the perfect synthesis of pure aesthetics and top-tier seaworthiness.
In this detailed sea trial, we explore the secrets of the inboard version of this authentic masterpiece from the Scanner Marine shipyard—a nearly 10-meter vessel that sets new standards for space management, elegance, and versatility.
The Scanner Envy 950 is more than just a large-scale inflatable; it represents the ultimate missing link between the traditional RIB and a luxury pleasure craft. Thanks to unique and distinctive design choices, it guarantees the owner an uncompromising experience at sea, blending the safety of inflatable tubes with the sophistication of a fiberglass hull.
Scanner Envy 950: Design and Naval Architecture
Analyzing the design of the Scanner Envy 950, the signature trait that made the Lombardy-based shipyard famous is immediately apparent: the masterful use of fiberglass. As with all of Scanner’s most iconic vessels, the rigid structure encases the tubes from stern to bow. Beyond its striking aesthetic impact, this design serves a specific structural purpose: it protects the inflatable sections, increases the hull’s torsional rigidity, and gives the Maxi-RIB a sleek, elegant, and powerful profile, providing this inflatable with the solid feel typically found on traditional hard-sided boats.
The inboard version (or more precisely, the sterndrive) featured in our test offers an invaluable aesthetic and functional advantage: the transom remains completely clean, linear, and free from the visual and physical clutter of engines. This technical configuration allows for a magnificent, wide-open swim platform. Not only does this feature provide a refined, superyacht-inspired aesthetic, but it also serves as an incredible platform for easy water access, reboarding after a swim, or simply acting as the perfect space to lounge right at the water’s edge.
The Scanner Envy 950 Deck Layout: Limitless Space in 10 Meters
Despite measuring “only” 10 meters, the Scanner Envy 950 is truly breathtaking in its management of volume and deck space, which feels vast and optimized down to the very last square inch. Every area has been meticulously designed to maximize guest comfort during long days spent at anchor.
The Stern Area and the Cockpit
Moving up from the swim platform via a wide, comfortable step, you immediately reach an exceptionally generous aft sunpad. The cushions are so wide that at least three people can stretch out and sunbathe at the same time.
Moving forward, you’ll find the dinette, the true heart of social life on board. This space features a U-shaped sofa that can comfortably accommodate six to eight people. Serving this social area perfectly is an elegant wet bar located right in the center of the cockpit—as stylish in design as it is practical in use. It comes equipped with a modern induction cooktop and a sink, making it ideal for preparing quick lunches.
Underneath this unit, featuring convenient front-access facing forward, is a large refrigerator with enough capacity for bottles, cold drinks, and all the supplies needed for an entire weekend.
Scanner Envy 950: Helm Station and Bow Area
The helm station of the Envy 950 is a masterclass in ergonomics. True to Scanner’s rigorous traditions, it stands out for its comprehensive features and rational layout. The dashboard accommodates modern multi-function displays alongside sleek analog gauges—still widely appreciated for their quick readability and timeless appeal. Everything here is within arm’s reach, exactly where it should be, which translates not only to comfort but also to a high level of safety.
Moving to the far bow, the Scanner Envy 950 offers a second large sunpad. The intelligent design of this area features convertible cushions that allow the space to be used as a second dinette. Furthermore, with the addition of a clever contoured cushion, part of the lounge area transforms into a comfortable and spacious chaise longue. This allows one lucky passenger to enjoy the cruise from a prime, forward-facing vantage point.
The Scanner Envy 950’s Surprising Interior
While many Maxi-RIBs limit their interior volume to small, cramped changing rooms, the Scanner Envy 950 offers a surprisingly livable cabin below deck. It features a full double berth for two people, complete with a sink and a marine head. This configuration significantly expands the boat’s possibilities, allowing the owner to plan weekend getaways and overnight stays on board.
Propulsion: The Power of the Mercury Mercruiser V8 6.2 L
The version we tested was equipped with twin 350-hp Mercury MerCruiser 6.2L V8 gasoline engines. This setup proved to be a winning choice, representing the ideal configuration to highlight the hull’s dynamic capabilities. Being significantly lighter and more compact than their bulkier, heavier inboard diesel counterparts, these gas engines ensure optimal weight balance while drastically improving the boat’s overall power-to-weight ratio—delivering instant acceleration and unparalleled performance.
Scanner Envy 950: The Sea Trial
Our test took place under decidedly challenging sea conditions. Following heavy overnight rain and sustained winds, we were faced with a significant following sea. The sea state, which ranged from choppy to rough, provided the perfect backdrop to truly put this hull through its paces.
As soon as we reached open water, we pushed the throttles down to unleash the powerful thrust of the twin 6.2L MerCruiser V8s. The Scanner Envy 950 immediately surprised us with a rapid, clean transition to plane: this RIB gets on plane at just ten knots, maintaining an impeccable longitudinal trim and confirming the quality of its highly seaworthy hull.
Bringing the engines up to cruising speed, the GPS shows just under 25 knots at only 3,000 RPM. The ride is incredibly smooth, and the perceived comfort on board is excellent—a remarkable result given the heavy seas. Increasing to 3,500 RPM, the boat settles in at 30 knots: a fast cruise that the Envy 950 maintains with incredible ease. This is undoubtedly due to the hull geometry; thanks to a sharp entry at the bow and a perfectly dialed-in deadrise angle, we were able to run head-on into the waves as the boat sliced through them without any issues.
During turns executed at over 30 knots, the Scanner Envy 950 carves a perfect line; it feels as though you’re riding on invisible rails. Even in high-speed, wide-radius turns—a weak point for many other vessels—our maxi-RIB maintained a precise trajectory. Despite catching air over the large swells, it never slammed against the water’s surface, delivering a remarkably stable and safe performance.
Finally, we wanted to test the Scanner Envy 950’s top speed, pushing its performance to the limit in rough seas. With the throttles pinned, we reached a staggering top speed of 49.3 knots. In our standard acceleration test, this Maxi-RIB blasted past the 40-knot mark in less than 16 seconds.
In summary, these are impressive performance figures. While they speak volumes about the shipyard’s extensive experience, they also cement the Scanner Envy 950’s position as one of the best vessels in this size class ever tested by our magazine.
Scanner Envy 950: Performance Data
| RPM | Speed (knots) | Total Fuel Burn (L/h) | Efficiency (L/nm) |
| 600 | 4.0 | 7.6 | 1.90 |
| 1000 | 6.5 | 12.1 | 1.86 |
| 1500 | 8.0 | 19.4 | 2.42 |
| 2000 | 10.9 | 34.2 | 3.13 |
| 2500 | 15.6 | 45.0 | 2.88 |
| 3000 | 22.5 | 57.6 | 2.56 |
| 3500 | 27.3 | 75.2 | 2.75 |
| 4000 | 32.5 | 93.9 | 2.88 |
| 4500 | 37.0 | 125.9 | 3.40 |
| 5000 | 42.4 | 160.5 | 3.78 |
| 5500 | 48.1 | 184.1 | 3.82 |
| 5650 | 49.3 | 189.9 | 3.85 |
Scanner Envy 950 achieves maximum cruising efficiency at 22.5 knots (3,000 rpm), with an optimal fuel consumption of 2.56 L/nm. Test conditions: rough sea; 10-knot south-westerly wind; 2 people on board; 30% water; 20% fuel.
Final Thoughts and Pricing: Scanner Envy 950
After completing our sea trial, we can say with certainty that the Scanner Envy 950 is yet another resounding success for the shipyard. It is a vessel capable of being simultaneously sporty and elegant—highly seaworthy and impeccably finished. Its extraordinary handling, combined with the meticulous attention to detail found in every corner of the build, makes it truly one-of-a-kind in its class.
This is the definitive choice for those seeking a premium Maxi-RIB, ideal for both day-boating and quick weekend getaways. The starting price to enter this elite level of nautical luxury is set at 215,000 euro. It is an investment justified by superior build quality, the prestige of the Scanner Marine brand, and the guarantee of an unforgettable experience, regardless of the sea conditions.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About the Scanner Envy 950
What is the starting price for the Scanner Envy 950?
The starting price for the Scanner Envy 950 in this configuration is €215,000 plus VAT.
What is the fuel consumption of the Scanner Envy 950?
Fuel consumption for the Scanner Envy 950 varies based on speed and engine RPM. At an optimal cruising speed of 22.5 knots (3,000 RPM), the recorded total fuel burn is 57.6 liters per hour (L/h), which is approximately 2.56 liters per nautical mile (L/nm). Stepping up to a fast cruise of 32.5 knots (4,000 RPM), the consumption sits at 93.9 L/h (2.88 L/nm). At a wide-open-throttle top speed of 49.3 knots, total consumption reaches 189.9 L/h. These figures highlight the hull’s excellent efficiency relative to its high-performance output.
What is the recorded top speed of the Scanner Envy 950?
Despite the rough sea conditions encountered during our sea trial, the vessel reached an impressive top speed of 49.3 knots.
How does the boat handle in rough seas?
The handling at sea is flawless. The Scanner Envy 950 cuts through waves effortlessly, thanks to its sharp bow entry and optimal deadrise angle. Even during high-speed turns in heavy swell, the tracking remains incredibly precise, and the vessel always feels planted and secure on the water.
Is it possible to sleep aboard the Scanner Envy 950?
Yes, below deck there is a double berth, a sink, and a marine head.
Technical Specifications
| Length Overall (LOA) | 9.50 m (approx. 31′ 2″) |
| Maximum Beam | 3.30 m (approx. 10′ 10″) |
| Tube Diameter | 60 – 65 cm |
| Tube Material | Hypalon-Neoprene 1670 dtex |
| Watertight Compartments | 5 |
| Fuel Capacity | 500 liters (approx. 132 gal) |
| Water Capacity | 130 liters (approx. 34 gal) |
| Maximum Capacity | Up to 20 people |
| CE Certification Category | B |
| Engine Options | Outboard or Sterndrive (I/O) |
| Max Horsepower | 600 HP to 800 HP |
| Design & Engineering | D. Montemitro Design – Scanner Marine |
Sources & References
| Source | Document Type | Primary Content |
| The International Yachting Media (YouTube) | Video Review: Scanner Envy 950 | Layout description, interior features, engine options, and sea trial report. |
| Mercury Marine Official Data | Performance Data Sheet | Technical data on engine revolutions (RPM), speed (knots), and fuel burn (L/h and L/nm). |
| Luca D’Ambrosio | Journalist’s Navigation Notes | Firsthand impressions and measurements recorded during the sea trial. |
| Scanner Marine | Technical Specification Sheet | Dimensions, weight, capacities, CE certification, maximum occupancy, and engine configurations. |
