Choosing an inflatable?

7tiger7 · #1 (**permalink**) 02-23-2009

Hi,
I'm moving up to a Catalina 30, and would like to have a simple inflatable to use a few times during the summer to get from the boat to some islands here in Boston. Not serious cruising, and not alot of use, just maybe use the inflatable 4-6 times a summer.
What brands do you recommend? What are the differences between all of them?
I'd probably put a small 4-6 hp outboard on it. Any recommendations on outboard brands? I'd like to spend as little as possible, and still get something that wont fall apart.
Phillip

KindOfBlue · #2 (**permalink**) 02-23-2009

You can start here. West Marine: West Advisor

soulesailor · #3 (**permalink**) 02-23-2009

Most inflatables are made out of either hypalon or PVC, this is your first choice. Hypalon is heavier but is more resistent to abuse and can be successfully patched indefinitely. PVC is lighter but doesn't take abuse as well. Abuse doesn't necessarily mean mistreating your dinghy, with PVC sand from the beach can grind away in the seams each time it is inflated/deflated until the leaks are too many to overcome.

For the least amount of money possible for something that won't fall apart I would get a used hypalon dinghy.

xort · #4 (**permalink**) 02-23-2009

6 hp gets a bit heavy. will you be able to manage it? lift it up to the boat to store it?
the dink will need a solid transom to hold that engine, so make sure you get that.
how will you store the dink & engine & fuel cans? many options ... towing, rolling up, davits, foredeck storage, etc