Rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) have quietly carved out a larger role in Canada’s boating landscape. Once seen primarily in commercial or rescue applications, they are now increasingly common among recreational boaters looking for a balance of performance, durability, and versatility.

Among the brands contributing to this shift is BRIG, a manufacturer based in Ukraine. While the brand has long held a global presence, its growing visibility in Canada comes at a time when both the product category and the circumstances behind its production are drawing attention.

In Canada, BRIG is distributed by Sousa Marine Inc., led by Nuno Sousa, who has been working to expand the brand’s footprint across the country. Sousa Marine also represents AQS and Nordkapp, positioning the company across multiple segments of the performance and recreational boating market.

BRIG boats are hand-built using a combination of fibreglass hulls and inflatable tubes, with designs developed by teams of naval architects and aeronautical engineers. The deep-V hull configuration contributes to stability and control in varied conditions, while the inflatable collar enhances buoyancy and impact resistance. These characteristics have made RIBs particularly well-suited to Canada’s diverse waterways, from inland lakes to coastal environments.

What further distinguishes BRIG is the environment in which these boats are produced. Manufacturing continues in Ukraine, where the company has maintained operations despite ongoing regional challenges. The resilience shown by Ukrainian workers—continuing to build, assemble, and deliver boats under difficult conditions—has become a defining aspect of the brand. According to Sousa, maintaining consistency in both quality and delivery timelines throughout this period has helped reinforce confidence among dealers and customers.

The Canadian dealer network continues to expand, with Pomerleau Les Bateaux representing the brand in Quebec, Sunnybrook Yachts supporting Atlantic Canada, and CO2 Inflatables playing a growing role in Ontario. In particular, CO2 Inflatables has been increasing its visibility in one of Canada’s most active boating markets, helping introduce more recreational users to the RIB category.

Another element shaping the Canadian offering is the pairing of BRIG hulls with outboard engines. In Ontario and Atlantic Canada, Sousa Marine works closely with Suzuki Marine and Yamaha as an OEM partner, aligning with a broader industry preference for integrated, reliable propulsion packages.

Efforts to build awareness have also extended beyond traditional marketing. Sousa Marine will travel across the country, engaging directly with boaters and dealers to showcase the capabilities of RIBs in real-world conditions. A planned journey aboard a BRIG Eagle 8, scheduled for June and July, will travel from Quebec to the Thousand Islands, with the experience documented throughout the season.

As Canadian boaters continue to explore options that combine utility with recreational use, RIBs are gaining traction as a flexible alternative to more conventional hull designs. Their growing presence suggests a shift in how performance and practicality are being defined on the water.

For more information, visit www.sousamarine.com and follow along on Instagram to stay informed.