Maybe need a new tender, 3D or Highfield?

[davethedog]

Hi all,

Looks like the Avon 2.6m hypalon tender we have may be about to finally die (the rubbing strake on the side is coming off, there is a small leak in the floor area etc) and it is 15 years old.

Here in Martinique there are a few chandlers and we are possibly thinking of a new 2.6m aluminium bottomed tender and have 2 possible options:

HIGHFIELD CL260
3D ULTIMATE 260

Both are Hypalon and the cost for the HIGHFIELD is more than the 3D (for the same cost as the Hypalon could buy the 3D and the sunbrella chaps).

So, is the HIGHFIELD that much better?

Thanks

DTD

 

[Seastoke]

Hi all,

Looks like the Avon 2.6m hypalon tender we have may be about to finally die (the rubbing strake on the side is coming off, there is a small leak in the floor area etc) and it is 15 years old.

Here in Martinique there are a few chandlers and we are possibly thinking of a new 2.6m aluminium bottomed tender and have 2 possible options:

HIGHFIELD CL260
3D ULTIMATE 260

Both are Hypalon and the cost for the HIGHFIELD is more than the 3D (for the same cost as the Hypalon could buy the 3D and the sunbrella chaps).

So, is the HIGHFIELD that much better?

Thanks

DTD

 

[Corribee Boy]

The only problem I've had with my 3D is the moulded stickers going, well, sticky. The surface seemed to have degraded after five years exposure, but the tender itself is sound. I don't know about Highfield - but hope this helps.

 

[arcot]

Some Avons have sur I ed I good condition for over 50 years

Repair with 2 part hypalon glue o a warm and dry day is an option

 

[lustyd]

I've noticed a trend on YouTube recently (possibly sponsordhip...) towards solid carbon tenders with padding around the edge like the OC Tender. The price is high but it definitely seems the way to go for stability and longevity if your boat is big enough. If you're already looking at a RHIB then it seems a no brainer (aside from cost). The only reasons we use inflatables are space and weight. If you're on Davits space isn't a concern, and with carbon replacing wood or GRP weight stops being a problem.

 

[lustyd]

Ah, unless you meant aluminium floor, which is a totally different kettle of fish than aluminium bottom!