Bombard

A French brand belonging to the Zodiac Group, specialising in folding boats and RIBs.

Bombard is part of the Z Nautic Group, the French group behind Zodiac, and was founded around 1959 following in the footsteps of Dr Alain Bombard. In 1952, he crossed the Atlantic Ocean in an inflatable boat to demonstrate that shipwrecked people could survive, and subsequently lent his name to the brand. Within the group, Bombard is the accessible brand alongside the more expensive Zodiac, focusing on simple, robust and affordable boats that are sold in over ninety countries. The group manufactures in France, the United States, Tunisia and Vietnam, amongst other places.

The range comprises three main lines. The Commando is the foldable boat with a monoblock aluminium floor and a rigid keel, available in sizes C3, C4 and C5; the smallest measures 3.80 metres and can carry six people. The Explorer is the RIB range with a fibreglass hull, ranging from the 420 to the 700, which is seven metres long, can be powered by up to 250 hp and accommodates sixteen people. The Sunrider caters to the leisure market with a console and seating benches. The tubes are available in Strongan Duotex or Hypalon, designed for divers, anglers and tender use.

Facts & figures

• Part of Z Nautic Group, the French group behind Zodiac
• The brand name dates back to Dr Alain Bombard and his crossing in 1952
• The brand itself was founded around 1959 within the Zodiac Group
• Offers the Commando, Explorer and Sunrider ranges
• Builds boats ranging from approximately 3.8 to 7 metres in length
• Tubes made from Strongan Duotex or Hypalon