Lighter inflatables

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JimC

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I seem to remember reading on here about a new type of inflatable that was much lighter in weight than existing PVC/Hypalon types for no loss of strength. Did I dream it or can anybody remind me; and if these things do exist where can they be seen and are they any good?
 
We bought a 250 at the beginning of the summer, and it has done us proud. It is significantly lighter than the XM 260 which it replaced, and I am very pleased with it. The only thing to note is that on a hot sunny day, the black tubes warm up, increasing the air pressure, and then at night, the tubes can go a little soft. However, this is a minor issue, and the convenience of being able to easily launch, retrieve and stow the tender easily outweighs this. Incidentally, we use a Mariner 2.5 (2 stroke) on it, and it is a good match - the lightness doesn't lead to any handling problems.
 
JimC said:
Thanks, yes those are the ones. Anybody had any experience of using them?
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I bought a 230 3D Tender from Piplers a couple of months ago. I've only used it a few times to get out to my boat on a swinging mooring but it seems well made. It is very light which is why I bought it and I can easily lift it on board on my own. In fact, the first time I tried this I was going to use the spinnaker halyard but when I lifted the bow up to attach a line it virtually flew on board in a light breeze. It might actually be quite difficult if it was windy. Using a Suzuki 2.2, it handles without any great drama but I probably haven't had it long enough to give a proper review.

Being black, it does get harder in the sun so care may need to be taken with inflation pressures. They do make a grey one which is slightly heavier (20% heavier I think). The owners manual is rubbish and bears no relation to the dinghy. It seems to have been written for a completely different one. The rucksack bag isn't really strong enough and I tend to just carry it under an arm.

So far I am pleased I bought it.
 
My 3D 230 in black, also from Piplers about 3 monhs ago and powered by a torqeedo 1003 motor is prooving much more suitable for short tendering than my Honwave T27.
 
Bought a 3D 270 this year, as the previous Wetline 260 was blinking heavy to maneouvre on deck, both inflated and when packed.

At less than half the weight, the 3D is much easier to handle and more compact to stow. The inflatable floor is surprisingly rigid, and any water drains into a transverse channel accross the transom, so no puddles in the floor.

Was disappointed that the tubes are slightly smaller diameter (more spray), but otherwise it's overcome all the problems of its predecessor. We use the same Honda 2.3.
 
We bought a 3D 250 Kinglite (Grey = thicker fabric & 20% weight penalty), as opposed to the black Superlite, in April and can't say I've been overwhelmed. Floor was punctured by dog's claw which is not particularly sharp or long, pump has been replaced under warranty after the metal bellow retaining band snapped and the carry bag has split at the seams. Can't fault its performance under oars or motor, though. I would add that my only previous tenders have been Avons which resisted far worse abuse than canine feet so perhaps I expected too much. Other owners I've spoken with think 3Ds are excellent dinks. Would recommend Piplers if you go for one, both on price and dealing with warranty issues.
 
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Another vote for 3D We have had 3D250 now in its 2nd season and its very light at about 15kgs. A 2.5 Suzi 4S engine pushes 2 of us along at up to 8 knots according to my GPS. Our carry bag is fine and has not split (yet), we keep in deflated in a locker in its bag. Compared to our previous Honwave, it is not as tough, has no V floor and does have smaller 37cm tubes against 42s - so yes as has been said you get a bit more splash inside especially when there is a any chop. Overall though, its very light (our reason for changing), reasonably stable and does a good job.
 
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