Sealegs Interceptor 9000

The extra-wide 3m beam enables the provision of huge deck space and creates a very stable yet versatile work platform.
Targeted at both commercial and military applications, the Interceptor 9000 is … capable of an impressive 44 knots at a full payload of 700kg.

Sealegs International have released their newest and largest amphibious RIB to date – the Sealegs Interceptor 9000. PBR decided to take the plunge and find out what lies above and beneath the surface of this versatile craft …

Sealegs are based in Auckland, New Zealand, where the Sealegs concept of amphibious boating was first invented and where these extraordinary craft continue to be manufactured. Most of the boats are sold to, and used by, customers all over the world, and this year’s Auckland On-the-Water Boat Show, where the new Sealegs 9m Amphibious Interceptor was on public display for the first time ever as part of Sealegs’ 10-year anniversary celebrations, marked the production of over 1,000 boats, sold to customers in some 50 countries. Sealegs Corporation own 100% of Sealegs International Limited, who have developed a patented system of hydraulically motorised, steerable and retractable wheels for amphibious boats.

Targeted at both commercial and military applications, the Interceptor 9000 is powered by a 300hp Yamaha 4-stroke outboard motor and is capable of an impressive 44 knots at a full payload of 700kg. Complementing the exceptional blue-water performance of its 23-degree 5mm aluminium hull, the Interceptor 9000 is fitted with eight Jolt Rider shock mitigating seats, which ensure noteworthy passenger comfort in the most demanding water conditions. The extra-wide 3m beam enables the provision of huge deck space and creates a very stable yet versatile work platform.

The amphibious Sealegs system works by having powerful motorised wheels, which give the user a variable on-land speed of 0–7 km/h (forward and reverse) powered by an on-board 22hp Honda-driven hydraulic power pack. Designed to be rapidly deployed, the Interceptor 9000 can be driven from a storage location or trailer, down a launching ramp or beach and into the water – all with the occupants staying in the boat and remaining completely dry. Once in the water, the Sealegs wheels are easily retracted into the ‘Up’ position and are completely out of the water. The boat is then driven and used as normal. When approaching land, the Sealegs wheels are lowered into the ‘Down’ position while still moving in the water. Once on land, the craft can be lowered until the hull is touching the ground, allowing passengers to disembark safely.

The craft was developed using the same Amphibious Enablement Kit available to existing OEM boatbuilders, which clearly reflects the versatility of Sealegs technology. When asked about the rationale behind the creation of the Interceptor, Sealegs CEO David McKee Wright said the new model had been developed to meet market demand: ‘The Interceptor 9000 gives us a model with the size, passenger count and layout that many commercial and military operators have been asking for in an amphibious craft. It was developed in response to international sales demand and we’re excited at the sales opportunities this new model will bring.’

Specifications