Simso
Member
I am dithering over these 2 dinghies - anyone care to sway me?
Excel 230sl versus 3D 230 dinghy
- Thread starter Simso
- Start date
Birdseye
Well-Known Member
I have an SD 230 excel. No complaints about the dinghy except perhaps its weight but then since I bought they have introduced a new line which weighs much the same as other inflatables. Excel themselves were a PITA to deal with when I had problems initially.
Ripster
Well-Known Member
We bought a 3d250 a couple of seasons back because it was very light. No complaints yet. It folds away easily, seems reasonably made - not cheap though. There are better stronger tenders out there, but few that have the weight advantage vs strength and capacity of the 3D.
Birdseye
Well-Known Member
never heard of the 3d before, but given the weight of the excel that I have I would seriously look at a 3d. I cant believe that it will be as sturdy or long lasting but a bad back lifting an over heavy dinghy is a lot worse than having to replace a dinghy thats fallen to bits a bit early.
Simso
Member
Thanks for your thoughts, likely to be the 3D 
Dipper
Well-Known Member
I have a 3d 230. It really is so light that it almost flies on board. I haven't tried lifting it onboard in a strong wind. It might turn into a kite!
The material is made in Germany so it is good quality.
Simso
Member
Ordered one now so thank you��
Dipper
Well-Known Member
Strangely, mine came with a user manual that bore no relationship to the dinghy. Apparently there isn't proper one but it's all very simple really. One tip - if you lift it onto your boat, remove the seat first as it can slide out. It also makes it lighter.
PabloPicasso
Well-Known Member
I've just drilled a small hole in the corner of my tender's seat so I can attach a lanyard for this very reason