Port Angeles, WA – January 27, 2026 – BRIX Marine has launched a 12.5-metre (41-foot) NAiAD Tourist RIB. The Maui based owner, Makai Adventures, commissioned this custom vessel to deliver safe, comfortable and high-capacity passenger experiences in the demanding coastal environment off the coast of the island.
Designed to transport up to 40 passengers plus two crew, MAKAI combines a rugged 5086 aluminum NAIAD hull with refined onboard amenities and advanced marine technology. The vessel features a 19-degree progressive deadrise, welded lifting strakes and watertight bulkheads, providing exceptional stability, ride comfort and seaworthiness across a wide range of operating conditions.
Powering MAKAI are twin Yamaha XTO Offshore 450-horsepower outboards, delivering confident performance and reliability for commercial and adventure-based operations. Integrated Yamaha Helm Master EX electronic controls with electronic steering provide precise handling and intuitive maneuverability, while Zipwake dynamic trim control automatically optimizes pitch and roll for passenger comfort.
“Our team worked closely with the Shaw’s, the owners of Makai Adventures,” added Sales & Marketing Director Charlie Crane. “This was a big project for their company, and we were excited to help make it a reality.”
MAKAI is configured with a thoughtfully designed deck layout that prioritizes passenger flow, safety and flexibility. Seating includes multiple bench configurations with premium marine cushions and integrated storage, accommodating group tours while maintaining open deck space. Fold-down gunwale seating, adjustable table/bench arrangements and removable cooler seating allow the layout to adapt to a variety of tour and activity profiles.
“The all-aluminum canopy and perimeter bench seats that convert to tables are exclusive to MAKAI,” highlighted Perry Knudson, Managing Director of BRIX Marine. “Her boarding arrangement is also one of kind, combining the ‘swim club’ style doors with stern ladders outboard of the Yamaha engines. These features enable MAKAI’s owners to deliver a premium experience for their guests.”
Built for high-traffic boarding and water access, the vessel features side drop doors with swim ladders, aft swim platforms, multiple boarding ladders and robust handrail systems throughout. The D-shaped foam collar system with heavy-duty polyurethane outer skins enhances impact protection and durability in commercial service environments.
A fully enclosed head compartment with freshwater flush toilet, sink and solar ventilation supports longer excursions, while an integrated electronics suite – including Garmin navigation, AIS, VHF, radar-ready networking and Fusion audio — ensures situational awareness and onboard communication for crew and guests alike.
MAKAI represents the latest delivery in a proven 12.5-meter vessel platform developed for passenger vessel operators. She is the first RIB delivered to the island of Maui since the devastating fire in August 2023. MAKAI represents an exciting step towards attracting tourism back to Lahaina, Maui.
About BRIX Marine
BRIX Marine, originally Armstrong Marine, is a premier builder of bespoke welded aluminum vessels, trusted by elite tour operators worldwide. Our distinguished fleet – featuring catamarans, monohulls, and NAiAD RHIBs – is engineered to deliver elevated dive, snorkel, and eco-tourism experiences in the most breathtaking destinations.
About Makai Adventures
Makai Adventures provides ocean day trips and tours in Lahaina, Maui. Experience private tours for snorkeling & dolphin tours, sunset & coastal cruises, memorials at sea, ash scattering on Maui, vow renewals, proposals, and Maui whale watching with the best local guides. Unlike boat tour agencies that are big and impersonal, we are your local guides and enjoy sharing our favorite places. As a result, our guests enjoy fun, authentic, memorable and unique Maui adventures. Learn more about why people love us by reading our Reviews and experience the difference with Makai Adventures!
