The smallest and smartest RIB we have built
Discover why size means very little once you take the helm
Let's begin with a look at the three different bow configurations available on the Airborne 5.4
Standard layout – flush bow deck
In the standard layout, the bow offers a comfortable seating area and a drained storage compartment. Ideal for those who value open deck space.
Additional storage and seating
This configuration provides an extended seating area and an additional storage compartment. The extra compartment provides dry storage for the bow cushions or your summer essentials.
Optional sun lounger
The optional sunbed platform folds out towards the driving console with a hinge. Simply attach the cushion and enjoy a generous lounging area.
It takes only a moment to set up, and just as quickly folds away when you want more deck space.
Select your helm seating
The Airborne 5.4 offers two ergonomic seating options that help you maintain control and comfort while driving.
Standard bolster seat
An ergonomic bolster seat for two. Offers storage under the seats and a storage net on the backside of the bolster.
Comfort chairs
Sporty driver and passenger chairs offer a fully customisable driving position. Use the lever to adjust the seat height, or adjust the cushion for two different heights. The chairs can swivel around to face the aft.
Customisable aft area
The Airborne 5.4 is the first Airborne model to feature three different aft layout options.
Standard sofa
Two-seat aft sofa with backrest. Includes dry storage, waterski pole, cup holders, sturdy handrails and wide walkways to the stern platform.
Extended sofa
Four-seat sofa with a wider backrest. Includes dry storage, waterski pole, cup holders and sturdy handrails. Foldable cushions allow access to the stern platform without stepping on the cushions.
Flush deck
Open aft deck for maximum space and freedom of movement. Includes cup holders.
Airborne 5.4 colours
You’ll be able to style your Airborne 5.4 with the following colour options. Whether you prefer a bold, sporty look or classic, understated tones, you can tailor your Airborne 5.4 to reflect exactly who you are.
Find your style
Hull colour: White
Interior colour: Pearl
Tube colour: Anthracite
Hull colour: White
Interior colour: Dune
Tube colour: Anthracite
Hull colour: White
Interior colour: Abyss
Tube colour: Anthracite
Hull colour: Dark grey
Interior colour: Pearl
Tube colour: Anthracite
Hull colour: Dark grey
Interior colour: Dune
Tube colour: Anthracite
Hull colour: Dark grey
Interior colour: Abyss
Tube colour: Anthracite
Hull colour: White
Interior colour: Pearl
Tube colour: Arctic White
Hull colour: White
Interior colour: Dune
Tube colour: Arctic White
Hull colour: White
Interior colour: Abyss
Tube colour: Arctic White
A bold new bow profile
By extending the waterline, the Airborne 5.4 handles like a larger boat. The result is a more planted ride that feels bigger and safer than most RIBs in its class.
Standout asymmetric tube design
Look closely at an Airborne RIB from the side, and you will notice something unusual. The tubes get narrower towards the stern, giving Nordkapp RIBs their distinct silhouette while serving an important purpose.
By tapering the tubes and lifting them slightly above the water surface, Airborne reduces drag compared to traditional RIB tubes that remain submerged at all times. At speed, the tubes sit just above the surface rather than dragging through the water.
This small difference changes the way the boat moves through the water.
Improved numbers on the dashboard
Because the tubes are not constantly dragging through the water, resistance is reduced. Less resistance means the engine works more efficiently, giving you higher top speeds while using less fuel.
Control you can feel in every turn
Anyone who has driven a RIB at speed knows what happens in tight turns. The G-forces push you to the side, forcing you to brace and reducing both comfort and control.
The Airborne tube design changes this. Instead of pushing you to the sides, the forces are directed downwards into the hull. You stay planted in your seat through corners, even at speed, maintaining control and comfort during aggressive manoeuvres.
In practice, you get the sporty handling of a centre console boat, combined with the extra safety and ease of use that define a RIB.
More onboard space
Anyone who has spent time aboard a 5-metre RIB knows that space is precious. When the tubes are thick all the way to the stern, they take up valuable deck space that could be used otherwise.
With the Airborne design, the tubes become slimmer towards the aft. That simple change frees up extra space where it matters most.
The result is a more open aft area, giving you and your passengers more seating space and more room to move around the boat without feeling cramped.
Less maintenance
Traditional RIB tubes sit in the water when the boat is moored. Over time, this leads to marine growth that must be cleaned to maintain speed and efficiency.
Because the Airborne tubes rest above the waterline, they are far less exposed to this problem. The result is less cleaning and more time doing what the boat was built for.
While others are stuck on land scrubbing their tubes, you are free to enjoy a day aboard your Nordkapp Airborne 5.4 at sea.
Scandinavian practicality
Foldable windscreen
A first on a Nordkapp RIB – making the windscreen and console easier to clean and reducing the boat’s overall height when stored, which is particularly useful in lower garages or tighter storage spaces.
Fixed 100-litre fuel tank
Focus on the ride itself rather than planning your next fuel stop.
Generous storage
Smart storage solutions are essential on a boat of this size. Storage can be found in the bow, the helm console, the helm bolster seat, the aft sofa and on both sides of the engine well.*
The engine well storage contains removable boxes, providing easy access to drainage and ventilation beneath.
*Depending on your chosen configuration.
Up next
In the next article, designer Espen Thorup reveals the thinking behind the Airborne 5.4 – and the unexpected design decision that shaped our smartest RIB to date.