The 7 best inflatable boats 2024? (recommendations)

Inflatable boats are a dime a dozen. But which one is right for your next outing?

Benefit from experience:

Avoid the usual mistakes when buying an inflatable boat. BeyondSurfing has taken a closer look at the most popular models of 2020 and shows you the best offers reviewed.

Safety first:

You can also find out how to recognize a good inflatable boat and what you should stay away from. You are guaranteed to find the right boat for your next excursion.

The best inflatable boat 2024?

In a hurry? Our favorite inflatable boat:

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The TOP 7 inflatable boats 2024

Best high quality inflatable boat

1. ArtSport 320

Conclusion

The Artsport 320 is a versatile inflatable boat for use on lakes, rivers and in bays. The aluminum floor and the fixed benches make the inflatable boat particularly stable.

The boat has an engine pressure plate (so-called transom). This means that the boat can also be moved without muscle power using an outboard motor with up to 15 hp.

Thanks to the air keel, the boat has very good directional stability. The material is hard-wearing, UV-resistant and easy to clean.

Customer ratings

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Best stable inflatable boat

2. intex Mariner 3

Conclusion

The Mariner 3 from Intex offers excellent value for money. If you are looking for a very robust and stable inflatable boat for 2-3 people, you have found it in this model.

Thanks to the three-layer material and rubbing strake, the boat will not be damaged even if it collides with the jetty. Even standing in the boat is possible thanks to a special floor construction.

However, the stable construction comes at a price: the boat is comparatively heavy and has a relatively large pack size.

Customer ratings

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Best comfortable inflatable boat

3. intex Excursion 5

Conclusion

The Intex Excursion 5 is a particularly large inflatable boat with a load capacity of up to 600 kg. The boat offers space for up to 5 people and is therefore perfect for trips with friends or family.

Two of the three bench seats are particularly comfortable thanks to their backrests. The workmanship is of high quality and the equipment and accessories are extensive.

Customer ratings

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Further highlights

4. Sevylor Caravelle KK105 Sport

Conclusion

The Caravelle KK105 Sport from Sevylor is an uncomplicated bathing boat with simple equipment and a good price-performance ratio.

The special feature of this inflatable boat, reviewed against other boats in this class, is a fourth air chamber and a pressure indicator. With the help of the pressure control, the boat is always inflated with the correct air pressure, thus avoiding damage caused by too high or too low air pressure.

Customer ratings

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5. intex Seahawk 3

Conclusion

The Intex Seahawk 3 is a lightweight and robust inflatable boat for its weight. It is well suited for smaller tours on calm lakes and rivers. The price-performance ratio is outstanding.

The inflatable boat is suitable for two adults who can be comfortably accommodated. A third person can also carry the boat, but then it gets a bit cramped. Small tours are also possible with this boat. It is just heavy enough to be carried on its own.

Customer ratings

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6. Bestway Hydro Force Voyager

Conclusion

The Bestway Hydro Force Voyager is a simple bathing and excursion boat for 2-3 adults. It is lightweight and has a small pack size.

The seats supplied are not a matter of course in this price range. The clamping brackets on the sides of the inflatable boat for storing the oars are also particularly noteworthy. The outer shell is relatively thin, making the inflatable boat correspondingly fragile.

Customer ratings

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7. Bestway Hydro Force Raft

Conclusion

The Bestway Hydro Force Raft is very reasonably priced and is particularly suitable as a bathing boat for children to splash around in on the lake. It is lightweight, easy to stow away and can be inflated quickly. It is rather unsuitable for touring or longer excursions.

Customer ratings

Bestsellers: The most popular inflatable boats

(**Last update 2024-09-16)

Rating: inflatable boats reviewed

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Buy an inflatable boat:
How to make the right decision

The number of German water sports enthusiasts who do water sports several times a month has more than doubled in the last three years (source: statista.com). The range of different inflatable boats is getting bigger and bigger and therefore more and more confusing.

The good news:

A high-quality inflatable boat does not have to be expensive. The intended use determines what requirements you should place on your new inflatable boat and how much money you need to invest.

The advantages and disadvantages of inflatable boats

Family fun for a weekend outing

Stowed away in the trunk to save space, quickly inflated and out on the water. This is the main advantage of an inflatable boat. Even a simple rubber dinghy is enough for a short trip on the water.

Inflatable boats offer space for several people, are stable on the water and can be used without prior knowledge. An inflatable boat with an inflatable floor is comfortable and ideal for sunbathing in the boat.

Inflatable fishing boats are also well suited for fishing if you don’t have to cover long distances. But inflatable boats also have disadvantages that other types of boat do not have.

Inflatable boats cannot hold air permanently

Depending on the production quality, air must be pumped in at regular intervals. So if you only keep your boat inflated in one place, it is better to choose a boat with a rigid hull, e.g. made of PE plastic.

If you prefer to paddle yourself, you should forego the high tipping stability of the inflatable boat and opt for a sleek inflatable canoe or a fast inflatable kayak.

Material of inflatable boats

Although inflatable boats are often referred to colloquially as “rubber boats”, rubber has not been used in their manufacture for a long time.

These are the most important materials used in the manufacture of inflatable boats:

1. Plastic films

   Cheap to manufacture, not permanently airtight.

2. PVC

   Very good value for money. As plasticizers evaporate over time, they can only be kept for about 10-15 years. PVC requires continuous maintenance.

3. Hypalon-neoprene blend

   Expensive to manufacture, but lasts for decades.

4. Ethylene propylene diene rubber (EPDM)

   Used for particularly high-quality inflatable boats. Withstands increased loads and high pressure. Decades of durability, but also significantly more expensive than PVC.

5. Multilayer fabrics

   For example, the three-layer “super-tough material” from Intex (PVC-polyester-PVC), even more robust and durable than simple PVC.

The right material thickness?

Not only the material is decisive for the robustness of the inflatable boat, but also the material thickness. The thicker the material, the more durable, stable and robust the boat.

But thick material has a disadvantage:

The thicker the material, the heavier and more expensive the boat. The question is whether more value is placed on robustness or weight.

Inflatable boat size

The size of the inflatable boat depends on the intended use. The manufacturer’s information on the number of people should be regarded as a rough guide.

Why?

If a manufacturer states that there is room for 6 people in the boat, then 6 average adults will fit in, but it will usually be very cramped.

What many people forget:

Sitting comfortably should be possible without any problems. Sufficient space for provisions must also be planned.

Inflatable boat floors

There are three main types of floor for inflatable boats:

1. Fixed floor made of aluminum, wood or plastic

   Offer maximum stability. Standing in the boat is possible, but also unwieldy and heavy.

2. Air base with plastic shelves

   A compromise between an air floor and a fixed floor. Also allows you to stand in the boat.

3. Air floor

   Light and less robust against grounding. You cannot stand up in the boat.

Transom and outboard motor

If the inflatable boat is to be moved with an outboard motor to save energy, a transom for attaching the outboard motor is absolutely essential.

There are inflatable boats that:

• have the rear-view mirror permanently integrated,
• A rear-view mirror can be retrofitted to other models and
• Others do not have a rear-view mirror.

If you would like to operate the inflatable boat with an outboard motor, the following points should be noted:

1. Ensure that the maximum power of the outboard motor specified by the manufacturer and approved for the inflatable boat is not exceeded.
2. In addition, only use outboards with the shaft length suitable for the boat(see FAQ). .
3. Please note that a boating license is required in Germany for engines with 15 hp or more and that only electric outboards, e.g. Prowake electric outboards, are permitted on some waters.

Inflatable boat accessories

Many inflatable kayaks are sold as a set with oars, pump and transport bag. However, many buyers are often dissatisfied with the accessories, as the pumps and oars supplied are of inadequate quality. If you want to be on the safe side, it is better to buy the accessories separately.

What to take on an inflatable boat?

If you are planning a longer tour and want to go a little further away from where you are setting out, you should carry the following equipment in your inflatable boat:

• Swim vests:In the event of an accident on open water, swim vests can save lives.
• Waterproof backpacks or barrels:For packing any items that must not or should not get wet, such as provisions or electronic devices.
• Cell phone:To get help quickly in an emergency, it must be possible to contact the emergency services.
• Oil drum, bilge pump or sponge:To remove rain or spray water from the boat.
• Anchor:If you don’t want to drift off during a break on the water, you should drop an anchor.

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How do you transport an inflatable boat?

Inflatable boats can be transported in a variety of ways:

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Rowing a dinghy or paddling?

Dinghies can be rowed and paddled. Anyone who thinks it’s the same thing is wrong.

Rowing in an inflatable boat

Rowing is done facing against the direction of travel. Most inflatable boats are equipped with oarlocks. They transfer the power to the forward movement when rowing.

This is how it works:

Sit in the middle of the boat. The oars should be long enough so that the blades are fully immersed in the water as you pull the end of the shaft towards your chest with your arms outstretched.

Paddling in an inflatable boat

Paddling in the inflatable boat is done facing in the direction of travel. Use the right paddles for optimum locomotion.

This is how it works:

To paddle in an inflatable boat, it is best to sit on the tube of the boat facing forwards and use paddles. An inflatable boat is best paddled by at least two people.

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The right air pressure

The manufacturer provides an optimum air pressure for the boat. It is advisable to maintain this air pressure to avoid damage. As a rule, an average inflatable boat is inflated to around 0.2 – 0.3 bar.

Use pressure gauge:

Do not rely on your gut feeling, but rather use a hand or electric pump with a pressure gauge for precise air pressure.

Heat and cold influence the air pressure:

Bear in mind that the outside temperature influences the air pressure and can change over the period of use.

How exactly does it work?

Warm air expands cold air reduces the volume. The air pressure also drops when the boat is used in cold water.

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Repair inflatable boat

If a PVC inflatable boat has a hole, it is easy to repair. Either use the repair kit supplied with most inflatable boats or buy the 1-2-3 REPAIR for PVC repairs, for example.

After cleaning the patched area, apply the adhesive to the patch and press it into place for a few minutes. The inflatable boat is already tight again.

Conclusion: The most popular inflatable boats reviewed

The decisive factor in choosing the right inflatable boat is first and foremost the intended use. Weigh up whether a lightweight, often cheaper boat is enough for you or whether it should be more robust.

Lightweight vs. robust?

If in doubt, always choose the more robust inflatable boat, because your safety comes first.

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FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers about inflatable boats

What is an inflatable boat?

An inflatable boat is a boat based on a tubular, air-filled hull. Inflatable boats can have a solid floor made of plastic, aluminum or wood or an inflatable floor made of the same material as the hull.

Where can you ride an inflatable boat?

Always find out before an excursion whether the desired body of water can be used. Violation of navigation regulations can result in severe fines. Waters where navigation rules apply can quickly become dangerous.

You can find all the information you need to plan your tour at the German Canoe Association. Literature and maps are available on Amazon, for example. The “German River Hiking Book” provides a good overview of the most important waters for recreational sports.

How long does it take to inflate an inflatable boat?

Small boats can be inflated within about 10 minutes. It can take considerably longer for larger inflatable boats. Exactly how long depends very much on the volume of the boat, the quality of the pump or the endurance of the person inflating it.

What length should the oars for inflatable boats be?

The optimum shaft length depends on the width and height of the inflatable boat. The oar blades should always be fully immersed in the water and can be pulled comfortably from the center of the body out of the middle of the boat.

Most inflatable boats are sold as a set with oars. Here, the shaft length is usually optimally adapted to the boat.

In our experience, a good length for inflatable oars is between 120 and 160 cm.

How big should the inflatable boat be?

The size of the inflatable boat depends on the intended use. The manufacturer’s information on the number of people should be regarded as a rough guide.

What length should the oars for inflatable boats be?

The optimum shaft length depends on the width and height of the inflatable boat. The oar blades should always be fully immersed in the water and can be pulled comfortably from the center of the body out of the middle of the boat.

Most inflatable boats are sold as a set with oars. Here, the shaft length is usually optimally adapted to the boat.

In our experience, a good length for inflatable oars is between 120 and 160 cm.

How much air pressure (bar) is allowed on an inflatable boat?

The manufacturer provides an optimum air pressure for the boat. It is advisable to maintain this air pressure to avoid damage. As a rule, an average inflatable boat is inflated to around 0.2 – 0.3 bar.

How much does an inflatable boat cost?

The price range for inflatable boats is very wide. From 20 $ for bathing boats to several thousand $ for commercial lifeboats. There is a suitable model for every requirement and every budget.

What to look out for when buying an inflatable boat?

When buying an inflatable boat, it is important to choose the right size and the right equipment for your project. The biggest difference between the individual inflatable boat models lies in the quality and strength of the materials used.

You can find more information about the buying guide here.

Where can you buy inflatable boats?

If you are looking for specific features and prefer personal advice, then you should go to a specialist sports store such as empty or empty.

Other options for buying inflatable boats are discount stores or DIY stores, e.g. Lidl, Aldi, Hornbach or Bauhaus. The Internet also offers various platforms for buying an inflatable boat, e.g. Amazon or Ebay.

Important: The age of used inflatable boats should always be verified by the seller. The older the inflatable boat, the more susceptible the material is.

Which inflatable boat is the best?

Which inflatable boat is the best depends on the desired purpose, quality and size. The following models are very popular for family outings to the lake or for fishing:

1. ArtSport 320
2. Intex Mariner 3
3. Intex Excursion 5

Which inflatable boat with a dog?

If a dog is to be on board, the floor must be as robust as possible. This prevents the dog’s claws from damaging the boat. Inflatable boats with a fixed floor or inflatable boats with a multi-layered floor have proven their worth.

Which pump for inflatable kayak pumps?

The quickest and most convenient way to inflate an inflatable boat is to fill it with air electrically. There are various electric pumps that can be easily operated from the car’s cigarette lighter, e.g. the Ruitx DC high-pressure pump

If you want to inflate your inflatable kayak pump independently of a power source, it is best to choose a double-stroke pump, e.g. CORE Pump 2.0 XL

A pump with an integrated pressure gauge is recommended to ensure the correct air pressure. Too low or too high air pressure can cause damage to the boat. There are also pressure gauges as intermediate pieces for existing air pumps, e.g. the Blueborn SP 90

Is there a labeling requirement for inflatable boats?

This depends on the waters on which the inflatable boat is used. As a general rule, you should always find out what regulations apply on a waterway before setting off.

There is a labeling requirement for inflatable boats here:

On German inland waterways, there is a marking requirement for motor and muscle-powered vehicles. This means that inflatable boats with and without a motor must be labeled.

This is how you should label your inflatable boat:

An inflatable boat must be clearly labeled with the name of the boat in 10 cm letters on the outside. The owner’s name and address must be entered on the inside.

The inflatable boat must be illuminated in the dark:

If you are traveling on inland waterways in the dark, the inflatable boat requires lighting. A white all-round light and two sidelights must be fitted to the right and left of the inflatable boat.

How do you clean inflatable boats?

A cloth or soft sponge is best suited for cleaning. After using an inflatable boat on salt water, the boat should be completely rinsed with fresh water. Salt water makes the material porous over time. There are special inflatable boat cleaners and care oils on the market that can increase the longevity of the material.

How do you store inflatable boats?

Inflatable boats are best stored in a dry, cool and dark place, e.g. in a cellar or shed. Store the boat crease-free or slightly inflated. Cracks may appear in the material at kinks after some time. Under no circumstances should the boat be exposed to UV radiation for any length of time, otherwise the material will degrade over time.

How long do inflatable boats last?

The durability of inflatable boats depends heavily on the manufacturing quality, care and correct storage (see above). An average PVC inflatable boat has a life expectancy of around 10-15 years.

What is a Boston valve?

A Boston valve is a 2-way screw-in valve. To connect the pump hose, remove the top cap. A non-return valve prevents air from escaping when the hose is disconnected.

To allow the air to escape quickly from the inflatable boat, open the entire valve. If the screw caps are tightened too tightly, the sealing rings may be damaged.

How can you repair an inflatable boat?

If a PVC inflatable boat has a hole, it is easy to repair. After cleaning the patched area, apply the adhesive to the patch and press it into place for a few minutes. The inflatable boat is already tight again.

What are well-known inflatable boat brands and manufacturers?

The best-known and most popular inflatable boat brands include:

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Zeepter, Intex, Quicksilver, Bombard, Mercury, Sevylor, ArtSport, Bestway

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• Zeepter is a German manufacturer of inflatable fishing boats that specializes in high-quality inflatable fishing boats.
• Quicksilver, Bombard and Mercury are manufacturers that have made a name for themselves primarily in the field of rigid inflatable boats (RIBs).
• Intex, Sevylor, ArtSport and Bestway offer bathing boats and inflatable boats for beginners in particular.

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Specialist literature, sources & further links

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