The AB-Inflatables Nautilus 13 DLX 2019 vs AB-Inflatables Ventus 10 VL 2015 comparison sits squarely in the category of decisions where specs alone won't tell the whole story — intended use, storage, and long-term ownership costs all factor in.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — AB-Inflatables Nautilus 13 DLX 2019 at 13,0 ft versus AB-Inflatables Ventus 10 VL 2015 at 10,6 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the AB-Inflatables Nautilus 13 DLX 2019 tips the scales at 612 lbs — 489 lbs more than the AB-Inflatables Ventus 10 VL 2015 at 123 lbs. That difference is meaningful if you're working within a half-ton or three-quarter-ton truck's tow rating, especially once you factor in a motor, gear, and fuel.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 40 hp, the AB-Inflatables Nautilus 13 DLX 2019 has a 25-hp advantage over the AB-Inflatables Ventus 10 VL 2015's 15-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.
Both boats are rated for 3 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.
At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The AB-Inflatables Ventus 10 VL 2015 comes in at 8 lbs per hp versus 15 lbs per hp for the AB-Inflatables Nautilus 13 DLX 2019. The lower the ratio the more explosive the acceleration — meaningful on a short RIB where bursts of speed, quick planing, and agility in surf or tight waterways define the experience.
Both the AB-Inflatables Nautilus 13 DLX 2019 and AB-Inflatables Ventus 10 VL 2015 are trailerable, which is a big part of the appeal at this size. You can store either at home, hitch up on a whim, and launch wherever the water looks good.
Bottom line: The AB-Inflatables Nautilus 13 DLX 2019 at 13,0 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The AB-Inflatables Ventus 10 VL 2015 at 10,6 ft wins on trailering ease, likely lower purchase price, and simpler docking — a solid choice for a buyer who wants more boat for less money.