About this tender
The Goldfish X12 Explorer is the build we ask Goldfish Boat AS for when a programme demands genuine offshore range, twelve passengers, and a top-speed envelope that runs from 54 to 80 knots depending on the engine fit selected. It is the first model in the new X-series line and sits at the performance end of the range - not a tender derivative, but a purpose-built offshore platform with a partial explorer top that provides weather protection without closing the boat in.
Construction is GRP and CRP in vacuum sandwich infusion, a four-step deep-V hull designed by Pål Sollie. The result is a minimum displacement of 3,800 kg with an inflated beam of 3.6 metres that narrows to 2.75 metres deflated - relevant where trailer width or a tight tender garage is part of your planning. Draft to props is 0.90 m and bridge clearance sits at 2.3 m.
Goldfish offers two distinct engine routes. The outboard configuration runs three Mercury 500R supercharged 4.6-litre V8 units, each rated at over 500 hp, for an LOA of 12.45 m. The inboard alternative uses a twin Goldfish D-Max 445 diesel package; Goldfish project approximately 2.5 litres per nautical mile at 40 knots with a top speed above 50 knots on that setup. Both routes share the same 1,000-litre fuel capacity. We'd put both variants alongside the strongest Norwegian and Scandinavian offshore RIB builders at this length; the 3D configurator means your specification is not a catalogue exercise.
CE Category B offshore certification and a RIB-type X classification are stated on the manufacturer's specification sheet. The cockpit shelter system is available in either removable textile sides or a glass-pane enclosure with operable windows, giving captains a genuine choice between seasons without structural alteration. A cabin with toilet is standard; optional equipment visible in the configurator includes air conditioning, solar panels, chartplotters, VHF, audio systems, and both bow and aft anchoring arrangements.
Highlights
The four details we'd point out first to a captain who hasn't seen one on the water yet.
The X12 Explorer uses a four-stepped deep-V bottom laminated in GRP and CRP via vacuum sandwich infusion, designed by Pål Sollie. Minimum displacement is stated at 3,800 kg. The stepped configuration is suited to the 54-80 knot speed range published by Goldfish across the engine options available.
The outboard-powered variant fits three Mercury 500R supercharged 4.6-litre V8 outboards, each producing over 500 hp. This configuration extends LOA to 12.45 m and sits at the upper end of the quoted speed range. Trim and steering systems are specified to handle precision handling at high speed.
Goldfish's own D-Max 445 diesel engine is offered as a twin-inboard alternative. The package is projected at approximately 2.5 litres per nautical mile at 40 knots and a top speed above 50 knots. The torque curve is engineered to favour the lower RPM range, relevant for extended coastal passages.
Two shelter systems are offered: lightweight removable textile sides and a glass-pane enclosure with operable windows. Both convert the cockpit between open and enclosed configurations without structural modification. The glass option provides full enclosure while retaining visibility and the open-air character of the platform.
Goldfish provides a fully interactive 3D configurator at build.goldfishboat.com allowing buyers to select engine fit, shelter type, colour scheme, and optional equipment before committing. For captains and project managers specifying a vessel to an owner's brief, this reduces ambiguity in the ordering process.
Gallery
The full specification
Specifications, prices, availability, and performance figures are supplied for guidance only and remain subject to confirmation by the yard, seller, broker, survey, contract, and final specification.
Questions, answered
Last call · Available
Goldfish · Son, Norway
Tell us about your yacht, your programme, and the missions X12 Explorer needs to handle. We come back within 48 hours with a written assessment - fit for the brief, lead time, and trade-offs against alternatives in the same band.
Prefer to talk? +44 (0) 77180 88055 · other ways to reach us
From the library
