Extended warranties of up to three years can also be purchased, for those who really want the best coverage. This is one of the priciest and heaviest inflatable boats on the test and one of the largest in packed dimensions. It comes with a removable wood floor that can be installed in seconds for a stable casting platform. One of the biggest selling points of Newport Vessels boats is how easy they are to assemble and disassemble. It features a fuel tank strap, a decent keel strip to prevent damage on slipways, a decent bow carry handle and rowlock cleats.

An inflatable boat is essentially a glorified balloon, with a simple design, made from relatively inexpensive materials. We and our partners use cookies and similar tech to improve your site experience, show you personalised ads, and learn from your behaviour so we can, for example, recommend products you'll love! No matter what style appeals to you, or what you plan to do with your future boat, it’s important to pay attention to the materials used in the craft’s construction. There is a hefty rubbing strake with raised levels to block spray and the rowlocks double as cleats. From a Midlands-based company that specialises in inflatable boats, this came with a great double-action hand pump and was the only boat on test with an over-pressure valve – a useful feature for exposure to the hot sun.The Mirovia Pro is manufactured from a tough high-strength and high-density PVC material, that’s tear and rip resistant, protects against the harmful effects of UV rays, with added terylene support.

The Intex Excursion 5 Person Inflatable Boat Set is a great entry-level inflatable boat to consider. You’ll receive one PVC boat hull (the model reviewed), and other materials such as repair patches and a foot pump in addition to the product itself. The HydroForce Caspian Pro 9’3″ inflatable boat is a great device that is perfect for fishing, as it is UV-protected and can take on abrasions or injuries from pollutants. While you’d think that an inflatable boat would obviously be sold with paddles, or a pump, and perhaps even a puncture repair kit as standard equipment, that is not always the case. If you’re planning on only going out on the water with company, then make sure you find one that’s appropriate for your group size.If taken care of carefully, there’s no reason why this cheap little runner won’t last you for many, many years. There were no carry handles on the sponsons and the safety rope fixings aren’t as solid as many of the other inflatable boats on test, although there are rowlock cleats and the seat is fully adjustable. Designed with heavy duty, puncture resistant PVC for comfort and durability, and an inflatable I-beam floor for rigidity, the boat contains three air chambers including an inner auxiliary chamber inside the main hull for extra safety.