What is an Inflatable Boat? Fun, Affordable, Great for the Family

Starting up an Inflatable Boat -
by Marie C. Dimino

An inflatable boat is a great alternative if you live in the city. It's compact and ready to travel with you and your family at a moment's notice.

 

 

If you’ve ever dreamed about owning a boat but live in the city and think you can’t, an inflatable boat may be just for you. Once considered only for lifeguards and as add-ons to larger boats, these boats have come a long way.

An inflatable boat is not only easy to care for. It can be folded up to fit into a closet. This one feature alone makes owning a boat possible for those with small apartments or limited yard or driveway space. With rising gas prices, an inflatable may be a dream come true and can make boating possible for those who cannot afford larger boats.

There are many companies producing inflatables, and you should really do some research before making a decision. Make your purchase according to what your needs are. These boats can be used for fishing, sailing, camping, tubing, water-skiing, scuba diving or just to take to the lake or ocean on a nice sunny day. A family can pack a lunch and enjoy an inexpensive day together.

Types of Inflatable Boats

A 10-hp motor is all that is needed and can reach up to 30 mph. If speed is your thing, a larger motor can also be used. There is room enough to relax and the boat can easily hold fishing equipment or scuba gear. Some can accommodate a family of up to seven adults. The boats come with oars if you choose to quietly row and enjoy the scenery.

Many options are available and accessories can be purchased as your needs arise. There are inflatable kayaks, canoes and sailboats, as well as motor boats. They can easily be towed on a trailer or set right on top of your car's roof rack. Padded seats, canopies and other extras can be added later on depending on how far you want to go and how much you want to spend. A safety bag is often included, which holds the foot pump and emergency patches. The bag should be brought on the water with you.

Inflating Inflatables

The job of inflating a boat can vary depending on the size and what type of boat you choose. The boats come with more than one chamber and should be filled according to the owner’s manual.

A foot pump usually comes with the boat. It takes between five and ten minutes to inflate until firm.

Electric pumps come in several types. High pressure-low volume compressors are used for auto and truck tires. This will not inflate your boat quickly and will, in fact, take hours. Low pressure-high volume compressors that are used for air mattresses and inexpensive inflatables whose operating pressure is 1/2 lb. Psi will fill your boat 25%. High pressure-high volume is what you need and they usually have a built-in gage which shuts off at a pre-selected pressure.

Where to Inflate

The convenience of an inflatable boat makes it possible to travel with it deflated until you reach your destination. The boat deflates as easily as it inflates. Just open the valves, deflate, pack it up, and go home.

If you already have a trailer or a roof rack on your car, an inflatable boat can be filled at home. The only thing you have to do is unload it onto the water and start having fun.

Registration and Licensing

As with all motor boats, these must be registered and licensed before taken out on the water. Check with your area and make sure you have the proper permits. Some lakes require permits that can take up to two months to process. You will also have to check to make sure that the park, lake or ocean has a boat landing and what rules and regulations are, since this varies.

Whether you want to sail the high seas, or just enjoy a nice day out on the water, an inflatable boat may be just for you.  Maybe it's time treat yourself to a luxury you thought you could never afford.