Wetline Inflatables

[steveallan]

Thinking of buying a new inflatable, The Wetline 265 seems to be a good buy. Would appreciate comments from anyone who with experience of these, or other "low cost" inflatables.

 

[chuns]

I agonised over the price/quality dilemma too, and went for price. There are one or two minute things, but all in all it does a great job, and has stood up to three seasons use.

The thwart arrangement looks a bit frail, but in fact has stood up quite well. The pintles for the oars are showing signs of rust. The carry bag has ripped at the handles. The coating on the outboard bracket has flaked off. But at the price, I don't care.

The one thing I would say is to get one of those LVM electric pumps. They suck every last scap of air out of it, otherwise you will find it is too bulky to even get it in the bag. If you buy, take careful note of the way it is folded, sides in to the floor, end cones turned in. If you don't it will be a full season before you get it right!

 

[rudolph_hart]

Used to be a dyed-in-the-wool Redcrest user (3 over 30 years), but always thought the outboard bracket arrangement was not quite right. So opted for a rigid transom this time round.

Second all comments on the Wetline, except that:

1) We have a Honda 2.3, and don't use the thwart (= more room)

2) Haven't used the oars, except as backup in case of engine failure, and for grandkids to play.

No deterioration after 3 seasons' (albeit light) use.

Have LVM, but have used to inflate only, as we find that if you fold the boat as per your method and stand on it to squash air out, it fits in the bag and then in the cockpit locker OK.

All round good value IMHO.

 

[seumask]

We have had the 230R for 3 years and look after it reasonably well, I expect it will last at least another 5-10 years, same comment about the bracket, oars a bit flimsey, ie may bend if your a stronger person in a rush but it works well for us. I don't think it will stand up well to being neglected,i.e. left out in the sun and sand etc for long periods of time. IMHO works well for the cost.