Practical Advice on Using Inflatable Boats
by Jeff Coulson
The lightweight inflatable boat has become a household item today for many reasons. Due to its size and weight inflatable boats are portable and they do not require a large storage area. When deflated it can be easily stored in a bag and kept in a corner or even in the boot of your car until next use. Due to its low cost and many other advantages the demand for inflatable boats has risen. It is an ideal boat for fishing, leisure rides and water sports activities such as kayaking and white water rafting. These boats are also commonly used today as dive boats, life rafts, for military purposes and as rescue crafts.
Inflatable boats are made out of reinforced fabric which will not be damaged by stones or sticks. Although the boat is lightweight it is strong enough to carry at least 6 adults without any risk. The light weight of the boat is another reason for its low fuel consumption. Little power is needed to start the boat therefore only a small amount of fuel will be needed. It has two large buoyancy tubes on either side which contain pressurised gas. With the help of these tubes the inflatable boat can stay stable on water without toppling over.
Inflatable boats are easy to purchase because of their low price. Maintaining the boat won’t be an issue since spares are easily available at stores. Also regular servicing is a must since it will definitely lengthen the lifespan of your boat. However there are few important things to know before you put the boat into water.
It is advisable to check the weather conditions always to know about local current and wind conditions. It is a good practice to tell somebody the time you plan to return. If you’re taking any passengers, they should know about the basic operations of the boat. It is also better if you accompany someone else who knows how to man the boat. Check the inflation pressure levels according to the manual. Tighten all the clamps in the motor before you set off and inspect all the valve caps. Engine clamps should be checked even after you start the engine. It is very important that the safety stop switch is working. Never leave without topping the fuel and always start your trip with a full tank and take a spare can of fuel along with you.
When you are having passengers make sure to carry personal floating devices for each person, tools, paddles, oars and a foot pump and carry the boating license always. The passengers should be seated on the wooden seat so that there is proper balance. Once you’re on your way be watchful to man the boat smoothly avoiding any sudden jerks.
After returning from your trip, follow the guidelines in the manual to deflate the air properly. Open all the valves and let the air go out slowly. Do not attempt to fold it while the air is still remaining. Make sure you attend to any small repair immediately before it takes too long in order to avoid major damage. Proper care and regular servicing of your inflatable boat will indeed save lot of money and time.
Jeff Coulson sent the useful information on Inflatable Boats. A detailed description on Inflatable Boats is found here for further reading.
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