Technohull Alpha 45 Review: Pure Adrenaline & Precision

Our test ended with a delighted sigh and that is basically all you need to know about the brilliant new Technohull Alpha 45. We took the newcomer for a ride late this May in the waters of Portorož, in ideal weather conditions – light northern wind, sunny day and calm sea – which allowed the new Greek RIB to shine. 

Slovenian Internautica was the first trade show to greet the new RIB outside Greece, and Technohull dealer Mennyacht went out of their way to bring the unit from Athens, register it and sail out – just for us. 

Pure power and 60-knot performance

The unit we tested was powered by three 400-hp Mercury Verado Racing outboard engines, which is not the highest configuration available, but we managed to get it to reach top declared speed of 60 knots. Again, although this isn’t the absolute top speed for a Technohull RIB, it is proof that when Technohull say slightly slower, it can still absolutely leave you breathless. 

Handling and fuel efficiency

We were equally impressed with the model’s excellent maneuverability and tight turns. This large RIB stayed calm no matter the speed, without any tremors at the stern – even in turns at 40 knots of speed. We enjoyed everything, even jumps on the waves we had just created. 

The speed we achieved was expected from the Mercury engines – at 33 knots (initial cruising speed) and @3,750 rpm, the RIB needed about 50 liters per engine,  @5,200 rpm the speed rose to 50 knots with a consumption of 100 liters per engine, while the top speed we reached was 60 knots @6,300 rpm (maximum) and 135 liters per engine. 

Custom layout solutions

During this unbelievably pleasant ride, we learned a lot about working with Technohull from Mennyacht’s Miha Dolinar. For example, we have learned every Technohull was completely customizable, both in terms of the number and power of the engines, but also in terms of the number of seats, the wet bar, the stern bench and the stern sunbathing area – all of which can be moved depending on the configuration and on the needed number of seats. 

Many Technohull RIBs are used as chase tenders for larger yachts, so seating capacity is important (which is why the new model has reinforced tow-fittings), or as villa tenders, and offers more in terms of experience at sea, for villa guests. 

Our unit was customized to specific needs of a most demanding owner, with a lovely aft bench and a large aft sundeck, with in front of it one additional seat hiding two fridges (drawer type, below seating). Farther astern on the left, there is a side passage, a small platform by the engines and stairs for sea access. We couldn’t help noticing all built-in cleats were retractable, which may not increase their functionality, but it does add a sporty dimension. 

Smart helm features

The unit we tested boasted brilliant white tubes and white gelcoat, along with white leather upholstery which all matched the artificial teak in the cockpit so well. Also custom were slightly larger screens on the dashboard, a night-vision camera and radar, as well as a joystick with 'skyhook' capability, which, combined with the built-in bow thruster, makes maneuvering in the harbor a breeze. 

The skipper’s seat is protected with a carbon hard-top, and the aft equipped with a carbon-support awning.  We loved the three seats (skipper’s plus two) with suspension, which is a standard solution for this Technohull model, as well as the small electrically operated flaps that block the wind on each side of the command console. 

Below-deck comfort for two

In front of them, the entrance to the cabin opens upwards at the press of a button, like doors on fancy supercars. The double cabin is super-useful for long periods at sea for a couple, or simply for a longer, overnight stay at a location. 

Adjacent to the cabin, there is a small head/toilet astern, and the wide bed is served by a window and a small closet, left of the headboard. Farther on the bow, the large sundeck hides anchor storage. 

The new Technohull Alpha 45 is simply a dream come true, the perfect RIB that on top of all the smart and stylish details promises ultimate performance and safety.