Inflatable boats are evidently the best tenders for everything except considerably bigger yachts. They are a tricky purchase to make, considering that the productivity and the convenience of an inflatable boat would be dependant on a spectrum of factors.
On the water, an inflatable tender could be capricious. It could even lose to be more of a problem than a solution, especially when faced with inclement weather conditions.
Nevertheless, a great determinant of an inflatable boat’s usefulness is reliant on the type of inflatable boat that would best suit your purposes.
Enumerated below is a comprehensive guide that will assist you in making a more informed decision in this arena.
PVC and Hypalon
The two major elements involved in the composition of an inflatable boat are PVC or Hypalon. The two elements are differentiated on the parameters of cost and sustainability.
PVC inflatable boats are extremely lightweight and economical. It can be transported easily as it can be folded, adding to its portability. Apart from that, PVCs have also undergone several advancements and are now significantly more sturdy and durable. Some PVC variants have threads woven into the material, and that becomes the unit of measuring denier. A higher number would be indicative of the higher strength of the thread. This is not the only defining factor for its strength. A tighter weave pattern would be evidently more resilient in comparison. However, PVC is more vulnerable to elemental forces such as exposure to sunlight, humidity, and heat.
Hypalons are relatively heavier, more costly but an equally robust fabric for an inflated boat. They are used extensively for the production of heavy-duty RIBs. If you have an option to choose between these two, your decision would be veered by your intentions for the inflatable boat and the price you would be comfortable paying. If your inflatable tender were prone to exposure regularly, for instance, you would be better off investing in a Hypalon variant. On the other hand, if you want something more portable and will not be meant for regular usage, a PVC variant will be your best bet.
Air Deck and Rigid Slats
Inflatables provide an inflatable air deck or a built-in rigid floor that comprises interconnected aluminum or plywood slats. If you would like something lighter in weight and fairly easy to assemble, the inflatable air deck variant would suit your needs. However, it would mean that the ride would probably not be as comfortable as you would like it to be. On the other side, if you’re looking for an inflatable with faster speed, greater rigidity, lesser flex, and more efficiency in the consumption of power, a hard deck would be the one for you.
Supplementary Elements
You would need rudimentary accessories, like oars, seats, a pump, and a repair kit, that would be inclusive of the inflatable price. Make sure you get an inflatable that has multiple air chambers to ensure greater safety. You could also consider investing in some wheels that will transport an easier task when moving it up and down docks and beaches.
If you happen to be looking to purchase superior quality inflatables, you can rely on the name of MeloCraft Boats, based in Toronto, to cater to all your needs.