Inflatables Guide

Category: Dinghies

Best Inflatable Dinghies Comparison
Exploring the sea is a great way to relax and unwind. But, completely rigid water vessels are not exactly the easiest to bring with you, from land to water. Luckily, inflatable dinghies exist, which are more portable than your traditional solid boats.

However, the brand competition for such an item is quite intense, therefore it can be often hard to find a model that closely fits your criteria. But do not worry, ten of the best inflatable dinghies will be listed and compared below, so as to help you narrow your selection of products.

10 Best Inflatable Dinghies in 2021

Before we discuss each model, you should know that none of these items are ranked in any order. The following details will just serve as a point of reference for the comparison later, based on specific factors, such as price, features, accessories, and more.
1. HydroForce Caspian Pro Inflatable Dinghy Boat
This Caspian Pro inflatable dinghy boat from HydroForce is constructed using 4 PVC chambers, which are reinforced by high-density nylon. It also sports a high-pressure inflatable keel that complements its rigid floorboard, resulting in more stable performance. The floorboards are also easy to assemble, as well as the bench seats.

Dimensions-wise, the HydroForce Caspian Pro inflatable boat measures around 9’3” in length, and 5 inches in width. In addition, it has a carry weight limit of up to 1058 pounds, which is enough for 3 adults and 1 small child. But by itself, it only weighs about 99.7 pounds It is also compatible with an outboard motor of up to 10 hp. You can supplement this with the included aluminum oars.

Speaking of oars, this device also employs omnidirectional oarlocks, along with safety grab ropes, metal tow ring, and carrying handles. Aside from the included oars, you also get an air hammer hand inflation pump, a 33-feet towrope, a pressure gauge, and a carrying bag. Moreover, there is a built-in drain valve you can use to prevent water accumulation.
1. Newport Vessels Dana Inflatable Sport Tender Dinghy Boat
This inflatable dinghy of Newport Vessels is made from USCG-rated triple-layered 0.9mm/1,100 denier polyester and coated with anti-corrosive PVC. It also comes with a 24-mm thick aluminum-framed plywood floor with custom hard marine coating and an integrated drain plug.

When it comes to the build, the Newport Vessels Dana dinghy measures about 8’10” long and 5’ wide. As for the weight, it carries an overall heft of 101 pounds, but it can withstand up to 1,067 pounds of total weight capacity, which is good for 3 persons. It can even handle both 2-stroke and 4-stroke motors and fully supports up to 10-hp max outboard motor power.

For its inflation chambers, the Dana inflatable dinghy has 3. Aside from the main boat, this product also comes with an aluminum bench seat, 2 aluminum oars, a carrying bag, a foot pump, and a pre-packed repair kit. There are 2 mounted carrying handles, holders for your oars, and integrated towing D-rings.
1. Newport Vessels Santa Cruz Air Mat Floor Inflatable Tender Dinghy Boat
This Santa Cruz inflatable dinghy of Newport Vessels measures approximately 10’ feet long by 5’3” wide. It only weighs about 84 pounds and can carry up to 4 individuals, at a max load capacity of 1192 pounds. Its tube diameter is around 18 in. when fully inflated.

The construction of the Newport Vessel Santa Cruz dinghy is mainly composed of a USCG-rated triple-layer 0.9mm/1,100 denier PVC with a special coating, and a drop-stitch high-pressure air mat flooring. In total, there are 3 air chambers on this boat. It is also built with 2 mounted carrying handles, a one-way drain plug, oar holders with locks, and towing D-rings.

Apart from the main item, you will also receive 1 bench seat, a storage/carry bag, 2 aluminum oars, a foot pump, and a repair kit. You can attach either a 2-stroke motor or a 4-stroke type to this boat, up to a maximum power of 10 hp.
1. Tangkula New Inflatable Tender Raft Dinghy Boat
The overall dimensions of the Tangkula new inflatable boat measure around 10’5” by 4’10” As for the weight limit, it can support up to 1248 pounds, which is possible for 5 people to fill. Surprisingly, the boat is only 50.7 pounds light.

Some of the packaged accessories are a foot pump, a carrying bag, 2 oars, a repair kit, and 2 bench seats. It also comes with 1-floor joiners and 1 side joiners. The manufacturer recommends a 15-hp motor. In terms of chambers, this model uses a 3+1 setup.

The Tangkula inflatable dinghy is made using a combination of 3-ply PVC and polyester materials. For the design, this unit presents a V-hull frame, which adds to the product’s performance stability. You can also tow your gears with ease, thanks to the stainless steel D-rings.
1. Saturn SD290 Inflatable Dinghy Boat
The Saturn SD290 inflatable dinghy can accommodate up to 4 people, more specifically at a max weight limit of 990 pounds. It has 3 carrying handles and triangular symmetrical splash guards. Its overall length is about 9’6”, while its width is around 5’4”, and its total weight is 85 pounds.

The outboard motor allowed for this unit is a short shaft 10-hp motor. All in all, there are 5 air chambers on this inflatable boat. The main unit is attached to a rope grab line, and there are also stainless steel D-rings you can utilize to tow your gears.

The Saturn SD290 is also manufactured with standard 1,100 denier Dtex PVC with high-density polyester fabric. A high-pressure drop stitch air floor is also included with this product. Bundled accessories to this dinghy come in the form of the following items: aluminum oars, repair kit, carry bag, seat bench, and a generic high-volume hand pump.
1. Inflatable Sport Boats Killer Whale Model 330 Dinghy
The Inflatable Sport Boats Killer Whale dinghy has a sleek and contoured design, and is built with the use of a thick 9-mm, 1,100 denier reinforced PVC. It also features an ‘Easy Planing’ technology via the extended rear pontoons and transom area, which balances out the passenger-to-motor ratio. The dinghy also accepts either a 2-stroke or 4-stroke motor, and up to 15-hp max power.

There is also a 24-mm easy slide solid aluminum floor and seats, resulting in faster and effortless assembly. The seams of this Inflatable Sport Boats dinghy are heat welded, which guarantees durability on both salt and freshwaters. Aside from the removable seat cushion and bag, this product is also bundled with 2 aluminum oars with lock-in holders, a carry bag, a foot pump, and a basic repair kit.

The Killer Whale model 330 inflatable dinghy has a length of 10 ft. 8 in., a width of 5 ft. 2 in, and a weight of 80 lbs. Up 5 individuals can occupy this inflatable dinghy, but just make sure not to go over the 1268-lbs. max load capacity. For the air chambers, you only have to pump up 3.
1. Seamax Ocean320 Heavy Duty Inflatable Dinghy Boat
The Seamax Ocean320 dinghy has a total length of 10’5” and is 5’ wide. It has 3 pontoon chambers and 1 keel chamber. It also comes with a Hypalon type, 4 layers overlapped seam. By default, this unit weighs around 140 pounds and can be occupied by 4 people (870-pound max weight capacity).

The motor power limit is up to 15 hp. There are also safety grab lines on both the outer and inner sides of the vessel, but the former side uses heavy-duty parts. The main construction material used in this model is a marine-grade PVC. Marine birch plywood is also utilized on the transom.

Some of the best features on this Seamax Ocean 320 inflatable dinghy are as follow non-skid sectional aluminum floor with side joiners, a tie-down area for either a fuel tank or battery, dual-motor pads, and pull-up drain valve, and multiple D-ring kits. As for the accessories, you will get a bench seat, 2 aluminum oars, a carry bag, front towing cable, a foot pump, and repair and spare parts kit.
1. Inflatable Sport Boats Shark Model 300 Dinghy
The Shark model 300 of Inflatable Sport Boats generally looks the same as the Killer Whale Model 330, except this one is slightly smaller and has less load capacity. With that said, the overall dimensions of this dinghy measures about 9’8” long and 5’ wide. It can still carry up to 5 people, but only up to a maximum weight capacity of 1158 pounds.

It also has welded seams but not heat-welded, unlike its abovementioned counterpart. Regardless, it still guarantees long-lasting resistance on both fresh and salt waters. For the material construction, this model uses a 9-mm, 1,100 denier reinforced PVC.

Furthermore, the 24-mm aluminum floors are easy to install, same with the removable seats. The Inflatable Sport Boats Shark 300 model is bundled with more or less the same accessories as the 330 series, but this one comes with 2 aluminum bench seats instead of just one.
1. Solstice Sportster 4-Person Runabout Dinghy Boat
The Solstice Sportster 4-person runabout dinghy features a marine-grade drop-stitch high-pressure air-deck floor, and a tough PVC coated 500-denier construction material. It also sports a heavy-duty all-around rub strake.

You can also find molded rope eyes with a grab line around the unit. Moreover, there are also multiple heavy-duty D-rings for your mooring or towing demands. The keel is integrated under the air deck floor. The seats are an aluminum grade, and you are also provided with swivel oarlocks for added manual maneuverability.

This unit is compatible with both electric and gas motors, up to 10 hp. The length and width of the boat measures roughly 9’8” by 4’5”, respectively. In terms of product weight, this one is 78 pounds and has a carrying capacity of 770 pounds. Packed with the main item are the following extras: carry bag, oars, seat, and bellow foot pump. Solstice manufactures also a 3-person Sportster inflatable dinghy.
1. BRIS BSA300 Inflatable Fishing Dinghy Boat
The Bris BSA300 inflatable dinghy is built using 1,100 denier, 0.9-mm PVC material. Its floor type is a 12.5-mm thick aluminum, whereas its transom is made of marine grade plywood. Altogether, there are 3 individual air chambers on this dinghy, which are held together using aluminum side joiners with rubber ends.

Together with the main vessel, you will also obtain a foot pump, a carry bag, repair kits, oars, aluminum floor, and seat. With the item’s 9’8 length, 5’ width, and 1102-pound weight capacity, it can easily withstand up to 4 adults. The Bris BSA300 9.8 feet inflatable boat has an overall bulk of 110 pounds.

If you want to use a motor, the BRIS BSA300 can handle up to 10 max hp. There is also a one-way drain valve plug. And for your hauling needs, you can make use of the D-rings of the boat.

Best Inflatable Dinghies Comparison

With the details and features of each dinghy now provided, it’s also important to compare them side by side so you can choose the best of the best.
- Price
Out of all the 10 inflatable dinghies listed here, the HydroForce Caspian Pro is priced the cheapest, followed by Tangkula New 1.2mm PVC inflatable boat tender raft and BRIS BSA300, respectively.

On the other end of the spectrum, the Inflatable Sport Boats Killer Whale 10.8’ model 330 takes the spot as the most expensive product, with the Seamax Ocean 320 10.5’ heavy-duty inflatable boat trailing closely behind.

For the rest of the entries, they belong under the mid-price range. However, do keep in mind that the prices used as a reference here are from a single retailer only, for the sake of uniformity.
- Technology
Each product mentioned above has their own strengths and weaknesses. But, there are also models that stand out with their innovativeness.

A good example of such innovation is the ‘Easy Planing’ feature of the Inflatable Sport Boats Killer Whale 10.8’ model 330 dinghy. This feature ensures that the passenger and motor ratio are optimally distributed through the extended rear pontoons and transom area.

The unique triangular symmetrical splash guards of the Saturn SD290 inflatable boat is also worth mentioning. Furthermore, Seamax Ocean320’s dedicated tie-down area ensures that your motor-of-choice’s power source (fuel tank or battery) stays protected.

In addition, the same model (Seamax Ocean320) also offers safety grab lines on both its outer (heavy-duty) and inner sides. Albeit also present in most of the other units, it typically only comes in either a grab handle form for both sides or as a generic rope.

The majority of the inflatable dinghies enumerated above have their own oars holders. However, not all use the same approach. One of the standouts among the 10 is the HydroForce Caspian 9.3’ Pro inflatable dinghy boat, which has unique omnidirectional oarlocks.
- Ease of Use
A big factor that influences how easy a particular dinghy is to use, is in the assembly. And since this equipment mostly requires the inflation of air chambers to be fully operational, the number of such compartments will also determine the time and effort needed for the setup.

For this particular catalog, 3 is the least number of air chambers, and 5 is the maximum. Products that have the former amount are the following: Newport Vessels Dana, Newport Vessels Santa Cruz, both the Inflatable Sport Boats Killer Whale model 330 and Shark model 300, and BRIS BSA300. The latter quantity, on the other hand, applies to the Saturn SD290, which is the only product that has the same exact number of air chambers.

Normally, the fewer the air chambers the less time you need to fully set up the boat since there are fewer processes you need to perform, such as accessing valves. However, there are also advantages of having more air chambers, which is discussed in the section below.

Furthermore, motor compatibility and setup, and even the overall build of the unit can all affect user-friendliness too. But, these are also better deliberated over under a more appropriate category.
- Air Chambers
As mentioned above, there is an advantage for a dinghy to have more air chambers. The most notable benefit of which tends to be realized only in emergencies. Although dinghies are made with the utmost durability, the risk for accidental punctures is never 100% gone.

When such worst-case scenarios happen, you will be down 1 air chamber. But, the more air chambers the vessel has, the more reserves you will have left to keep you afloat. This puts the Saturn SD290 at an advantage in such situations since it has the most number of air chambers (5) among the rest of the entries.
- Build
The 10 inflatable dinghies being compared here come in varying sizes. If the longest vessel is what you are looking for, the Inflatable Sport Boats Killer Whale model 330, with its 10’8” length by 5’2” width dimensions, easily match such criteria.

However, if you want the most compact dinghy you can get from this particular list, then go for the Newport Vessels Dana inflatable sport tender boat, which only measures around 8’10” long and 5’ wide.

In terms of heft, the Tangkula New 1.2mm PVC inflatable boat takes the lead as the most lightweight unit, at only around 50.7 pounds Its complete opposite is the Seamax Ocean320, with whopping 140-pound product weight. Nonetheless, such figures will not matter as much on water.
- Construction
There is not much disparity among the products listed here in terms of the type of materials used. For the most part, all 10 dinghies given here uses PVC as a constriction component. The difference, however, mostly lies in the property of such an element.

Some models are very specific to the type of PVC they use, whereas others only indicate a general build type. For example, both the Newport Vessels Dana and Santa Cruz, along with the BRIS BSA300, all use a 0.9-mm, 1,100 denier PVC, whereas the HydroForce Caspian only implies the use of a heavy PVC.

The construction of the flooring is also another factor the influences the performance and durability of a dinghy. For this specific product list, the following types of flooring are prevalent: aluminum, plywood, and drop-stitched air floors. There are also models that use a combination of multiple materials.

Newport Vessels Dana is a good example of a dinghy that uses both plywood and aluminum on its floorings. But, if you prefer mostly aluminum floors, then check out the BRIS BSA300 and Seamax Ocean320. For the models that use drop stitched air floorings, consider the following entries: Newport Vessels Santa Cruz, Saturn SD290, and Solstice Sportster 4-Person.
- Seating and Weight Capacity
If you require an inflatable water vessel that has the highest weight limit, the Inflatable Sport Boats Killer Whale model 330, which can withstand up to 1268-lbs. of passenger load, is your best bet. However, if you normally journey light, then the 770-pound weight capacity of the Solstice Sportster may more than suffice.

When it comes to the recommended number of occupiers, the Newport Vessels Dana can house the least number, at only 3 passengers per unit. The Tangkula New Tender raft dinghy and the two Inflatable Sport Boats models, on the other hand, can accommodate up to 5 people.
- Accessories
As far as accessories are concerned, there is not much disparity between the 10 entries. Each of them comes with basic add-ons such as oars, seats, air pumps, and carry bags. However, the HydroForce Caspian does seem to stand out a bit when it comes to inflation management since it is the only model with a bundled pressure gauge, which is quite a value for its relatively cheap cost.

Additionally, all models have packaged repair kits, except the HydroForce Caspian and Solstice Sportster 4-Person. Speaking of kits, only the Seamax Ocean320 comes with dedicated spare parts set, in addition to the basic repair tools, which is really not a surprise given its steep price tag.

Additional accessories for fishing can be mounted for your rods, fish finder, and more. Similar to the inflatable fishing kayaks accessories.
- Motor
The majority of the entries are compatible with a 10-hp motor. Only the Tangkula New tender raft, Seamax Ocean320, and the two Inflatable Sport Boats dinghies, can make use of a motor of up to 15-hp.

The choice here is mostly dependent on the types of water you will pursue. If you frequently sail on rough streams, then it would only make sense to get a dinghy that can handle a motor with higher HP. Otherwise, a 10-hp motor is more than enough for calmer water surfaces.

There is also the topic of the 2-stroke and 4-stroke types of motor. For this list, only the two Newport Vessels dinghies (Dana and Santa Cruz), along with both the Inflatable Sport Boats Shark and Killer Whale, gives you the option to install either of these two motor varieties.

How does this affect your choice of a dinghy, you ask? Well, for one, the 2-stroke motor has a lighter engine and is cheaper and easier to operate than the 4-stroke. However, the latter has more power output, runs with a cooler engine, and consumes less fuel. You can easily find more in-depth comparisons between these two engine types, either online or from your local shops.

Hopefully, all the information mentioned above will lead you to the inflatable dinghy of your choice. Remember, do not think of the comparisons made here as a means for discerning which model is the most superior, rather, use it to find an item that matches your immediate needs the closest.

Hence, if you are on a budget, then go for the cheaper products. Or, if you like to have a lot of people on board with you, then look into the models that can seat the most people.
March 13, 2017
Newport Vessels Catalina Review
Dinghy Overview

The Catalina dinghy is Newport Vessels largest inflatable boat dinghy. The Catalina is designed both for professional uses, like water patrolling, but it’s just as suitable for recreational use like diving, fishing and cruising. Do you know how they tested this boat? Three men, (each with their own boat) took a 50 mile trip from the Newport Beach harbor to the Island of Catalina, which is located 25 miles off the coast of California. All the three boats performed excellent with no punctures or damage, which resulted in three very happy men.

The Catalina is 12 feet 6 inches long, making it one of the biggest dinghies you can buy online. The inflatable tubes are 18 inches wide which makes for one smooth and balanced ride, even on rough water where there’s plenty of wind and waves.

It has a carrying capacity of 1,603 pounds, more than enough to carry all of your family, a powerful gas motor and anything else you want onboard.

It’s made with a triple layered 1,100 denier PVC. This is the same type of material white water rafts use, making this boat almost indestructible. Running it into docks, dragging it across the concrete or any other normal boat activity will not affect the performance of the Catalina. The PVC not only protects the dinghy from scratches and punctures, it also protects the hull from UV rays.

Thanks to the large carrying capacity, you can install a 20 HP gas motor, which will give you speeds up to 26 MPH and beyond. For those who prefer a more leisurely experience, there are two aluminum oars included.

It has an inflatable keel which makes turning, banking and acceleration real smooth. It also helps with steering, making it a lot easier to maneuver through difficult or technical waters.

The Catalina might be a big inflatable and little more expensive inflatable, but with the price comes great versatility as well. It will handle rough oceans as good as calm lakes, and everything in between.

Features
- Triple layered 1,100 denier coated with heavy duty PVC
- Capable of taking up to 20 HP gas motors
- Huge carrying capacity
- Inflatable keel to make steering and maneuver as smooth as possible
Specifications
- Dimensions: 150 inches in length (12.6 ft) , 55 inches (4.5 ft) in width and 18 inches (1.6 ft) in tube diameter
- Capacity: 1,600 pounds
- Weight: 160 pounds
- Material: Triple Layered 1,100 denier coated with PVC
Our Review

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Let’s just start of our review by saying that you cannot get any closer to a “real” boat than this. And for the price you’re paying, it’s no wonder people absolutely love this dinghy. Since this is not your typical inflatable, we though it would be nice to do a “not-so-typical” review. Instead of going to the lake we have 5 minutes from here, we took it to the ocean to see if it really will hold up to rougher water.

There’s been some bad feedback, but supposedly it’s outdated

We were actually pleasantly surprised by the Catalina; we had read a lot of negative feedback on sites like Amazon before we got to try it out. So let’s start by explaining the bad feedback. What people have been complaining about is the fact that their boats started to fall apart after a year or so, rendering them useless. The most common issue was that the glue started to delaminate, making the seams and other parts of the boat come apart. We looked into the issue and found that their older models from 2011 were the fault of this. And judging by the reviews, almost all of them were published during 2012. Whether this was a faulty set of products or not, we will never know. What we do know is that the amount of complaints have been reduced dramatically during the last couple of years, so we take that as a good sign.

Humongous carry capacity, you can bring your whole family onboard

So, back to the review, what’s the best part about this boat? For us it is the huge carrying capacity. We can bring our dog, kids and even friend or two onto the Catalina, and we still have space left! It’s a great family boat indeed.The large carrying capacity makes it a perfect choice for those of you who’d like to mount larger gas motors on your inflatables. We rented a 18 HP motor for the day and managed to reach speed up 20 MPH with us two, our 2 kids and one dog, you will probably be able to get more with a stronger motor and if you’re by yourself.

Handles rough waters like it’s nothing

When we boarded the dinghy and drove further and further away from shore, I started to worry that it maybe after all wasn’t such a good idea. There were some moderate waves and wind, nothing too bad but it was our first time with the boat after all. Then suddenly the wind picked up a bit and… nothing. It was like nothing had happened, the boat was really stable and we all felt safe on it, even with stronger winds. We’ve tried aluminum boats in the past but they aren’t anywhere near as good as this one. With that said, we can safely say that this is the most stable inflatable we’ve ever gotten to try. If I was skilled enough to do backflips, I would be able to do them on this boat because it’s so stable.

Not very portable for an inflatable

The biggest drawback with this boat is it’s portability, or the lack of it rather. With it’s 160 pounds it’s nothing you can throw into a small carry bag and hike down to the beach. While it’s possible to store the Catalina in your apartment and other small spaces, it’s just too heavy to transport without a car. Well unless you’re really strong of course, but we take it that the person reading this is average. So you’re sacrificing portability for stability and carrying capacity, there are always trade offs.

Not suitable for rivers over class 1

The inflatable keel is a nice touch and it really does help with the steering and makes the boat whole lot more maneuverable. But we just want to stress that even though it can take rough waters, it does not mean you should take this into a river over class 1. It’s maneuverable compared to other dinghies, but compare it to inflatables that are specifically made for rivers and you’ll see that it’s inferior.

Pros
- Can carry more weight than the majority of inflatables
- Super stable, more stable than some aluminum boats
- Easy to cover large distances with a strong motor
- Will handle rough waters without any problems
Cons
- Heavy and bulky when it comes to portability
Conclusion:

It’s a good boat, albeit more expensive than your average inflatable boat. But then again, this is more than your average inflatable. If you like to carry a lot of people, equipment, or want to mount large gas motors, you’re going to love it.

We haven’t had any problems with the boat coming apart, neither have the dozens of people we’ve spoken to. But that doesn’t really guarantee you will have the same experience, it’s better to inspect the boat thoroughly and do a check every month to see if it’s still holds up. The boat comes with a one year warranty, so you have 12 months to see if there are any problems.
January 25, 2016
Intex Excursion 5 Review
Dinghy Overview

The Excursion 5 from Intex is probably one of the largest and most comfortable inflatable boats you can buy. This is actually their best selling boat of all time, considered by many to be one of the best fishing inflatables out there. It’s no wonder it’s a best-seller, it’s very big (especially for an inflatable) and highly affordable.

This is a great choice for larger families looking to get something portable to the lake. While it’s meant for recreational use in calm waters, it’s possible to push the limits and take it to some rapids.

The Intex Excursion 5 measures 12.5 feet in length and 5.5 feet wide, it has an astonishing carrying capacity of 1,000 pounds. It will comfortably fit up to 3 adults and 2 kids, or 4 adults, with room for gear and other necessities. It’s possible to fit 5 adults on the raft but you’ll be pushing the limits and there will not be any room for extra gear.

As with all Intex products, they meet the strictest safety standards. Each inflatable is monitored closely during production to ensure that the highest quality of materials is used. The hull is made out of 30 gauge vinyl, which is very strong and will prevent most punctures. Even though the boat is made from high-quality materials, it is still affected by changes in temperature, that’s just how vinyl works. It’s important to keep this in mind when planning your day, inflation in the morning might require some additional extra pumps later on in the day.

There are three separate air chambers. Takes a little longer to fill but it actually serves a function, if the boat were to get a puncture, only one air chamber will be deflated. Leaving you with enough time to paddle back to safety.

The Intex Excursion 5 is equipped with four fishing rod holders, 2 inflatable seats with backrests, two aluminum oars, oar locks, a motor mount, and a 360-degree grab line if anyone were to fall overboard. The motor mount will take up to a 1.5 HP motor, anything beyond that will be too heavy for the soft hull.

This is first and foremost a fishing boat; it’s built with fishing in mind. The big size of the boat allows you to bring loads of gear with you. But you don’t have to use it just for fishing, it works just as well for recreation. The huge size makes this a perfect choice for a group of friends looking to spend a day out on the lake, relaxing and just living the good life. It’s called Excursion for a reason, it’s not meant for long-distance trips, but rather shorter trips with leisure in mind.

Features
- Four fishing rod holders
- Two oar locks and holders
- Motor mount for trolling motor
- 360-degree grab line
- Super-tough vinyl for durability
- Comes with oars, double-action hand pump, and carry bag
Specifications
- Dimensions: 144 inches in length, 66 inches in width, and 17 inches in height
- Weight: 57.6 pounds
- Carrying capacity: 1,000 pounds
- Material: Super-tough Vinyl
Our review

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Very large, that’s all we have to say.

Included oars are way too short and fragile

We want to begin this review by saying that this is not something you would want to take into the open ocean or on any long journeys. Reason one, rowing with the included oars and the oarlocks is awkward and very straining. The included oars are just too short to make rowing comfortable. The oarlocks are also locked in place, which makes the range of motion even shorter. Rowing this was more like a workout than a leisurely activity, it felt like I had my hands straight up in the air, which was extremely exhausting. Several owners have reported that their oars have broken upon their first use, something you don’t want to happen when you’re out in the open. If you want to row this boat, buy a set of longer and higher quality oars.

Waves and the Excursion 5 don’t mix

Reason two, the body is too soft. While it works wonders on calm water, trying to get this into a wavy ocean will end in disaster. Because the body of the dingy is soft, you will feel each wave going underneath you. Not only is uncomfortable, but it also makes rowing real hard, you won’t be getting anywhere with the Excursion 5 on a windy day (unless you use a motor).

Ideal for a warm summer day with friends and family

With that out of the way, it’s a fantastic boat if you plan on using it on calm lakes and rivers. The large size makes it easy to carry along all kinds of gear, coolers, water, food, camping gear, dogs, anything you can think of really. We took it out to a calm river with a minor current on a sunny afternoon in July. While rowing was hard and cumbersome (unfortunately we didn’t have the chance to install a trolling motor), the boat was really comfortable. Both I and my wife could lay down on the floor without touching either end. Enjoying a good summer day with your friends is what this boat is all about (and of course fishing).

Get yourself an electrical pump to save time

When inflating the Excursion 5 we recommend using an electrical pump, this speeds everything up and will take just a couple of minutes. Electrical pumps usually do not inflate all the way, so using a dual-action hand pump to get the last air in is recommended.

Deflating takes a lot of time, hard to fit back into the bag

Deflating takes time since the floor doesn’t have a quick release. We spent about 15 minutes deflating everything all together. Even when completely deflated, it was hard to fit it back in the bag. This is pretty common with all inflatables and the only way to fix it is to buy a bigger bag or learn how to fold it (buying a new bag is easier and faster).

Sensitive seams that could rip easily

The next issue is not something we have personally encountered, but a few of the people we’ve talked with have told us that the seams are a bit sensitive and could rip rather easily. An owner told us he had taken his raft into the ocean and supposedly the waves had made one of the seams rip apart. And he’s not the only one with a story like this; other owners of the Excursion have written that mysterious leaks by the seams have somehow appeared, even with proper care and maintenance of the craft. Whether they were faulty from the beginning or if the leaks appeared from heavy usage we’ll never know. We take it as a sign as to not overuse this boat and push it too far.

The heavy-duty vinyl is said to be very abrasion and puncture resistant, but I just couldn’t shake the feeling that if I were to go over a sharp rock it would immediately puncture the hull. Remember that most heavy-duty boats are made out of PVC, there’s a reason why only cheaper boats are made from vinyl.

Plenty of ways to upgrade it to your dream boat

The Excursion 5 is a popular choice for people wanting to modify their boat with a little bit of DIY skills. There are endless videos of owners doing all kinds of custom modifications, swivel chairs, and hardwood floors being among the favorites. If you’re a handyman yourself and feel the burning desire to take your inflatable to the next level, we can recommend these videos:
Pros
- Very large and spacious
- Comfortable floor and seats
- Easy to modify to your own needs
- Has the option to mount a motor
- Tremendous value for the price
Cons
- Included oars are weak and too short
- A few people report problems with leaky seams
- Difficult to fold back into the bag
- Floor take some time to deflate because there’s no quick release
Conclusion:

If you like taking it slow with a couple of friends, enjoying the summer breeze, and just taking in the views your local lake or river has to offer, the Excursion is definitely worthy of your attention. Just imagine floating down a calm river with your three best friends, all with a drink in their hands.

Fishing enthusiasts will enjoy the Excursion 5 as well, the large size, carrying capacity, and four-rod holders make this a great addition to your fishing boats. When you grow tired of the inflatable floor, you can install yourself a hardwood floor with swivel seats and lots of other cool accessories, how many inflatables offer you that? If you’re handy enough you could turn this into the ultimate fishing boat.

All in all, it’s a highly affordable and valuable inflatable boat. Probably you’re paying less than $200 for a 4 person boat, just think about that. It has its kinks here and there, but for the amount of money you pay, you can’t really complain.
January 12, 2016
Intex Mariner 4 Review
DINGHY OVERVIEW

Intex has done it again, another inflatable watercraft that sets the bar for good value in the inflatable boat market. The Mariner 4 boat has all the features you would expect for an upper market model, but with a much lower price tag.

This versatile inflatable raft has any activity you have planned for it covered. From built-in fishing rod holders to inflatable seat cushions the Intex Mariner has everything you could want from an inflatable boat. Being able to handle white water rapids whilst also being great for fishing means you can relax and have excitement in the same raft.

The extra-strong PVC that this inflatable raft is made from ensures that you do not have to worry about being too rough with the Mariner 4. Its floor is made up of 4 inflatable super-tough PVC chambers. These chambers ensure that the raft is stable on the water and protected against any debris or rocks that may scrape the hull. On top of the inflatable, you can install the included slat floor for added rigidity.

With a carrying capacity of 800 pounds, the Intex Mariner 4 will allow you to carry any supplies with ease. Along the sides of the Mariner 4, you will find 2 rotating oarlocks, this feature really sets the Intex Mariner 4 apart from its close rivals. Typically cheaper inflatable dinghies will not have rotating oar locks which means you have to put the oar down after rowing. This makes for a painful back, as you have to continuously reach down to pick up your oar again.

Unlike other cheaper inflatable dinghies, the Mariner has a motor mount fitting. So if rowing is not your style, you can spend a few more bucks and get your inflatable boat an outboard motor fitted. This option is not for everyone, but the option is there nonetheless.

This craft is very comfortable, the inflatable seats are well made and sturdy which makes for a great time when lounging on calm waters. There are handy pouches located all around this dinghy, perfect for any gear you choose to bring with you. The seats are easy to move around and re-position thanks to their tight fit.

Safety was a priority when the Mariner was designed, a grab line can be found all round the craft and a durable rock guard is located at the front. For improved handling and all-round control, the Mariner has an inflatable keel, another thing that sets this craft apart from its contemporaries.

Features
- Very strong PVC – This makes the Intex Mariner a secure craft no matter where you take it.
  Comfortable ride – The inflatable seats along with space on board makes for a relaxing experience.
- Fishing rod holders – In case you feel the urge to cast off.
- Rotating oar locks – A feature you will surely grow to love.
- Lots of storage space – You will not need to crawl around looking for bait.
- Certified by the National Marine Manufacturer’s Association (NMMA) and U.S. Coast Guard I.D.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 126 inches in length and 57 inches in width
- Weight: 78 pounds
- Carrying capacity: 800 pounds
- Material: Super-tough PVC
Our Review

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The Intex Mariner impressed us when we tested it out, we really struggled to think of any inflatable dinghy that was even close to the value of this craft. This is the perfect budget recreational inflatable dinghy you can buy today. Well suited to calm rivers and lakes, but also more than capable of handling mild whitewater rapids.

It’s big but only takes about 12 minutes to set up

Considering the size of this craft and the accessories it comes with, is ready to row in 12 minutes is exceptional. While it takes some more hands-on approach to inflate than some other models, remember the stable four-cylinder floor is worth the extra effort. Don’t worry if you cannot inflate the craft in 12 minutes, this takes practice. Me and my wife test inflatables for a living, we got the pumping down to a science. We recommend that you inflate the craft to 30-40% than put on the floor before inflating it to the full amount.

Inflatable keel and the stable makes it’s very stable

Our Intex Mariner 4 tacked perfectly through all the trials we put it through. We scraped against some minor rocks but no scratches were found on the keel. Due to its inflatable keel and stable floor, this craft will never give you any handling problems. Having an engine fitted makes this craft even better at handling, so keep that in mind if you grow weary of rowing.

If you’re into fishing, the Mariner 4 has tons to offer

When it comes to relaxation fishing is certainly up there, and with the Mariner, Intex has made sure that you have the best chance to enjoy the sport. Coming with two fishing rod holders, the Mariner is fully ready for you to haul in a catch. We found the storage space to be more than adequate, and as a result, this inflatable dinghy comes highly recommended as a fishing vessel. If you find yourself wanting more from this dinghy, there are plenty of modifications for you to install to turn this into the ultimate fishing dinghy. Youtuber and owner, “dezertgrunt”, has uploaded videos of his modified Mariner 4 and we recommend you check them out if you’re planning on buying this boat!

Pros
- The Intex Mariner 4 is excellent value for money, you get a craft that is fully ready to give you some adventure.
- Having a motor mount makes this inflatable dinghy ready to take on some more serious journeys.
- This is a very stable craft on the water.
Cons
- Not the most portable inflatable dinghy on the market and fairly heavy. We strongly recommend purchasing 2 large bags to carry the two separate parts of the boat.
- Leaks is a common issue with this boat, make sure to do a thorough inspection of it before putting it into the water
Conclusion

The Intex Mariner is a perfect choice if you want a good value, versatile inflatable dinghy. We really can’t recommend this great inflatable boat enough, however, we do suggest buying 2 big bags to carry the two sections in as it is a rather clumsy craft to transport. If you decide to buy this inflatable dinghy you will not be disappointed.
January 11, 2016
Solstice Sportster 3-person Runabout Review
Dinghy Overview

You might think that the name Sportster indicates that this dinghy is made for high speeds, but in reality it will not go past 5 knots unless you put a powerful motor on it. Many mistake the Solstice Sportster for West Marines RU 3 boat, which is almost identical in looks and function, but the West Marines is slightly more expensive.

The Sportster is a great choice if you’re looking for a tender boat to shuttle people to and from the shore. You don’t have to use it as a shuttle only, it can be used for other activities as well, such as fishing with your best friend or exploring new areas.

You can row the boat with the included oars or use a motor. Both gas and electric motors work fine, as long as they don’t go above 5 HP.

The dinghy is 9.5 feet long, weighs 82 pounds and has a carrying capacity of just under 600 pounds (595 pounds to be exact). The Solstice Sportster is capable of carrying 3 people. The inflatable tubes are made out of heavy duty PVC, which makes the boat tough, abrasion and puncture resistant, so scraping against rocky surfaces will not be a problem. Even though the material is heavy duty and rather tough, the tubes are very comfortable lean against. The floor is made out of marine grade aluminum slats, making assembly quick and easy.

The Sportster comes with a carry bag, making transportation of the inflatable dinghy real easy. Due to flexible PVC material, this dinghy can be rolled up into a something that isn’t much larger than your average sleeping bag, making it the perfect choice for someone with limited storage space.

Since we do not currently have any videos of the Sportster we will show you the RU-3 because they’re pretty much identical.

The Solstice Sportster is a great inflatable dinghy for someone looking for something light weight, compact and portable. With the roll up design the dinghy takes up minimal space, making it a great addition to your yacht or sail boat. You can both row and put a motor on this boat, both electrical and gas motors work. It also works great as a smaller fishing boat, the aluminum floor allows you to place your all of your gear without having to worry about puncturing the deck.

Features
- Tough and heavy duty PVC makes the Solstice Sportster abrasion and puncture resistant
- Marine quality aluminum floor
- Heavy duty D rings for towing and mooring
- Comes with a foot pump, carry bag and oars
Specifications
- Dimensions: 114 inches in length, 54 inches in width and ~20 inches in height
- Carrying Capacity: 595 pounds
- Weight: 82 pounds
- Material: Heavy duty PVC
Our Review

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We’ve been using this dinghy as a shuttle boat for our big yacht. Taking the family out for a nice day trip with our Yacht is one of those things we enjoy the most during the summer months. But when we brought the kids along we faced a problem many other parents face, the kids become bored and look for ways to have fun. Luckily the Solstice Sportster solved that issue, now whenever we got for longer trips we always bring the Sportster with us so the kids can have some fun.

Works just as good for shuttling people as for fishing and other recreational activities
Having a small and motor powered dinghy is not only a great way to shuttle people, but it also works wonders to let the kids use. Since you can only mount smaller outboard motors, we can safely let the kids out on the ocean without having to worry about them too much (we do worry a little bit, we’re parents after all!).

9.5 feet long when inflated, deflated it’s no bigger than a sleeping bag
What we like most about this dinghy is the size of it, when inflated it’s 9.5 feet long, but rolled up it doesn’t take a lot space. Making it super convenient to use in our yacht. Rolling it out and inflating is just as easy as with any other inflatable. With the included foot pump it takes around 10-20 minutes to set everything up, depending on how fast you are with your feet. Setting everything up on colder days will take longer, since the materials becomes a little harder when it’s cold, so warming it up before use is a good idea.

3 persons is not equal to 3 full grown adults
Solstice claims that this inflatable boat can take 3 people on board, it’s not 3 full grown adults, but rather 2 adults and a child. It is possible to take three full grown adults onto the boat, but there will be very little space for anything else, you will pretty much sit on top of each other.

Gas or electricity, you choose
You can mount a gas powered motor or an electric one. The recommended horsepower for the motor is 4, but some owners have reported that they’ve used up to 8 HP without any problems. If you’re short on storage we recommended using an electrical motor. We use a 4 HP electrical motor, it’s lightweight and fits in our cabin without any problems, it’s also easier for the kids to steer the dinghy and not as frightening.

Pros
- Since it’s made from tough materials there’s no need to worry about leaks or punctures
- When rolled up the dinghy takes a little bit more space than your average sleeping bag
- The included carry bag makes it even easier to bring with wherever you go
- Works with both gas and electrical motors
Cons
- 3 full grown adults will fit on the boat, but you will have to sit on top of each other
Conclusion

If you’re looking for something portable and compact for your larger boat, be it a yacht or sailboat, this dinghy will overdeliver. Combine it with a smaller electrical motor and you got yourself one of the smallest and most compact inflatable dinghies you’ll ever find. While the main purpose of the Solstice Sportster is to use it as a tender boat to shuttle people to and from the shore, it works just as good as for other activities like fishing or exploring rivers. To sum it up, it’s amazing when used for shuttling people and gear from shore, and while you do recreational activities with it, don’t expect anything that will blow your mind.
January 4, 2016