inflatables

[Guest]

I want to buy a new inflatable tender for my boat. I have a tinker traveller which weighs a ton and I am now too old and feeble to lift it on and off the deck on my own.

Can't really afford a new Avon. Had a Narwhal a few years ago which turned out to be very por value as the seams started comming apart after three years (moderate) use. What are people's experience of the cheaper inflatables on the market? Any reccomendations? Alternatively, does anyone have a good s/h Avon etc they are selling?

 

[ChrisW]

I am not sure where you are based but try giving Bucklers Hard Boat Builders a call 01590 616214 they are Avon dealers and often have second hand tenders in stock.

 

[billmacfarlane]

Just bought my second Tinket Tramp. I know what you mean about the weight - it's the only drawback about them. When I was looking I was impressed by the Zodiac range. Might be worth having a look at them.

 

[Mr Cassandra]

I bough a force 4 about 3years ago .I think it came from NZ special price [They said cheep]what a load of junk seams started coming apart within 12mts problem was we use the bloody thing in Greece. And the supplier Cr---er mart wanted to see it in England .But would not pay towards the carridge Threw the thing away and bought an Avon. So buy cheep buy rubbish cheers Bob t

Bob T

 

[vyv_cox]

I've had a Compass Kudos for about six years now. It is very well made and is in virtually as-new condition, except that the black rubber leaves deposits on the white. We have carried four adults in it on flat water but they would be very wet in chop.

I had a doughnut type Avon for a (short) while but got rid of it quick, I found it to be a most unpleasant thing. About its only advantage is its lightish weight and small stowed volume. A terrible thing to row and dangerous with an outboard. After flipping it a few times on the painter and then back-looping it when the outboard was fitted I gave up. No such problems on the Kudos, but it does occupy more space. The inflatable keel gives a little directional stability which helps the rowing considerably. Don't know the current price, or even if it is still made, but when I bought it the price was half that of an Avon.

 

[brians]

I've had a Plastimo for a couple of years and am very pleased with it. Only downside is that it is a bit heavier than some.

 

[incognito]

I have an Avon Redcrest, not bad condition, no leaks etc. which I would allow to be adopted by a careful new owner for about £200, I live in Bromley Kent. email me if interested.

 

[longjohnsilver]

Current thread on MB forum re inflatables, valiant seems to be come out well.

 

[Guest]

Thanks for the replys. To "incognito"- yes, I would be very interested and I am just down the road from you- please let me have your contact details and I will get in touch my email- steve@hubbardlandy.fsnet.co.uk

 

[Douglas]

In my experience there is nothing like an Avon for durability, and you can patch them forever. I bought a rebadged Italian job a few years ago and the seams leaked when it was brand new, however it was cheap and is small and light. Only for sheltered waters though.