bwa 550 review
Yacht · 18 ft (5 m) · Calasetta
expert score
Key specs
- Builder
- bwa
- Model
- 550
- Length
- 18 ft (5 m)
- Guests
- 6
Verdict
The BWA 550 is a compact 18-foot RIB that suits short coastal trips, novice skippers and small families. Its strengths are simple handling, shallow-draft access and sensible running costs; its limits are load space, shelter and long-distance comfort.
Pros
- +Compact 18 ft size suits easy trailering and docking
- +40 hp setup is simple and typically fuel-efficient
- +Licensed capacity for 6 makes it flexible for day outings
- +Shallow draft helps in bays, coves and beach stops
Cons
- −Limited protection from wind and spray compared with larger boats
- −Cabin accommodation is effectively absent
- −Space and stowage become tight with 6 adults and gear
- −Not ideal for rough-water cruising or extended passages
The BWA 550 is a small rigid inflatable built around practicality rather than luxury. At roughly 18 feet, it offers a compact footprint that is easy to launch, recover and berth, while still giving enough deck space for a small group. The layout is typical of a day RIB: open, simple and focused on versatility rather than interior volume.
On the water, the 40 hp class configuration points to modest but usable performance, with the benefit of low operating complexity and license-friendly use in many markets. The hull form and light weight should make it responsive and straightforward to steer, especially in sheltered coastal waters and short island-hopping runs. It is best viewed as an agile local cruiser rather than a fast offshore boat.
Comfort is adequate for day use, but limited by the boat’s size and open design. Seating, sun protection and stowage can be sufficient for a few guests, yet space tightens quickly at full capacity. With no meaningful cabin and only basic onboard amenities, it is not intended for overnight living.
In value terms, the BWA 550 makes sense for owners or charter guests who want a manageable, economical RIB for coastal leisure. It delivers a balanced package of simplicity, access to shallow water and low running costs, but buyers should not expect the refinement, protection or load-carrying ability of a larger yacht or cabin boat.
