Brand new inflatable boats can cost hundreds of dollars. Better quality boats cost upwards of $1000.
That’s why it is no surprise that more and more people are opting to go for used or second-hand inflatable boats.
So if you’re planning on purchasing one but do not have a clue where to start…
FEAR NOT!
Here are 10 helpful tips on how to buy a used inflatable boat. Read more
Getting an electric trolling motor for your inflatable raft or dinghy is a great upgrade. It makes boating fun for the family, and fishing trips much easier.
Choosing an engine to power your inflatable boat can be very difficult though. A lot of motors have features that are appealing, but there is no way of knowing which claims are true unless purchased and tested. In these cases, regret and buyers remorse will emerge.
We’ve put together a thorough guide on everything you need to know about electric trolling motors to help you in deciding which one is the perfect engine for your SIB. Read more
Whether you want to create shade when boating on a hot summer day or you just want to make sure your boat is well protected from the blazing heat of the sun, a bimini top (aka canopy) works wonders.
With all the comfort and convenience it offers, a bimini can, without a doubt, give you a better boating experience.
In this guide to inflatable boat biminis, you’ll learn everything you need to be able to choose, install and use a bimini on your SIB.
What is a Bimini Top?
A Bimini top is simply an open-front canvas top for a boat which is usually supported by a metal frame.
Most bimini tops can be easily folded back when not in use and be raised again when needed.
What is a Canopy?
Do you know what is the difference between a bimini top and a canopy?
Nothing 🙂 They are synonyms when it comes to boating, and are used interchangeably. The official name is bimini top though, but many people say canopy.
Punctures and leaks on inflatable boats are rare, but risky and unpredictable. It is wise to inspect your boat on a regular basis, otherwise you may find yourself on a sinking ship.
To check if your dinghy has a leak, you can simply leave it inflated for a period of time. A dinghy in good condition will remain tightly inflated. But if it is losing air pressure and has become soft over time, it might either be caused by cold temperature or by a puncture or tear that is slowly leaking air.
If you suspect that your dinghy has a leak, below is a complete guide on how to find leaks and how to correctly use boat sealants in repairing your SIB.
Inflatable boats are durable, but like any other equipment, proper maintenance is a must to keep your dinghy in good condition.
However, accidents do happen.
Punctures and leaks are rare, but can be problematic. A slow air leak can be especially annoying, especially when you can’t find the source of the problem.
If your boat is losing air pressure – which is not caused by cold temperature – then, read this guide on how to fix punctures and slow air leaks in your inflatable boat.
A pro tip: Before you go out on the water, check your dinghy for punctures, leaks, or any other problems. Small problems can generally be fixed easily, but larger issues might need professional handling. Either way, it will be easier to locate the problem area in your home rather than on the water.
Now, that leads us to the first step:
During off-season or winter season, we usually bid farewell to our inflatable boats temporarily. But, storing an inflatable boat for a long period of time can be risky if not done correctly.
Here is a checklist of what you have to remember about storing your beloved dinghy.
Inflatable boats are hard wearing, but without proper care, your inflatable boats will not last as long as they were meant to. As durable as they may be, we have to take necessary precautions to keep them in good condition.
One of the problems that inflatable boat owners face is the formation of mold and mildew in their boats.
Mold can cause your inflatable boat to degrade over time.
Not to mention, it smells really bad.
So to keep your inflatable boats in top condition, here are a few clever tips and advice on how to properly dry your boat and how to keep mold and mildew away.
One of the first things you must consider when deciding which inflatable boat to buy is the type of material it is made from.
Choosing the right kind of material is crucial as it will certainly impact your inflatable boat experience.
If you’re considering buying an inflatable boat, be it a dinghy, pontoon boat, kayak, or just an inflatable raft, you are probably curious about its lifespan, so in other words, how long you can expect your boat to function safely.
Knowing how long inflatable boats last is especially important if you are considering buying a used inflatable watercraft.
What is the average lifespan of inflatable boats?
On average, the life expectancy of a properly kept inflatable boat is 10-15 years.
With that said, know that it’s hard to give an average lifespan because there are several factors at play that will shorten or lengthen it.
Here are the factors that can lengthen, or reduce the lifespan of an inflatable boat:
- age of boat
- material used (PVC vs Hypalon)
- hand glued vs machine welded seams
- amount of UV rays the boat was exposed to
- how the boat was stored when not in use
If you want your inflatable boat performing at its best, you need to keep it inflated at the correct air pressure.
But as with many things in life, the answer isn’t simple.
Read this entire article to find out what the correct air pressure is for an inflatable boat, be it a dinghy, kayak, SUP or a pontoon boat.
Recommended air pressure for the different parts of an inflatable boat
Here is the data you are primarily looking for. Mind you, these are averages. Be sure to read the rest of the article as well.
| Recommended PSI | |
|---|---|
| Main tubes | 2.5 – 3.5 |
| Keel | 4 – 4.5 |
| High pressure air floor |
8.5 – 11.5 |
| SUPs | 10 – 20 |
With that said, keep in mind that the recommended PSI for your dinghy, kayak or pontoon boat may vary slightly. Read more