Zodiac vs Highfield: comparison 2026

We pit Zodiac Nautic against Highfield Boats with the usual script: what each builds, with which materials, in which price range and which boater each makes sense for.

Zodiac Nautic Zodiac
VS
Highfield Boats Highfield

Comparison table

Zodiac Highfield
Country France China (international design)
Founded 1896 2011
Specialty Folding inflatables and leisure RIBs; the most recognised brand in the sector RIBs with aluminium hulls; world number 1 in the tender sector
Hull materials Fibreglass, Inflatable floor Marine aluminium
Tubes PVC (Strongan), Hypalon (CSM) on higher ranges PVC (Valmex), Hypalon (CSM) optional
Size range 2.3 – 8.6 m 2.4 – 9 m
Price level €€€ — Mid-high — you also pay for the name €€€ — Mid-high
Ideal for Those who prioritise brand prestige and an extensive service network Those who beach the tender daily and want minimum weight

Zodiac, in short

Zodiac is the brand that turned its name into the generic word for inflatable boats. Founded in France in 1896 (it started out building airships), it has been making inflatables since the 1930s and today offers everything from folding tenders (the Cadet line) to leisure RIBs over 8 metres. Its strength is recognition and service network; its weakness, that this prestige shows up in the price.

Strengths

  • Absolute brand recognition: in Spain 'zodiac' is a synonym for inflatable boat
  • Over a century of history and experience
  • Very wide dealer network
  • Good resale value thanks to the brand

Things to consider

  • The name comes at a price: costlier than equivalent quality from other brands
  • Entry ranges use PVC, not Hypalon
  • Less customisation than direct-distribution brands

Full Zodiac analysis →

Highfield, in short

Highfield was founded in 2011 with a clear idea: marine aluminium hulls for the tender market, inheriting the design of Australia's Swift Boats developed for the Great Barrier Reef. Today it is the world number 1 in the sector with over 54,000 boats delivered. Aluminium weighs less than fibreglass, survives beaching on stones and is infinitely recyclable. If your tender lives a hard life, Highfield is the benchmark.

Strengths

  • 100% aluminium hulls: light, beaching-proof and fully recyclable
  • Over 54,000 boats delivered since 2011; world #1 in RIB tenders
  • Huge range: from 2.4 m tenders to 9 m cruising RIBs
  • Official support boat at Vendée Globe, Invictus Games and other major events

Things to consider

  • Built in China (with Western quality control)
  • Aluminium transmits more noise and cold than fibreglass
  • Hypalon only as an option on many models

Full Highfield analysis →

Our verdict

Choose Zodiac if you fit its profile: those who prioritise brand prestige and an extensive service network. Choose Highfield if the opposite applies: those who beach the tender daily and want minimum weight. And if budget rules, Zodiac starts with a price advantage — though it always pays to compare specific models at equivalent specification.

Our practical tip: before deciding between these two, also get a price for an equivalent Navisoul model. With Hypalon available across the range and yard customisation, it often wins the comparison without the brand premium.

Frequently asked questions

Which is better, Zodiac or Highfield?

There's no single answer: it depends on use. Zodiac stands out for absolute brand recognition: in spain 'zodiac' is a synonym for inflatable boat, while Highfield stands out for 100% aluminium hulls: light, beaching-proof and fully recyclable. On price, Zodiac is usually the more accessible of the two.

Which is cheaper, Zodiac or Highfield?

In general Zodiac sits at a lower price level (mid-high — you also pay for the name) than Highfield (mid-high). The final price always depends on the specific model and configuration.

Are there alternatives to Zodiac and Highfield?

Yes. At dinguis.com we sell the Navisoul range (Caral Marine) and advise on any boat and brand on the market, as well as analysing them in our comparisons.

We help you decide

Tell us your boat, where you'll stow the tender and your budget, and we'll tell you which specific Zodiac, Highfield or Navisoul model fits best — with numbers, not fluff.

  • A comparison tailored to your case
  • Reply within 24 working hours
  • No obligation

Zodiac, Highfield or another? We can help

We reply within 24 working hours with price, delivery time and customisation options.