Highfield Classic 290

Highfield Classic 290

The Classic 290 is one of the most compact tenders in Highfield's Classic range, but don't let that fool you - this is a boat that punches well above its weight.

Built for four, with a 320kg maximum load and a boat-only weight of just 59kg, the 290 is one you can genuinely manage on your own. Wheel it down the slipway, lift it onto the davits, or lash it to the deck for the crossing - it's light enough to handle, yet solid enough to trust with your crew and your kit.

Step up from the smaller Classic 260 and you get a bit more room to stretch out without sacrificing the manoeuvrability that makes these tenders so easy to live with. It's the natural choice for short ship-to-shore hops or quiet anchorage exploring.

Highfield's aluminium hull construction means the 290 shrugs off the kind of knocks that would leave a lesser tender needing repairs - beach landings, rocky shorelines and the odd clumsy mooring included. Pair that with a rigid, planing hull and you've got a tender that tracks true and stays stable, even when loaded up.

Highfield Classic 290 Key Features

• Compact 2.90m footprint - easy to store, easy to launch
• Carries up to 4 people with a 320kg maximum load
• Just 59kg boat-only weight, ideal for solo handling
• 3 air chambers for reassurance and redundancy
• Rated to 20hp for a decent turn of speed once you're aboard
• Available with PVC or Hypalon tubes - see below to find your fit

PVC or Hypalon tubes?

The Classic 290 is available with either PVC or Hypalon tubes. In short: PVC offers excellent value and performs well for boats used seasonally and stored under cover, while Hypalon costs more upfront but offers superior UV resistance and longevity - worth it if the boat will live outdoors or see heavy use.

Read our full PVC vs Hypalon tubes guide for a proper breakdown of the differences, or get in touch and we'll help you pick the right fit for how you'll use the boat.

Highfield Classic 290 Spec

• Overall Length: 2.90m
• Internal Length: 2.06m
• Overall Width: 1.70m
• Internal Width: 0.79m
• Dead Rise: 15°
• Tube Diameter: 44cm
• Air Chambers: 3
• Maximum Load: 320kg
• Max Engine Weight: 56kg
• Maximum People: 4
• Boat Only Weight: 59kg
• Max HP: 20hp
• Engine Shaft: S
• Design Category: C
• Package Size (L x W x H): 250 x 105 x 43.8cm

*Maximum load includes crew and cargo. It does not include engine weight, fuel or water.

Compare the Highfield Classic Range

If you want to see the differences between Highfield Classic models, look no further than our guide: Highfield Range Comparison

FAQs

How many people can the Classic 290 carry? The Classic 290 is rated for up to 4 people, with a maximum load of 320kg for crew and cargo combined. That figure doesn't include the engine, fuel or water, so worth keeping in mind when you're loading up.

What size engine do I need for the Classic 290? It's rated to a maximum of 20hp, with a maximum engine weight of 56kg. That's plenty for confident ship-to-shore trips without tipping the boat into "over-powered for its size" territory.

How much does the Classic 290 weigh? The boat alone weighs 59kg, which is light enough for most owners to manage without a hoist. Add your engine weight on top when working out what you'll be lifting or towing.

Does the Classic 290 fold down for storage? The hull itself is rigid aluminium, so it won't fold flat, but the tubes can be deflated to reduce the overall footprint for storage or transport. It ships in a compact package sized 250 x 105 x 43.8cm.

Is the Classic 290 a good first tender? Yes - it's compact, light, and easy to manoeuvre, which makes it a sensible option if you're new to running a tender. The trade-off for that manageability is less capacity than the 310, so if you're regularly carrying five people, it's worth sizing up.

Highfield RIBs at Morgan Marine

We can supply Highfields as a boat-only option or as a complete "turn-key" package with a choice of outboard engines and trailers. Please contact our team for current stock availability and rigging options.

Highfield offers a robust warranty:
5 years on the hull structure and 5 years on the PVC fabric tube option (limited) or 10 years on the Hypalon fabric tube option (limited). As an authorised dealer, Morgan Marine handles the registration and any aftercare support you might need.

Still have questions?
The Morgan Marine team is here to help. Whether you want to discuss engine options, see the boat in person at our Brightlingsea showroom, or arrange a delivery, please contact us today.