Matching a inflatable non rigid Zodiac Bombard Aerotec 380 2012 against a deep vee Zodiac N-ZO 690 2012 means you're likely deciding between two genuinely different on-water experiences. Hull type shapes everything from ride quality and fuel burn to dock handling and resale trajectory.
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Zodiac N-ZO 690 2012 measures 22,9 feet overall (2012), giving it roughly 10,4 additional feet of deck space compared to the Zodiac Bombard Aerotec 380 2012 at 12,5 feet (2012). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Zodiac N-ZO 690 2012 tips the scales at 333 lbs — 238 lbs less than the Zodiac Bombard Aerotec 380 2012 at 95 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 250 hp, the Zodiac N-ZO 690 2012 has a 225-hp advantage over the Zodiac Bombard Aerotec 380 2012's 25-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.
Both boats are rated for 5 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 Zodiac N-ZO 690 2012 comes in at 1 lbs per hp versus 4 lbs per hp for the Zodiac Bombard Aerotec 380 2012. 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.
Top speed is rated at 52 mph for the Zodiac N-ZO 690 2012 and 27 mph for the Zodiac Bombard Aerotec 380 2012.
Both are inflatable designs, which means they pack down for compact storage, can be carried in a bag, and are dramatically lighter than equivalent rigid hulls. The trade-off is setup time and the need to monitor tube pressure regularly. Tube diameter differs: 1 ft. 6 in. (0.455 m) on the Zodiac Bombard Aerotec 380 2012 vs 2 ft. 2 in. (0.65 m) on the Zodiac N-ZO 690 2012 — larger tubes generally mean more buoyancy and a drier, more stable ride.
Bottom line: The Zodiac N-ZO 690 2012 at 22,9 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Zodiac Bombard Aerotec 380 2012 at 12,5 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.