2023 Northstar Orion 8

Slide into the Orion 8 and the first thing you notice is how much real, usable space you get in a 26-footer. Wide side decks and deep freeboard make moving around safe and relaxed, even when the water gets lumpy. The helm layout is driver-focused, with everything in easy reach so you can run at speed without hunting for switches. Guests gravitate to the forward lounge, which feels more like a small bowrider than a typical RIB, and the aft bench gives you a social cockpit that still leaves room to move. Thoughtful touches like well-placed grab rails and non-skid surfaces show this boat was designed by people who actually run boats hard and often.

In these waters, conditions can change in the span of an afternoon, and the Orion 8 is built for that kind of variety. Its deep, efficient hull lets you skim across short, confused chop while the tubes keep spray down and the ride dry for everyone onboard. You get the agility to work marina traffic and narrow channels, yet enough offshore confidence to hop between sandbars, reef lines, and lunch spots. The compact footprint makes it easy to dock in tight slips or side-tie to a larger yacht, while still carrying a full crew and their gear for a full day of exploring.