inflatable dilemma

[uny1965]

Hi everyone, having a spot of trouble deciding on boat package. I have at the moment a 3.2m honwave with a mariner 15hp 2 stroke on the back, but i am craving a bit more speed for towing toys etc. I am thinking of purchasing a 2nd hand 2007 bombard 380 aerodec with a 18hp tohatsu 2 stroke and was wondering what you all think. could i mix and match the 2 packages. ie:- could i put the 18hp on the back of the honwave or 15hp on the bombard. Bit concerned over the weight as the honwave and 15hp fits just nicely in the back of my zafira with 4 passengers. also we tow a folding camper so trailering is out of the question. many thanks in advance

 

[landlockedpirate]

Both of the packages described will give similar performance, in fact I doubt you will notice any difference between the Honda and the Bombard at all. The internal space on the Honda isnt even that much smaller than the Bombard due to the clever use of space.

To get the greater speed you crave you will need to go to a different design with a bigger engine.

I would suggest a Zodiac with speed tubes and a 25-30 hp 2 stroke outboard. This rig will give you over 30kts. I cant remember the exact specs of the zodiac but I'm sure they did a 4.2m Futura hull with an air floor, stick a 30hp on it and it will fly. They also did aluminium and composite floor versions but they will obviously be heavier. I had a 4.8m futura sport that did over 60mph with a 50hp on it, but at times it was very very scarey !!

Can you carry the boat on the top of the folding tent ? it would give you more space in the boot for the engine.

The last part of your questions about mix and match, I wouldnt bother. The Honda has a max engine size of 15hp I felt it was enough for the hull. An extra 3hp might give you a couple of kts but I dont think its worth it.