Zar Imagine 115, the cabin Maxi-RIB combining performance, comfort, and livability: video review

Zar Imagine 115: The Sea Trial

The strong personality of the Zar Imagine 115 emerges clearly from the very first seconds of acceleration. The thrust provided by the twin 425-hp Mercury Verado V10 engines is powerful yet consistently progressive, allowing the Maxi-RIB to get on plane quickly and reach high speeds with extreme ease.

But the most interesting feature of this RIB is its twin-stepped hull. The two steps built into the bottom generate a ventilation effect that helps reduce the wetted surface area, creating a literal cushion of air under the hull. The result translates not only into greater efficiency but, above all, into a remarkably smooth ride.

During the test, the boat proved to be extremely comfortable even at a cruising speed of 30 knots, maintaining a consistently correct trim and remarkable directional stability. Pushing the throttles all the way down, the Zar Imagine 115 reached a top speed of 48.6 knots—a highly significant figure considering the boat’s size, the presence of livable interiors, and the level of equipment installed on board.

Exceptional Seakeeping

One of the most successful aspects of the project is the quality of the hull. At high speeds, the Zar Imagine 115 conveys a feeling of total control. Turns executed at around 30 knots are precise and progressive, with no unusual leaning or loss of grip. Even when crossing its own wake, the bow maintains an incredibly composed behavior, effectively absorbing impacts and guaranteeing high levels of comfort for the crew and guests.

The response to acceleration when exiting a turn is also particularly impressive; a situation where the hull tends neither to drift wide with the stern nor to oversteer into the turn. Furthermore, during the trial, a 0 to 40 knots acceleration was clocked in just 18 seconds, confirming the boat’s excellent power-to-weight ratio.

Mercury Verado V10 425: Power, Torque, and Technology

The co-stars of the test, alongside the hull, were the twin 425-hp Mercury Verado V10 engines. Today, the Verado V10 lineup represents the pinnacle of Mercury’s offerings for high-performance boats. The propulsion system features a modern 5.7-liter naturally aspirated engine, designed to deliver high torque at low and mid-range RPMs, brilliant acceleration, and remarkably smooth operation. In the case of the Zar Imagine 115, the overall torque proved fundamental in ensuring quick holeshots, vigorous acceleration, and a steady progression up to top speed.

Moreover, on board the Maxi-RIB, the engines are integrated with latest-generation Mercury electronics, including a maneuvering joystick, autopilot, and the Skyhook system, which significantly simplifies docking operations and automatic position-holding. Ultimately, the combination of the twin-stepped hull and the 850 total available horsepower allows the Zar Imagine 115 to deliver top-tier performance without compromising comfort and ease of handling.

Generous Spaces and Maximum Onboard Livability

Moving on to the layout of the Zar Imagine 115, the aft area is dominated by a large swim platform that surrounds the two outboards, making both water access and boarding very easy. Immediately forward, there are two large sunpads equipped with adjustable backrests, capable of comfortably accommodating even tall guests.

The heart of outdoor living is the large central dinette, organized around two opposing L-shaped sofas, each served by its own table. This configuration allows for comfortably seating four to eight people for meals. The area is completed by a well-equipped wet bar featuring a sink, an induction cooktop, a refrigerator, and numerous storage compartments.

The defining element of this model is the large hardtop that shapes the boat’s silhouette. In addition to providing nearly total sun protection, this structure integrates lighting, an audio system, and numerous other technical features.

A Modern and High-Tech Console

The helm station was designed with a strong focus on ergonomics. In front of the pilot are two large, configurable multi-function displays that show engine data, fuel consumption, electronic charting, and all necessary navigation info. The dashboard is completed by a sporty steering wheel, electronic throttles, the Mercury joystick, and a full array of controls dedicated to managing onboard systems.

Through the wide and protected side walkways, you reach the bow area. Here, a large sunpad has been created to comfortably accommodate two or three people, flanked by a forward-facing chaise longue that is likely one of the most pleasant spots on the entire boat while underway. This solution further enhances the cruiser vocation of the Zar Imagine 115.

The Interiors of the Zar Imagine 115: Two Cabins and a Head with a Separate Shower

Below deck, the Maxi-RIB surprises with its roominess. Forward is a cabin with a queen-size bed, while aft features a second cabin with a king-size bed positioned beneath the cockpit.

The head stands out for its generous dimensions and extreme comfort, thanks to the presence of a sink, toilet, and, above all, a separate shower stall—a layout that is still rare on boats in this category.

The interior layout comfortably accommodates four people for multi-day cruises, significantly expanding the boat’s range of use.

Conclusions

The Zar Imagine 115 represents a highly successful blend of sporty performance and cruising comfort. The twin-stepped hull ensures a stable and comfortable ride, while the 850-horsepower Mercury Verado V10 engine package delivers brilliant acceleration and a top speed close to 50 knots. However, what truly wins you over are the onboard spaces, the high build quality, and the genuinely usable interiors—features that make this Maxi-RIB one of the most complete offerings available in its segment today.

Zar Imagine 115 Technical Specifications