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Inflatables - very versatile and unsinkable
Inflatables belong to the most adaptable boats. The fire brigade use it for rescue operations. Sports anglers and birdwatchers use it for their boat trips. Whether new or used, with or without motor, there are some unbeatable advantages compared to the classical boat. It is small, light and quick to pack. If you choose an inflatable with rigid hull, you get a boat which is more stable and less risky. Although it needs a permanent parking space and is not suited as small holiday accompanist, but with it's buoyancy tubes the stronger inflatable offers far more safety and relaxed comfort. The modern buoyancy tube stretches around the whole boat. It ensures such a strong buoyancy while shifting the emphasis, that the boat stays balanced. Even with high water in the boat the buoyancy tube ensures it is not sinking. Provide your inflatable with an outboard motor and enjoy the driving fun to the full!
Buying inflatables - which type suits me?
Which model is worthy of consideration? It depends on your practical experience with inflatables. There are great models for beginners and pros, adjustable to your individual needs. The able to be dismantled inflatable with a length of three meters is very suitable for beginners without driving licence. Transport that rubber dinghy easily in your estate car! With a power up to 15 HP the classic among the inflatables rapidly glides over calm water. For boat drivers with licence professional inflatables are worthy of consideration. For a transport you have to take care of the weight of the outboard motor. Boats with a length more than 4 meters could get equipped with many interesting features and accessories.
Taking part everywhere - from a swimming trip to a maritime rescue mission
Besides your individual skills take care of the purpose of your inflatable. Inflatable kayaks are suitable for white water trips. Regular sports inflatables up to 15 HP could be driven without driving licence on every inland water (except Rhine and Lake Constance). The driving properties of an inflatable depend on the prevailing hull construction. Simple boats are suitable for calm water only. The more larger and stronger the hull is, the more suitable for rough water is the model. The DLRG uses rigid hull models for it's missions. The more flater a hull becomes, the more faster a boat starts to glide. For your fishing trips you should use a boat with a silent electric motor. If you prefer trips in rougher water we recommend professional models from Zodiac.
Boating an inflatable - But safely!
Safety comes first - especially with small boats. Don't carry more passengers than allowed with your boat. In principle you can determine the number of passengers by the size of a boat and vice versa. The rule of thumb is: maximum four passengers on a three meter boat, up to six passengers on a four meter boat and eight passengers on a five meter boat. Wear fitting life jackets for your safety and carry a repair kit, if your inflatable needs to patch up. It would be best if you practice some repair works on your inflatable at home to be prepared in case of emergency.
Tips and tricks for a long life
On the most inflatables you can fill in or let off the gas. That favours the transport- and storage ability of the boat. As inflatables lose a small amount of gas, please fill in new gas, before you use it. On the basis of the frequenzy you have to do it you can assess the age and level of wear and tear of the boat. With new boats you have to refill gas one time the week. With older boats increasingly more often. A high quality inflatable reaches a life span of ten years and more.
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