Bombard

Bombard is a French brand of inflatable and rigid inflatable boats. Its identity is linked to the French doctor and explorer Alain Bombard, whose 1952 Atlantic crossing in an inflatable boat inspired the brand’s name and image. The brand has been associated with Zodiac Nautic and with boats designed for recreational use and maritime safety.

Bombard takes its name from Alain Bombard, who became known for his Atlantic survival voyage in 1952 and later for his work on liferafts and sea-safety research. The Bombard brand was then developed around the values of reliability, adventure, and practicality. Sources tied to the brand describe it as a French boat line with roots in inflatable craft and a long connection to Zodiac’s marine division. The brand story is used consistently in its official presentation and dealer literature.

Bombard builds inflatable boats and rigid inflatable boats for leisure and utility use. Its range has included models such as the Commando line and the Sunrider series, which are aimed at cruising, watersports, fishing, and general coastal boating. The brand is known for durable construction, simple layouts, and the safety-oriented reputation inherited from its origins in survival and rescue craft. This makes Bombard a familiar name in practical small-boat boating rather than luxury yacht building.