Inflatables Guide

Tag: Intex

Intex Challenger K1 Review
Are you wanting to try out kayaking with the family? But worried it’s just too big and difficult to store and transport? We are always supporting those brands that can break down barriers to enable everyone to enjoy the water. The Intex Challenger K1 is one of them, being one of the best-valued kayaks available today, it has all the features and accessories you need to get out on the water and have some fun.

Intex is a market leader in inflatable technologies from swimming pools and spas to inflatable mattresses and beach toys. With over 40 years of experience in the market, there really is no better company to choose from.

Their latest kayak is the Intex Challenger K1 and it’s a great looking option, which is the perfect boat for beginners, easy to use, and super fun.

Keep on reading to find out some more about this affordable inflatable kayak.

Specifications

Length 9’

Width 30”

Weight 24 lbs

Weight Capacity 220 lbs

Review

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Materials

Intex has been a brand leader in inflatable components for over 40 years, over this time they have researched and studied just what is needed for each product to excel.

The Challenger K1 inflatable kayak is no exception by using a rugged laminated vinyl that has been welded, this allows the kayak to hold its shape and offer maximum durability.

The sturdy i-beam floor helps the boat to be rigid even with the largest rider.

As always the styling has to be important and Intex’s use of color certainly helps this inflatable kayak stand out from the crowd. The green, black, and blue styling are exciting and fun.

Seat

The Challenger K1 incorporates a large, oversized inflatable seat. Designed for maximum comfort the seat is super adjustable.

Whether you want it rock solid or a little softer is up to you, but once in the boat, you can adjust the angle of the backrest with the simple webbing.

The inflatable seat is really comfortable and offers a great amount of support for long days out on the water.

Deck lines + Bungee

Being able to easily stow everything you need for a day on the water is important. That’s why Intex has incorporated both a front cargo area and rear deck line.

The front cargo area allows for accessories, shoes, and water to be safely stowed within reach of the seat for easy access. The rear deck line is super versatile with a whole host of uses from aiding re-entry to tieing on when a child is using close to the shore. The well-placed rope can be used for storage or safety.

Fins

The Intex Challenger K1 has a removable skeg included in the package, this is ideal for aiding directional stability and helping the kayak to track in a straight line.

Inflatable kayaks like sups are lightweight and susceptible to being pushed off course by wind or waves. That is why the Challengers removable skeg is necessary for helping you reach your destination. Of course, you can paddle the kayak without the fin, this is great in shallow conditions to stop you from getting hung up on weeds.

Inflate/Deflate

Using only 1-3 PSI of pressure the Challenger K1 from Intex is super easy to inflate. In just 5 minutes you can go from getting out of the car to paddling away from the beach.

The chambers are easily accessible and fast to inflate with the included high volume pump. Deflating is fast and easy by opening the valves allows the air to release quickly so you can roll it up and pack it away stress-free.

Overall Performance

Intex has always taken all of their products seriously, striving to make improvements and developments in both performance and technologies. The latest edition of the Challenger K1 is no exception.

As soon as the postman had left the carton we were like children at Christmas, eager to open it and find out what was inside.

As we cracked open the lid we found everything we needed right there in the carton. Kayak, pump, repair kit, and breakdown paddle, the only thing we needed to add was a life jacket which we had already.

We unrolled the Challenger and started pumping, within 5 minutes we were on the water with a quick snap of the paddle and we were away.

On the water, the Challenger K1 feels soft and very comfortable. It is not a performance piece and certainly won’t look to break any records but it felt extremely stable and easy to control.

The added rudder helped us to stay straight without any difficulty only slight yaw in its tracks.

We managed to paddle one of our favorite courses around a secluded bay we found the Challenger to take it in its stride.

For children, the Challenger K1 is an extremely fun option with its worst-case scenario of tipping over extremely unlikely due to its stability.

If by chance you do end up in the water, then the Challenger K1 is extremely buoyant, floating to the surface and self-bailing before you re-enter.

Overall we found the Intex Challenger K1 one of the most comfortable kayaks we have tested with its adjustable, inflatable seat giving all-day support and comfort. The superb package from Intex is a great price and guarantees years of fun on the water.

Accessories

Paddle

A paddle is your engine. It’s your way of moving the kayak around and luckily for you, Intex understands its importance. They’ve included a simple break down paddle that stores easily to the package. This means that you can really hit the water right from the get-go.

Pump

Intex understands a thing or two about inflatables and that’s why they have chosen to include their own high output, double action pump. This means that your pump inflates both on the upwards and downwards strokes so you get maximum results for the least effort. The compact pump design is easy to carry and store, inflating the kayak reasonably quickly to allow you to start your adventure.

Repair Kit

A simple repair kit is included with each inflatable kayak. This includes a couple of patches and a valve tool. It is important to familiarise yourself with all of these items so if disaster strikes you can repair and be back on the water as soon as possible.

Pros
- The value of this kit is amazing: an inflatable kayak, paddle, hand pump, and repair patch is great value for money.
- Fast and easy to set up
- Lightweight and portable for any adventure
- Fun for all of the family
- Stylish color scheme
- Paddle and pump included for convenience
- Removable skeg ideal to aid tracking and stability
Cons
- Not suitable for open waters
- Only one color option available
- Designed for recreational use and not performance
Conclusion

So you’ve read what we think now it’s time to really make up your mind. If you want fun and excitement for a low startup cost that will last, then this is for you. Everything is included ready to hit the water straight from the carton.

The Challenger has really been designed as an introductory kayak. Its simple and easy set-up design will get you on the water as fast as possible with no prior knowledge needed.

Intex also offers a Challenger K2 model, this is a two-seat version which is slightly bigger. By adding the second seat means you can share the experience safely with friends or family.

The Intex Challenger K1 is one of our favorite inflatable kayaks purely due to its ease of use. if you want hassle-free fun delivered direct to your door for an awesome price then look no further.
February 11, 2020
Intex Inflatable Kayaks and Boats
Intex is a huge company manufacturing an incredible amount of water sports products, ranging from inflatable kayaks and boats, to airbeds, pools, and other water sports related toys.

In this article, we will be going over a few of the company’s inflatable boats and kayaks. Each one will be reviewed exhaustively, so that you can have a better time choosing which model will be most appropriate for your water sports needs.

A Brief Overview of the Intex Brand

Before we start with the review, getting to know Intex as a brand in general will provide you with great insights as to how they handle their products. Plus, being familiar with the company’s history is more likely to make you trust them.

It has been well over four decades since the Intex brand was founded, which was way back in 1966. Their base of operation is located in California, specifically in the Long Beach area.

Unbeknown to some of its current consumers, or to the general public for that matter, Intex is not the first name of the group. In its earliest years, the brand was actually called “The Wet Set”. Another interesting fact about the brand concerns the very first inflatable item they ever released, which is a beach ball.

It was not until 1997 that Intex began to widen its product catalogue with the creation of its original above ground swimming pool. From there, new types of inflatables were slowly added in, which eventually lead to the inclusion of boats and kayaks.

By borrowing concepts from their previous works and implementing them in their inflatable vessels, you can be sure that each boat is guaranteed to perform without fail. Apart from this, Intex also developed unique technologies specific to their boat series, allowing them to stand out that even more.

Today, Intex-made products can be accessed from more than 100 countries, worldwide. Just from this global feat alone, you can already tell that the brand is highly trusted.

Intex Inflatable Kayaks and Boats

Intex’s inflatable boats are currently categorized into two groups, namely: the professional series boats, and sports series boats. The former includes models that are engineered for optimal performance and maximum durability, whereas the latter is has more of a recreational purpose. Either way, both classes offer units that are rugged and stable.
- Intex Challenger K1 Inflatable Kayak
The Challenger K1 is one of Intex’s entry-level inflatable kayaks. It is a one-person kayak that features an inflatable I-beam floor, which adds rigidity to the base of the unit. The kayak also sports a low profile design, allowing you to control it more efficiently.

For your storage needs, you can make use of the cargo net on the front end of the kayak. It has enough space to secure you medium to large sized items, while also providing easy access to them.

You can also find a grab line on both ends of the inflatable kayak, so you can carry it in and out of the water effortlessly. Speaking of carrying, the kayak weighs 24 lbs., which is light enough for one person to lift up and transport with ease.

As for the overall dimensions of the Intex Challenger K1, it has a length of 9 ft., and a width of 2.5 ft. The total amount of heft it can bear when fully inflated is around 220 lbs. Such capacity is enough for one adult-sized human, plus some gears.

The sitting compartment is wide enough for you to easily get in and out of the kayak. In addition, the inflatable seat has a backrest, giving you long lasting comfort while paddling. You can also freely adjust or remove the seat, which provides plenty of ways to achieve a position that you will be most comfortable with.

At the back of the kayak, a removable skeg can be attached. Such accessory will improve the overall tracking of the kayak and its ability to slice through water. This will not only benefit the general maneuverability of the inflatable kayak, but it will also minimize the effort you need to put in with each paddle you execute.

The construction of the Intex Challenger K1 is also impressive for its price. With the use of heavy duty, puncture-resistance vinyl, you can use the kayak on lakes or non-rapid rivers without fear of puncturing an air chamber.

Accessory-wise, this kayak comes with the following add-ons: 84” aluminum oars, a high output hand pump, and a patching kit.
- Intex Mariner 4 Inflatable Boat
Looking for the perfect 4-person inflatable boat for various boating and outdoor activities? Then, the Mariner 4 by Intex is the perfect inflatable raft for you. You can use it either for a camping trip, for fishing, or even just for some leisurely cruising.

When completely deflated, the Intex Mariner 4 can be easily folded and stored, making it very portable. Once fully inflated, the unit transforms into a tough yet still flexible watercraft. A huge reason why it is so durable is because of its strong molecular structure.

Thanks to the SUPER TOUGH PVC, 3-ply construction of the item, abrasions and punctures are aptly abated. This build also makes the unit highly resilient against UV degradation, so you can sail under the sun all you want.

For some added protection against impacts, this inflatable boat also employs a durable rock guard around the hull. Above this layer of protection, an all-around nylon grab line can be seen, which you can use to divide manpower when transporting the boat.

Setting up the Mariner 4 does not take long. This is made possible with the help of the four Boston valves on the main hull chamber. These ports are not only easy to access, but also pumping and releasing air through them is seamless, resulting to fast inflation and deflation.

Aside from the main hull, this model also has an inflatable keel. This may not seem all that much, especially in the eyes of a beginner, but having this added shape results in better tracking compared to others that do not have it.

When fully assembled, this inflatable watercraft measures 129 x 57 x 19 inches. It weighs around 86.9 lbs. As for the max weight capacity, it can withstand up to 880-lbs. (400 kg.) of total heft.

The boat also has rotating oar locks and oar holders, ensuring that your paddles do not fall underwater, while also making your paddling effortless. There are three inflatable seat cushions on the deck, which can support all four passengers comfortably.

More importantly, you can choose to outfit the Mariner 4 with an engine, via the motor mounting accessory. With that said, a battery pouch is readily provided, in case you choose to install an outboard.

Along with the main module, you will also get a repair kit, a set of 54-in. deluxe aluminum oars, and a high-output hand pump. You can also find 2 rod holders on the boat, which is great for hands-free fishing.
- Intex Excursion 5 Inflatable Boat
The Excursion 5 is one of the largest inflatable boats in Intex’s arsenal. It sports a total of 3 air chambers, giving the unit high buoyancy rating. Moreover, such amount of air bladders will allow the boat to stay afloat in the event that one of them is accidentally punctured, so you can safely row back to shore.

The inflation and deflation process is also made fast and stress free, all thanks to the accessible Boston valves of the main hull. After you are done with your adventure, the boat can then be folded back with ease.

Like with most Intex inflatables, a grab line is also threaded around this model, which can be used for both utility and safety purposes. Aside from the grab line, carry handles are also found on both ends of the vessel, which promotes quick and painless transport.

Prevention of punctures and abrasion is carried out effectively with the aid of the boat’s heavy-duty PVC construction. The inflatable floor has an I-beam design, which not only makes the deck rigid, but it also augments the stability of the craft.

The Intex Excursion 5 has physical dimensions of 144 x 66 x 17 inches. It has a max weight limit of 1,300 lbs., which is sufficient for 4 people, although it might still be possible to add 1 more person onboard.

Alternatively, you can take full advantage of the large weight capacity by paddling with less passengers, but more equipment, which is an ideal setup for activities like fishing. Speaking of which, there are 4 rod holders placed around the hull, so you can do other things while waiting for a bite.

All in all, there are 3 inflatable seats available for the Intex Excursion 5 inflatable boat, 2 of which have a backrest and are placed at both front and rear ends of the boat. As for the 3^rdone, it is placed in the middle, but it is just a bench with no back support.

To make your rowing easier, simply utilize the oar holders. Moreover, you will receive the following accessories upon your purchase of the Excursion 5: two 54-in. aluminum oars, high output air pump, repair kit, and carry bag.
- Intex Explorer K2 Inflatable Kayak
The Intex Explorer K2 is an awesome combination of speed and comfort. It is a 2-person inflatable kayak that can slice through water easily, and accommodate passengers for hours. This guarantees that you get to explore as much of the surrounding seascapes as you can.

The Explorer K2 is not only sporty in design, but it also has the performance to back it all up. Thanks to its streamlined build, paddling has never been easier, especially with two people working together.

To ensure your comfort, the bundled inflatable seats of this kayak also come with a backrest, which minimizes the likelihood of lower back strain. Furthermore, the sitting compartment has plenty of space for your legs to position restfully.

A front and rear grab line makes it easier to divide the carry load between you and the other passenger. The 31.13-lbs. bulk of the Intex Explorer K2 also helps in this regard, allowing you and your partner to transport the item in and out of the water smoothly.

When filled with air, this kayak takes on a size of 10’3” x 3’ x 1’8”. It can also carry up to 350 lbs. of total load capacity, which is enough for 2 adults, without causing too much drag.

Out of the box, you will also be getting two 86”, 4-part aluminum paddles, a hand-operated air pump, a carry bag, and a repair patch.

Construction is also handled well, with puncture-resistant vinyl being the primary component used. Much like the Challenger K1 and Excursion 5, this model also sports an I-beam floor system, giving it a firm base.
- Intex Challenger 2 Inflatable Boat
Do not confuse the Challenger 2 as a higher version of the Challenger K1, because it is not a kayak, but rather an inflatable boat. It is also one of the cheapest 2-person inflatable boats currently out in the market. If you are looking for an entry-level boat that is capable of carrying you and another passenger, but without breaking the bank, then this will appeal to you.

Having been manufactured with heavy-duty PVC fabric, you can trust this model to not rip, puncture, or pop, just out of the blue. The 3 air chambers of the unit also elevate its overall reliability to keep you above water, in case one is accidentally pierced.

Similar to almost all inflatable watercrafts made by Intex, the Challenger 2 also comes with quick-access Boston valves, which makes inflation and deflation a breeze. The carry handle on the bow and all-around grab line also yield incredible utility and convenience.

When it comes to physical dimensions, the Intex Challenger 2 measures 93 x 45 x 16 inches. Maximum weight capacity is rated at 440 lbs., which is already plenty for two people, and maybe some onboard gear. On that note, these are the following accessories that come with the main module: two 48-in. French oars, a repair patch, and an Intex hand pump.

Unfortunately, the Challenger 2 does not come with seats. However, the deck is spacious enough for you and your partner to comfortably sit on. Even without a seat, the built-in oar locks and oar holders still make the rowing easy.

Surprisingly enough, the Intex Challenger 2 inflatable boat can also be affixed with a motor, provided that you also obtain the proper motor mount fixture. Nevertheless, this boat can be maneuvered just fine, with or without an engine.
- Intex Seahawk 4 Inflatable Boat
The Intex Seahawk 4 is the ideal budget inflatable boat for a group of 4. It is built using Intex’s own SUPER TOUGH™ PVC material, which fares rather well against impacts and potential abrasions. This type of construction also keeps the boat flexible, making it easy to fold and unfold.

Motor fitting is available for the Seahawk 4, which is a great option to have for when you finally decide to add more speed and glide to your boating experience. However, even without a motor in place, the Intex Seahawk 4 is still an easy boat to maneuver via rowing, more so with the aid of the welded oar locks and oar holders.

To store your small personal effects, use the built-in gear pouch. And when you decide to go fishing, this product has two rod holders for you to exploit. You also do not have to hold back when reeling in those huge catches, since this inflatable boat can withstand up to 1,050-lbs. of weight.

In terms of accessory set, the Intex Seahawk 4 inflatable boat comes with two 48-inch aluminum oars and a high-output pump. Unfortunately, a carry bag is not included, but you can use almost any storage pack you have at your disposal.

What makes Intex so great?
- Affordability
The biggest advantage that Intex has over other inflatable boat-producing brands, is the cheap price ranges that their units retail at. Even their large 4-person boats are considered cheap by most standards. If you are new to the world of inflatables, then this brand is one of the best place to start.
- Surprisingly well-built
It is not uncommon for relatively cheap products to be associated with sub-par or mediocre quality. However, Intex is certainly an exception to this notion. Despite being inexpensive, Intex still employs high-grade materials in its inflatable kayaks and boats, most of which are PVC-based.
- Great set of accessories
The accessories that Intex bundle with their boat lineups yield immense value for the price you are paying in general. Some of higher-end products might not even come with anything other than a carry bag. This company on the other hand, will at least include a paddle and a pump in majority of its available units.
July 19, 2017
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