Best Inflatable Boats

Review & Comparison, Last Update March 22, 2024
Camping, exploring, fishing, tubing... Now all is possible with inflatable boats! They are versatile, portable, inexpensive, and easy to set up. Choose one and never miss a chance to fall down a river! ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
PASSENGER CAPACITY
WEIGHT LIMIT
ITEM WEIGHT
FLOORING
AIR CHAMBERS
EXTRAS
USABILITY
DIMENSIONS
Warranty
 
PROS
Heavy-duty plastic flooring provides good resistance of the boat on the water. Inflatable keel improves directional stability and control.
CONS
A bit heavy for one person to carry.
OUR VERDICT
High reliability of design allows you to apply high power motor which can provide extremely fast speed! The best ratio of versatility, quality, and the price.
detailed parameters
PASSENGER CAPACITY
4 people
WEIGHT LIMIT
880 pounds
ITEM WEIGHT
84 pounds
FLOORING
Heavy-duty extruded plastic
AIR CHAMBERS
4 chambers, PVC
EXTRAS
4 mounting holes allow you to set a motor, Battery pouch, Gear pouch, An inflatable keel
USABILITY
3 inflatable seat cushions, Grab handles, 2 fishing rod holders, 2 rotating oar locks and oar holders, Pump kit, Repair patch
DIMENSIONS
57" х 129"
Warranty
2-year limited warranty
PROS
Four swivel oarlocks will let two people row naturally and easily. The draining valve at the bottom allows you to drain the penetrated water quickly.
CONS
It can be pretty small for 4 people, much better for 2 people.
OUR VERDICT
Due to its size and capacity, this boat is perfect for fishing, cruising, or just relaxing on the lake with your friends or children.
detailed parameters
PASSENGER CAPACITY
4 people
WEIGHT LIMIT
700 pounds
ITEM WEIGHT
35 pounds
FLOORING
Inflatable floor
AIR CHAMBERS
3 chambers, PVC
EXTRAS
Outboard fittings let you mount a motor, Battery bag, Gear bag, Double Lock™ valves, Two additional air chambers
USABILITY
2 inflatable seats, Carry handles, 2 fishing rod holders, 4 Delrin® swivel oarlocks
DIMENSIONS
56" х 109"
Warranty
90-day limited warranty
PROS
A comfortable storage bag is included in a kit. The roomy bag for fishing tackle allows you to store all essentials and a lot of accessories .
CONS
Included oars are not designed for heavy loads.
OUR VERDICT
This boat is perfect for a young family. It is good for romantic trips with your loved one as well as for fishing on the lake or in a quiet bay.
detailed parameters
PASSENGER CAPACITY
2 adults and 1 child
WEIGHT LIMIT
594 pounds
ITEM WEIGHT
33.1 pounds
FLOORING
High-pressure inflatable floor
AIR CHAMBERS
3 chambers, PVC
EXTRAS
Additional grommets for a motor mounting, Bag for fishing tackle
USABILITY
2 inflatable seats, Carry handles, 2 fishing rod holders, 2 swivel oarlocks, Oars, Pump kit, Carrying bag
DIMENSIONS
50" х 115"
Warranty
30-day warranty against manufacturing defects
PROS
Seats with inflatable backrests are more comfortable compared to the other models. An additional inflatable pillow can be even used as a table.
CONS
Included oars are a bit short.
OUR VERDICT
Thanks to its dimensions, the boat is perfect for rest or fishing on the lake with a small company of friends.
detailed parameters
PASSENGER CAPACITY
5 people
WEIGHT LIMIT
1000 pounds
ITEM WEIGHT
53 pounds
FLOORING
Inflatable I-Beam floor
AIR CHAMBERS
3 chambers, PVC
EXTRAS
Motor Mount Fitting, A bag for fishing tackle
USABILITY
2 inflatable seats with backrests and a cushion, 4 fishing rod holders, 2 welded oarlocks, Oars, Pump, Repair patch
DIMENSIONS
66" х 144"
Warranty
30-day warranty against manufacturing defects
PROS
To harden the construction and increase boat's elasticity, the manufacturer used an additional coat of PVC. A durable and rigid bottom is made of plywood.
CONS
Somewhat heavy for a transportation.
OUR VERDICT
It's an ideal choice for people who are looking for a durable inflatable boat with an extremely powerful motor (up to 10 HP).
detailed parameters
PASSENGER CAPACITY
3 people
WEIGHT LIMIT
1067 pounds
ITEM WEIGHT
108 pounds
FLOORING
Aluminum framed marine coated with plywood
AIR CHAMBERS
4 chambers (3 tubes + 1 keel), PVC
EXTRAS
Transom piece for motor, Oar locks, Oar holders
USABILITY
Aluminum bench seat, 2 aluminum oars, Foot pump, Repair kit, One-way drain plug, 2 mounted carrying handles, Carrying & storage bag
DIMENSIONS
60" x 106''
Warranty
2-year limited warranty
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Intex Mariner 4

Capacity

The manufacturer has used modern materials and technologies to produce Intex Mariner 4-person boat! So, it can load up to 880 pounds and hold this weight on the water without any problems. The length of the boat is 129" and the width is 57". It can comfortably accommodate 3-4 people. Consequently, this super boat will allow you to relax with your family on the lake, on the sea bay, or on the calm river. You can also use this boat for fishing with your friends or for transportation of some goods to the other bank of the river.

Review of Intex Mariner 4 Set with Aluminum Oars & High Output Air Pump

Design

If you are keen on different water activities, you will definitely appreciate this inflatable boat! It is made of a strong, three-layer PVC which boasts good elasticity and high resistance to ultraviolet. Moreover, 4 separate chambers make it possible to maintain the buoyancy of the boat, even if one of them is punctured. Each chamber has a Boston valve which can hold the air inside reliably and deflate the boat really quickly. The floor is made of plastic which provides good stiffness and allows you to stand inside comfortably. The inflatable keel significantly increases stability and controllability. If necessary, you can easily install a small motor. The stock is running out! Don't miss a chance to get this super rubber boat!

Intex Mariner 4 Set with Aluminum Oars & High Output Air Pump in the use

Conveniences

You can place everything and everyone on this boat! Intex Mariner is equipped with three inflatable seats with cushions which allow you to place all of the passengers with comfort. There is also a gear pouch for storing the motor batteries or your essentials, which will protect them from the sun and water. Two rod holders are located on different sides, ensuring a comfortable fishing trip for two people. What's more, the boat also has a special pouch for fishing tackle to keep all the essentials at your fingertips. This boat is equipped with two swivel oarlocks which perfectly hold the oaks. And you can use the boat just after unpacking because two oars and a pump are included in the kit. Super!

Detailed review of Intex Mariner 4 Set with Aluminum Oars & High Output Air Pump
Last updated price $341.39
Stock In stock
ASIN B00CMBTCHW

VIDEO
The NEW Intex Mariner 4 Inflatable Raft
 

Sevylor HF 280

Capacity

You will surely be surprised at this boat! The manufacturer presents this model as a boat for fishing, but you can use it for a variety of tasks, such as exploring, tubing, rafting, sailing with friends. The size of 56"x109" along with the maximum load of 700 pounds allow 4 people to load into this boat. Nevertheless, for comfortable accommodation, it is better to use this model for 3 people if you want just to sail, and for 2 people if you are going to fish on a lake or river. So, if you want to have a relaxing trip with your loved ones, this rubber boat is what you need!

Review of Sevylor HF 280 4-Person

Design

This boat is manufactured with safety and comfort in mind! It includes three main chambers and two small stabilization chambers at the bottom. This allows increasing of its resistance to water. One interesting fact is that the board chambers are not located the same way as in other boats - one camera is external and the other is internal. This design provides great safety and high buoyancy, even if one chamber is punctured. There is also a separate valve at the bottom which allows you to drain the water quickly. The two chambers are equipped with on-off valves that allow you to deflate or inflate the boat quickly. If you are a bit afraid of inflatable boats, cast aside all fear. This boat will ensure flawless safety!

 

Sevylor HF 280 4-Person in the use

Conveniences

If you want to go fishing with your son, this boat can do you a great service! Sevylor Coleman Fish Hunter is equipped with four swivel oarlocks, what allows two people to row together. Two removable inflatable seats provide comfortable placement and make it possible to organize the space in the boat. Closer to the aft, you can find two rod holders where you can put your spinnings or rods during the fishing. In addition, there is a special pouch for batteries and a separate pocket for fishing tackles and other little things. Two carrying handles will help you easily transport this 35-pound boat to the water or to the car. The sale ends soon, so go ahead and buy it cheaper!

Detailed review of Sevylor HF 280 4-Person
Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B00IAAC5O6

VIDEO
Sevylor HF 250 Boat & 18LB Trolling Motor Review & Test!
 

Bestway 65044

Capacity

Do you and your family like to spend time together? The best option is to spend time on the water! Bestway Hydro-Force Marine Pro is the boat for young families. It is designed for sailing on calm water or on the sea bay. The length of the boat is 115", the width is 50", and the maximum load is 594 pounds. These parameters allow placing two adults and one child comfortably. So, the boat is perfect for a family rest at the nearest lake in the summer. You will definitely enjoy this boat if you like interesting family trips!

Review of Bestway 65044 Marine Pro

Design

Like most models, the boat is made of high-strength PVC material and consists of three separate chambers. Two of the chambers are the sides of the boat, and one is the bottom. Thus, you don't need to worry about the safety of your family at all! If one is punched, you can safely get to the bank with two chambers. The sides of the boat are pumped with Boston on-off valve, and the bottom with the standard one. You can find three special holes on the boat for a motor, which will let you move on water very fast. If you like this boat, go ahead and buy it cheaper! The sale is over soon!

Bestway 65044 Marine Pro in the use

Conveniences

This model is equipped with a special bag to carry and store this flat boat, two 60" aluminium oars, and a pump. It's self-evident that with such a set, this boat can be used just after unpacking! What's more, two inflatable seats can be removed or replaced easily for you to use the boat as a kayak or just rearrange the space if you want to. To store the additional equipment or fishing tackle, you can find a pouch. The oars are mounted on two swivel oarlocks, which provides comfortable control and easy rowing. During the fishing, you can set spinning or rod in the special holders located on the sides of this amazing boat!

Detailed review of Bestway 65044 Marine Pro
Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B00F0B942O

VIDEO
Bestway Hydroforce
 

Intex Excursion 5

Capacity

Have you ever think about making a "boat party"? This boat has excellent features that allow you to use it for recreation with a small group of friends! A pretty impressive length and width let you place a group of 4-5 people and a lot of different fishing tackles or other essentials. To be more precise, the boat can load about 1000 pounds! So, you can use this boat for a variety of different tasks on a lake or river. You, your family and friends will fall in love with this model without any doubt!

Review of Intex Excursion 5 with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air Pump

Design

Despite huge dimensions, this inflatable is extremely safe! Intex Excursion 5, as most models of this class, has three chambers. One chamber is an inflatable bottom that can be inflated with a standard valve, which allows you to inflate it even without a pump. Two others are the inner and outer chamber of the sides. Hence, such a design allows the boat to stay safe in water even if it is punctured. Finally, if you would like to go fast and change the place of fishing quickly, you can install a small motor on this model. We are sure that you will like this rubber boat after the first minutes of use!

Intex Excursion 5 with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air Pump in the use

Conveniences

You will enjoy this rubber dinghy! The boat features 4 fishing holders which are located in every corner of the boat and two inflatable seats with backrests. So, four fishermen (and one observer) can enjoy the fishing process in this super boat. Furthermore, if you feal that you do not have enough space, you can easily remove all the seats for a free organisation of inner space. The kit includes two 54" oars which can be placed in the special oarlocks. Note that a pump and a repair kit are already included. For convenient storage of the gear, you can find a special pouch that lets you have all essentials within easy reach. To sum up, this boat is absolutely worth every penny!

Detailed review of Intex Excursion 5 with Aluminum Oars and High Output Air Pump
Last updated price $299.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B00CMBJ1VE

VIDEO
Intex Excursion 5 Inflatable Boat Video Review by Rubber Boats
 

Newport Vessels 806737620111

Your Mini Boat

The outstanding feature of Newport Vessels Dana Inflatable Dinghy Boat is its inflatable keel. As a rule, every motorboat has a keel to ensure stability and to resist lurching and capsizing. This keel is situated in the middle of a vessel bottom and, thus, you can be sure of your safety while traveling or recreating. And if you are dreaming of an inflatable boat with a powerful motor, you should definitely consider this one! A durable transom, made of composite materials, provides mounting of an outboard motor (up to 10 HP). This feature transforms this rubber boat into a real high-speed motorboat! So, now you and your family are welcome to enjoy beautiful landscapes during long boat tours.

Review of Newport Vessels 806737620111 USCG Rated

A Hole in the Boat? Here are Some Tips

During a "small voyage," an inflatable boat might get damaged (punctures, rips, bottom and board damages). Hence, before going for a row you ought to make sure that you’ve got all essential tools to be able to repair your boat in case of emergency. And it’s important that you examine your boat first thing first. As much as you might not like an idea, we do recommend you to inflate the boat and check it for holes before go on water. If you hear a hissing sound, well, here you are, you need our advice. Most of the time, it’s almost impossible to see the holes by eye and the only way to detect faults is to cover the surface of boat with soapsuds and see where they start bubbling. That’s going to be a source of air leak. If there’s not one but several holes, make sure to mark the first one somehow so as not to forget where the defect has been detected. Turn the boat upside down and track it down on possible tear. If there’s a problem, you need to glue a patch to it. Push it through the damaged chamber of the boat, then straighten it and press tight from the inside. On the exterior, you should do the same. Obviously, punctures are easier to repair in comparison to rips since you need to put a patch only on the outside. Hopefully, these simple steps will help you revamp and prolong the service life of your inflatable boat!

More Products to Consider

You may also like this Trolling Motor with 5 forward and 3 reverse speeds for maximum control.

If you're looking for a rechargeable battery for motor, we'd like to advise considering Motor Battery Sevylor Minn Kota with the power of 35 HP.

Detailed review of Newport Vessels 806737620111 USCG Rated

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $2,084.67
Stock In stock
ASIN B004BCSRIK

VIDEO
Newport Vessels - Inflatable Boat Deflation & Storage Instructions
 

What is an Inflatable Boat

If you love spending time on the water with your friends or family, this review is just what you need! Now the market is full of different inflatable boats. Why are they so popular? A secret is that they are extremely portable, light, easy to maintain, and can be inflated just in a matter of minutes. All you have to do is unfold, pump it up, and launch! An inflatable boat gets its buoyancy from pressurized air in its chambers. Certainly, they boast some more advantages: pretty good buoyancy, portability, and innate dynamic stability. But how to choose the best one? There is no "the best boat" but for sure there is a "the best boat for you". So, before choosing the inflatable boat, you need to know a few things.

Yet if you enjoy active water activities or can't live without falling down the stormy river, we recommend you to look at the Inflatable Kayaks. If you don't want to row oars, we’d like to offer you more detailed reviews on Trolling motors.

What Features to Compare

Capacity

The first thing you need to decide while choosing an inflatable boat is how many people and where will use it. After you decide, you will be able to choose the proper size and capacity of the boat. If you are going to use it for fishing on a lake with your friend or son, it is better to choose the boat with the capacity around 600-700 pounds. This option is optimal both in size and usability. But if you search the one for recreation with your family, you need to choose the model which can load around 800-900 pounds with 9-foot length. Large boats that are longer than 12 feet allow you to take on board more than 1,000 pounds, which is great for big friendly companies. 

Design

Once you have decided on the capacity of your boat, do not forget to check the design peculiarities. Pay attention to the number of inflatable chambers, the bottom, and valves. The more inflatable chambers are in the boat, the higher is its reliability, since if one chamber is damaged, the others will be able to hold the load without any problems. If the floor of the boat is made of plastic, wood or aluminum, it will be much easier to stand up inside the boat on the water. The point is that the bottom will not sag under the feet, and you will be able to fish with your spinning. The speed of inflation or deflation will depend on the valves type. For example, two Boston valves can help quickly inflate the boat and won't deflate even if the lid accidentally opens. Also, you need to take into the account the possibility of installing the motor which will let you move much faster. 

Conveniences

Since the boat is designed for the rest, its usability is of great importance too. Some extras can dramatically improve the comfort. For example, the big number of inflatable seats allows you to accommodate your family or friends comfortably, and the possibility of rearranging the seats lets you organize the space inside the boat. Swivel oarlocks for oars ensure a comfortable control of the boat. What's more, by using the rods stands, you can free up your hands while fishing. Special bags or compartments for fishing tackle allows you to keep all your essentials at hand. The handles and light weight make transportation quick and easy. Also, pay attention to the packaging: as a rule, it includes oars, storage case, pump, and repair kit. 

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