The best accessories for semi-rigid boats
Used or not as annexes, semi-rigid boats shine with their versatility. We had already discussed in our article "Why buy a semi-rigid boat?" the qualities of these light and surprisingly efficient vessels, such as their high buoyancy, ease of driving and transport, durability, and price.
But if the model of a boat matters concerning the nature of the sea outings you will make, the equipment or accessories you choose are just as crucial.
In this article, Orca Retail advises you on all the best accessories and equipment to have to make the most of your inflatable boat's potential.
Fishing in a semi-rigid
Semi-rigid boats are well-suited for fishing activities. With a lower waterline than rigid-hulled boats, fishing enthusiasts are both closer to the action and enjoy more stability.
The first thing to plan for is, of course, the fishing rods! And for more comfort in use or to enjoy a bit of relaxation, investing in one or more rod holders (also known as racks) seems fundamental. There are many different models, built-in, self-installing, with or without protective caps (to prevent rust inside the rod holder), rotatable or not to change axis, etc. For a planned rod holder, budget between 15 to 60 euros for standard models.
Real fishermen won't forget to also invest in a lure or bait holder, to be fixed or suction cup system, to have their accessories within reach.
Depending on your fishing style, you can choose whether or not to purchase a trolling setup, ideal for mackerel fishing in particular, and if you want to enjoy the wind and some movement during your session!
A set of knives for scaling or even filleting can be interesting to keep your crew or budding cooks busy, allowing them to directly enjoy their catches (and discard unwanted parts at sea rather than in the trash!). For cooking, there are many options for kitchen accessories that you can take on your semi-rigid.
You can find stoves, planchas, BBQs, or even small kitchenettes to enjoy the freshly caught fish directly (not forgetting mini fridges or coolers to stay hydrated).
And to dine, some modular semi-rigids allow you to switch from a rear deck configuration to a set of seats + table, ideal for sharing a meal in a friendly atmosphere.
Naturally, we also advise you to invest in a cooler or any other container that can keep the fish. Since semi-rigid boats are once again close to the water, you are not safe from escape attempts if you simply place your catches in the boat!
For fishing trips that last, don't forget to protect yourself from the sun! Having a canopy mounted on your semi-rigid seems to be the best solution, otherwise, consider hats to avoid unpleasant surprises and sunstroke!
Last advice, and even if we have already planned a good range of accessories, try not to overload your inflatable boat with bulky equipment for your fishing trips to be able to move around easily, especially if you are many.
Relaxing
If your ambition is rather to enjoy the sun and the sea to tan, contemplate the horizon, and more generally relax, here are some essential accessories for your semi-rigid:
- Bathing platforms: usually located at the rear, the bathing platforms are modular spaces that fill the space between benches (using an adjustable table, for example) to offer a relaxation area somewhat similar to a tatami, capable of accommodating several people. Bathing platforms are perfect for sunbathing and napping. Also, plan for some cushions (traditional or inflatable) to complete the setup.
- Ladder: almost indispensable for the entry or exit of swimmers in the water, make sure to choose a model that will be easily usable by everyone (with enough height under the water, for example). Whether rope or rigid, telescopic, retractable, folding, or coming out of a compartment, the possibilities are vast.
- Shower: if you want to get rid of the salt after swimming, showers are a must! To be paired with a freshwater tank, there are shower kits at various prices, depending on the finishes, their discretion, length, etc.
- Marine toilet: for optimal comfort of the passengers and if the size of your semi-rigid allows it.
- A radio or speakers: nothing more pleasant than a bit of music to relax or party on a boat!
- Canopy, parasol, bimini: in short, something to properly protect you in case of bad weather or sunstorm.
- Marine tableware: unbreakable to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Doing Water Sports
Are you rather looking for thrills? No problem! With their very good acceleration capabilities and great maneuverability, semi-rigid boats are perfect for sports such as water skiing, wakeboarding, or any other accessory that can be towed (tube, banana). So what accessories should you plan for doing water sports in semi-rigids?
- Wakeboard, skis, tubes, bananas (or hot dogs), or other boards, of course.
- Tow rope with a handle (to hold with your hands) obviously, to attach yourself to the boat. Most ropes designed for water sports are floating, make sure this is the case.
- A ski ring / mooring system / hook / mast to secure the attachment of the rope.
- A rearview mirror: very important! Indeed, your semi-rigid boat may not be equipped with one by default, or it may not give you good enough visibility. It is essential to be able to keep an eye at all times on what is happening behind you for the safety of sports activities or people being towed.
- Safety equipment: life jackets, buoys, spare ropes, first aid kit for bad falls, etc.
- A pump (foot or electric) for equipment such as buoys, and some patches in case of snags or punctures.
For diving
Semi-rigid boats being closer to the water, they make ideal platforms for divers. Fins, masks, snorkels are obviously essential for snorkeling enthusiasts. We also recommend purchasing waterproof bags or pouches if you want to protect fragile items or, for example, take photos underwater.
Having a floating rope is always welcome, especially in configurations with current so that divers do not drift away from the boat.
If you prefer deep diving, you will of course need oxygen tanks with their regulator, but flashlights are also recommended in gloomy weather or after a few dozen meters of depth.
Harpoon guns will allow you to enjoy the pleasures of underwater hunting!
Finally, all the usual necessities for diver safety must also be planned (to call emergencies, for example).
In all weather:
Beyond all the accessories mentioned above, a number of other equipment or accessories for semi-rigid boats will be useful or even vital. Whether it is for simple comfort or safety, here is what you will need:
- Sea clothing (life jackets) and buoys
- Handrails: for larger models, to facilitate your movement on board.
- Marine fire extinguishers
- Bilge pumps to prevent taking on water.
- Flexible tanks
- GPS
- Flares
- Lights and safety lighting
- Cigarette lighter sockets to charge your phones or others (or portable batteries)
- Barometer
- Compass
- Binoculars
Extras:
There are a multitude of other accessories that allow you to customize your semi-rigid boat and the activities it allows you to do. Here are those that can make a difference:
- Solar panels or mini wind turbines to generate additional energy (+ batteries)
- Water purifiers
- Plumbing (sinks, marine toilets, etc.)
- Gangways (for easier boarding and disembarking)
- Televisions
- Sleeping arrangements
- Windshield wipers
- Fenders
- Flags and pennants
And there you have it, you now know everything about the equipment and accessories to plan for your outings at sea in a semi-rigid boat!
Are you passionate about boating and semi-rigid boats?
Discover our maintenance products for semi-rigid boats:
- Neoprene repair fabrics for tubes floats
- Inflatable boat cleaner
- Anti-mold product for inflatable boats
- Wax for inflatable boats
- Glue for inflatable boats
- Flexible tanks for fuels and water
- rubrails
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