Buying an inflatable dinghy: rediscovering adventure and utility

Inflatable tenders have a special place in the nautical world. They often evoke memories of childhood, of days spent on the beach or by the lake, exploring the calm waters and having impromptu adventures. For many, these small inflatable boats are synonymous with freedom, fun and discovery.

However, inflatable annexes are not simply objects of nostalgia. Their practicality in a variety of situations makes them indispensable companions for outdoor enthusiasts and keen sailors.

In this article, Orca Retail explores why buying an inflatable dinghy can enrich your experience on the water, and tells you all about their pros and cons.

Safety: what are the optimum conditions for using an inflatable dinghy?

To ensure your safety at sea, it is crucial to observe certain optimal conditions when using an inflatable dinghy. The sea must be calm, with waves not exceeding 50 cm. A moderate wind (Beaufort force 2 to 3) is acceptable, but it is important to remain cautious and not venture too far from shore in strong winds.

In fact, it is generally recommended not to go more than 300 metres from the shore in an inflatable dinghy. If the weather changes, it's important to be able to get back to the coast quickly.

Whatever the case, always be equipped with a lifejacket for each person on board, a paddle, an anchor and an inflation pump.

Practical usefulness: what activities can you do with an inflatable dinghy? Ideas for outings.

One of the most attractive features of inflatable tenders is their polyvalence.

Thanks to their lightweight and easily transportable design, inflatable tenders can be rapidly deployed and used in places where rigid boats cannot access. Here are a few examples of activities and outings that can be carried out in an inflatable dinghy:

• Coastal excursions: Set off to discover France's beautiful coastlines using your inflatable dinghy to explore hidden coves, sea caves and secluded beaches, while following the safety guidelines outlined in this article.
• Tranquil fishing: Embark with your fishing gear and enjoy the tranquillity of secluded lakes or peaceful rivers for a relaxing day's fishing. Inflatable dinghies offer the discretion needed to approach the most promising fishing grounds without spooking the fish.
• Family walk and picnic on the water: Bring a packed lunch and sail to a secluded cove for a peaceful picnic by the water. Children will love this fun experience.
• Exploring the canals: In France, many picturesque canals offer navigable routes perfect for inflatable tenders. Cruise the canals of Burgundy, the Midi or the Marais Poitevin for a unique experience along the water.
• Diving and wildlife observation: Use your inflatable dinghy as an observation platform to discover the diversity of aquatic wildlife. You may be lucky enough to spot migratory birds, turtles and even dolphins in the coastal waters.

To make the most of these activities, here are some places in France suitable for an inflatable dinghy:

• Les Calanques de Marseille: Sail in crystal-clear waters and discover hidden beaches accessible only by boat.
• Lake Annecy: Enjoy the turquoise waters of Lake Annecy for a peaceful day's fishing or a family stroll along its picturesque shores.
• The islands of Hyères: Sail around the islands of Hyères, including Porquerolles, Port-Cros and Ile du Levant, to discover secluded coves and unspoilt seabeds.
• The Canal du Midi: Soak up the peaceful atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
• The Bay of the Somme: Observe the seals and migratory birds that populate this exceptional nature reserve.

The possibilities offered by inflatable tenders are many, making them an ideal choice for families, fishermen, and water sports enthusiasts. Their ability to be stored in a compact bag also makes them perfect for camping trips or motorhome excursions.

Advantages of inflatable tenders 

Polyvalence and convenience

Compared to traditional fibreglass or aluminium boats, inflatable tenders offer an unparalleled level of convenience. Their light weight makes them easy to transport and handle, even for a single person. What's more, once deflated, they take up very little space, making them easy to store in a garage, car boot or on a main boat.

This means you can easily carry them with you on camping trips, boat trips or beach holidays, without having to worry about limited space.

In addition, their ability to be used in shallow waters or restricted areas makes them perfect for exploring places inaccessible to larger vessels.

Safety and reliability

Don't let their apparent fragility fool you: inflatable tender technology has evolved considerably over the years, making them safer and more reliable than ever. The materials used, such as reinforced PVC or hypalon (a material dear to Orca Retail!), offer exceptional durability, while improved designs ensure optimum stability and floatability on the water.

In addition, many inflatable tenders are now equipped with advanced safety features, such as non-return valves to prevent air leaks and safety handles to make boarding and disembarking easier. 

Price

Inflatable tenders finally have the great advantage of being very affordable, with prices ranging from €200 to €3000 depending on their size and capacity. This makes them an attractive choice for water sports enthusiasts on a budget. However, their lifespan, generally between 5 and 10 years, is less than that of rigid and semi-rigid appendages.

By way of comparison, rigid appendages  cost between €2,000 and €20,000, for lifespans of up to 20 years. As for the semi-rigid brackets, they range in price from €1,000 to €12,000 for a lifespan of between 10 and 15 years.

Exemples :

• 2 seater inflatable annex: Intex Mariner 300 (250€) vs Zodiac Cadet 200 Aero (450€)
• 4 seater rigid annex: Armor Aviron 400 (2500€) vs Bombard Explorer 420 (4000€)
• 4-seater semi-rigid dinghy: AB Inflatables AB 10AL (3000€) vs Zodiac Futura 4.2 (5500€)

Disadvantages of inflatable tenders

Air pressure management

Maintaining adequate air pressure is crucial to the performance and safety of an inflatable tender. Regular inflation is required, which can be restrictive, especially if the tender is used daily. The risk of leakage is always present, potentially compromising the boat's stability and causing dangerous situations.

Manoeuvrability and speed

Inflatable tenders, because of their flexible structure, are generally less manoeuvrable than rigid tenders, especially in rough sea conditions. They can be sensitive to wind and waves, which can make navigation more difficult and less precise.

While it is possible to fit an engine to an inflatable dinghy and not have to rely solely on paddles, it should be considered that their sailing speed is often limited, which can influence journey time and the ability to reach a destination quickly.

Furthermore, don't forget that if the engine power of your inflatable dinghy exceeds 4.5 kilowatts (around 6 horsepower), you'll need a boat licence to use it.

Confort

Comfort is often a weak point in inflatable tenders. They generally offer less space on board than rigid tenders, and the seats can be less comfortable, especially for extended use. The noise generated by the hull rubbing against the water can also be a source of discomfort for passengers.

Tips for choosing and maintaining an inflatable dinghy

If you're considering buying an inflatable dinghy, it's important to choose the right model for your specific needs.

Be sure to consider factors such as load capacity, size, construction and safety features. And don't forget to consult user reviews and expert recommendations to help you make your choice.

Once you have your inflatable dinghy, it's essential to maintain it well to prolong its life. This includes regular rinsing with fresh water to remove salt and residue, storage in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight, and regular inspection of valves and seams for signs of wear. In the event of punctures, our Hypalon fabrics will be your strong allies in giving your inflatable dinghy a second lease of life. Discover them in our online shop!

Conclusion

In conclusion, buying an inflatable dinghy is much more than just a return to childhood. It's a sensible investment in a versatile, practical and safe boating experience that will help you create lasting memories and enjoy your passion for the water to the full.