which inflatable dinghy?

C

ColinR

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23 Oct 2001
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www.victoriashadow.co.uk
I need to replace my old Zodiac 2.6 mt dinghy and wondered if there are any views or feedback about what's good. I'd get something similar size as a tender to take a 2.5 hp outboard. The zodiac was not bad apart from the hopeless rowlocks that needed replacement every time you had to put your back into rowing. Dangerous one dark November night when there was a tide running and the outboard.
conked out. I see Seago do a slatted floor or inflatable floor option. Any views?

Thanks all, Colin
 
I have a Waveline 2.9m, inflatable V floor, thick tubes; this is the seventh year and still goes strong. Has been left out almost every winter and summer without problems, has been abused by the kids and the 10st Rottweiller; rows well, and planes on a 3.5 hp. I also have an old Zodiac; but these old design dinghies are inferior, in my opinion, when comparing to the new generation dinghies; no need for expensive hypalon as pvc is getting better and better. Three years ago I also bought a 2.6 Seago with slated floor, has thin tubes; what a disappointment in terms of stability, rowing and performance with the engine on.
 
I have a 3D tender. First class build quality and lightweight. Can't recommended it more highly.
 
All the budget ones (sub £500) are essentially the same with minor variations in fittings and in some cases the size of the tubes. The materials and construction is common - they all come from one of 3 factories in China.

So, your choice is determined by your assessment of the convenience of fittings (oars and rowlocks vary for example) and the style you want. The basic fabric floor is the cheapest and lest satisfactory to row or power, but lighter and easier to fold. Next up is a slatted floor which gives a stiffer bottom but heavier and more difficult to stow. Most common, probably, is an airdeck floor which is also stiffer and kinder on the occupants. An inflatable keel changes the shape of the bottom and is better for rowing and power. Prices rise in the same order, and all the budget ones are similar price subject to "offers" from time to time.

You can also get boats at a higher price level (£700+) and the difference is mostly in better quality and more fittings, better finish and appearance, but functionally little different.
 
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