Rust Boat Guide
Rust boats: Rowboat (~125 scrap, slow) and RHIB (~300 scrap, fast). Both bought at Fishing Village Boat Shops. Used for fishing, Cargo Ship raids and coastal travel.
Two boats in Rust: the Rowboat (slow, cheap, fishing-friendly) and the RHIB (Rigid-Hulled Inflatable Boat — fast, more expensive, ideal for Cargo Ship raids and ocean travel). Both come from Fishing Village Boat Shops.
Rowboat vs RHIB
| Stat | Rowboat | RHIB |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | ~125 scrap | ~300 scrap |
| Capacity | 2 players (driver + 1 passenger) | 5 players |
| Top speed | Slow | Fast (3-4× rowboat speed) |
| Storage | Small (12 slots) | Larger (18 slots) |
| Fuel type | Low Grade Fuel | Low Grade Fuel |
| Pre-loaded fuel | 50 LGF | 50 LGF |
| Best use | Fishing, light coastal travel | Cargo Ship raids, fast ocean travel |
When to pick which
Cheap and fine for: fishing trips, exploring coastal cliffs, hopping between Fishing Villages, basic ocean fishing crate runs. Don't expect to outrun anything.
Fast enough to chase / catch the Cargo Ship event, transport 5 players to underwater labs, and outrun Rowboats in PvP. The serious water vehicle.
Frequently asked questions
Where do you buy a boat in Rust?
Boat Shop vendors at any Fishing Village monument (Small or Large). Rowboat is ~125 scrap, RHIB is ~300 scrap. Both pre-loaded with 50 Low Grade Fuel.
Is the RHIB fast enough to catch Cargo Ship?
Yes. RHIB top speed easily catches Cargo Ship's patrol speed. Rowboats can't — they're too slow to chase a moving Cargo Ship reliably. If you're raiding Cargo Ship, bring a RHIB.
What's the storage capacity of a Rust boat?
Rowboat: 12 inventory slots. RHIB: 18 slots. Both can carry plenty of loot but neither is comparable to a Modular Car flatbed for bulk hauling.
Can boats be destroyed by other players?
Yes — both Rowboat and RHIB take damage from any source (gunfire, melee, explosives) and can be destroyed. They're also stealable: any player can mount and drive them if you leave them unattended on shore.
Do boats need fuel?
Yes, both run on Low Grade Fuel. Rowboat consumption is light; RHIB burns faster due to higher engine output. Always carry spare LGF on long trips.