Lightweight Tender

[Ian33]

I need to replace my 3.1m Zodiac (airdeck) because it has become porous due to UV damage. I am looking for a dinghy with an inflatable floor that is 3.1m or less and rated for motors up to 10HP. Zodiac do not seem to sell 3.1m airdeck any more, but it is very heavy anyway. I had identified a Brig D300W but that is no longer available. There are several that weigh about 40kg but I would prefer something that weighs a lot less. Does anyone have any suggestions? Many thanks.

 

[Bigplumbs]

3D Tender 20.3 kg for 2.9 and 10hp

https://www.marinesuperstore.com/tenders-accessories/tenders/3d-twin-v-shape-tender

Dennis

 

[Ian33]

Bigplumbs. That you very much-that looks exactly what I want. I will pop into Marine Superstore & ask them about it.

 

[[2068]]

Zodiac do make a 310 Aero Deck at 35kg.
I bought the 270 version of this. The main thing I liked about it was bigger tubes = Not so splashy underway.

http://www.zodiac-boats.co.uk/acatalog/Zodiac-Cadet-310-Aero---New-for-2015-Z11016.html

I did look at the 3D tenders and they are an interesting product because of the light weight.
I was mainly put off because of the smaller tube sizes.

 

[Ian33]

FlowerPower. Thank you for your reply. I had thought (incorrectly) that that the 3.1 was not available but it looks like they are making a newer version because my 11 year old one was an excellent tender but definitely weighs more than 35kg. I will have a look at Southampton boat show.

 

[tetleys]

Have a look at AB ribs , they do a variety of sizes in the Lumina range which are aluminium and light
I went for a 2.8 with a yam 9.9 which planes and hits 19 knots solo and 15 with swmbo and small dog
Cheers
Tetleys

 

[jmw]

I had a 3D tender (albeit a slightly smaller one) and it was great to stow and quick to inflate/deflate. The only trouble is the tubes are quite small (hence the light weight I suppose) and it wasn't ideal for going out in the evening as you tended to arrive with a damp bottom :ambivalence:

When it came to replacement, I did a lot of research and found the Mercury Airdeck range suited me best. I bought the 290 which used to be called the 310 but with rounded off rear sections they've made it that little bit shorter (I only had 3m on the bathing platform to stow) AND it takes up to a 15hp.

A 2.9m inflatable with 15hp 2stroke outboard is a lot of fun

I got mine from Ron Hale marine in Portsmouth. No connection but found they had the best price at the time. http://www.ronhalemarine.co.uk/superbasket/product/1971/Mercury_Air_Deck_Deluxe_290

Cheers,
Joe

 

[Nick_H]

Bear in mind the superlight tenders like the 3D also have thinner PVC so puncture more easily, in fact very easily in my experience

 

[Ian33]

Thank you all for your replies, I will see what is available at Southampton boat show &, yes it will be a compromise between mass & durability.