salpa soleil 18 review
Yacht · 20 ft (6 m) · Sarroch
expert score
Key specs
- Builder
- salpa
- Model
- soleil 18
- Length
- 20 ft (6 m)
- Guests
- 6
Verdict
A compact, well-built 20-footer that balances family dayboat practicality with lively handling. The Soleil 18 is best for coastal cruising and short outings, with sensible space and strong build quality, though overnight comfort is limited by the open layout.
Pros
- +Compact size makes docking and trailering easier than larger RIBs
- +Wide beam and open deck suit day cruising for up to 6–8 people
- +Single-step hull and moderate deadrise should deliver stable, efficient coastal running
- +Hypalon tubes and finished fit-out suggest good durability and resale appeal
Cons
- −Open layout offers little shelter for long-distance or overnight use
- −Cabinless design limits privacy and storage compared with cabin boats
- −Performance depends heavily on engine choice; underpowering will blunt versatility
- −Listed capacity and optional equipment can vary by package and market
The Salpa Soleil 18 is a compact rigid inflatable built around a simple, practical dayboat concept. At roughly 6 meters overall, it uses a relatively wide beam and a single-step hull to maximize usable deck space while keeping the boat easy to manage in marinas and on a trailer. The Hypalon tube construction and generally well-finished layout point to a model aimed at durability rather than gimmicks.
On the water, the Soleil 18 should feel more agile than its size suggests. Public specs indicate a recommended engine around 60 hp and a maximum of 115 hp, so the hull can be set up for relaxed cruising or more spirited performance depending on fit-out. The single-step hull and 25-degree average deadrise should help it track cleanly and stay composed in typical coastal chop, but it is still a small open boat best used within sensible conditions.
Comfort is good for daytime use, with space for family or friends, sunbathing areas and optional tanks and accessories depending on the build. However, there is no cabin, so livability is limited to open-deck boating rather than extended cruising. As a result, the Soleil 18 offers solid value for buyers who want a robust, versatile coastal RIB without moving up to a larger and more expensive cruiser.
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