Best Inflatable catamarans are practical and cost efficient boats for the everyday occasional day sailor. The great and grand expanse of wide and wild blue oceans, seas and lakes have held humankind captivated for centuries.
Just standing on a sandy shore, watching the sea, there is something so very freeing about feeling the embrace of the wind, watching the sway of the vessels as they pass by, and the splash of water as it gently sprays across your face. Standing there, enjoying the scene, dreaming of the day you yourself can join them.
Exploration is in our blood, and the waters of the world not only beckoned us, but became our gateways to new cultures and continents. Indeed, the growth of civilization is partly due to sailing vessels of old, as they transported goods from one country to another. This love and respect for our waters has never left us. Today, people have built entire industries around recreational water sports.
Best Inflatable Catamaran Comparison
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From yachting to kayaking, people of all walks of life take part in the joys and freedoms of boating. The compact and convenient inflatable catamaran is not only an inexpensive boat for the casual day sailor, but one that is highly enjoyable and functional as well.
The agile and quick catamaran is quite different from a standard sailboat. Standard sailboats have one hull, or mono hull. Whereas the catamaran has two hulls, with the mast in the center. The catamaran may have hard hulls or inflatable hulls, which makes them extremely stable and balanced, and they do not heel over like a traditional mono hull sailboat. The twin hulls of the catamaran also make it able to sail over shallow waters, something that the traditional sailboat cannot do.
How to Select the Best Inflatable Catamaran for You
So, you’re off and running to go out and purchase one of these amazingly fun, stable and quick inflatable boats. Before you start, may I suggest that some thought and consideration be undertaken during your search for that one best inflatable catamaran so it will fulfill your particular needs. When you are in the market to choose the best inflatable catamaran you can find, it’s important to consider the size and weight capacity you will need in order to fit the passengers and gear required.
Next, it’s time to engage in researching various inflatable catamaran reviews, selecting models that you favor and comparing the specifications of each one. The purpose you have for your catamaran is also extremely important. For example, will you be using your boat to motor, row or sail? Many catamaran models have extras, such as sails and motors, that you may purchase separately that are made for that particular model. For example, if you think you will prefer to troll, make sure that your inflatable catamaran comes with a motor mount. Motors will have to be purchased separately, of course.
Taking very good care of your inflatable catamaran after purchase is equally important. Remember to thoroughly read through the instruction booklet that came with your boat. For instance, it’s never a good idea to leave an inflatable boat in the water for extended periods of time, as the hull can fall victim to barnacles and algae, with mildew occurring on the interior. It’s paying close attention to these little things that will extend the life of your new inflatable catamaran.
Importance of Inflatable Catamaran Reviews
Reading and discussing inflatable catamaran reviews are an important part of the research process in order to find the best inflatable catamaran. The overall shopping experience for your purchase of your inflatable catamaran will benefit greatly from comparing and contrasting various models. Below you will find five of the best inflatable boats on the market. All boats are chosen based on their versatility, function and durability.
Colorado XT Inflatable Catamaran Review
The boat we are going to take a look at in our inflatable catamaran review, is the 9 foot, 400 pound capacity Colorado XT. This boat is a one person pontoon boat from Classic Accessories that is compact to transport and easy to assemble . This craft is constructed with high quality materials and built to provide its owner with many years of dedicated service.
When your boat is delivered, you’ll find that the Colorado XT weighs in at 68 pounds, assembles with ease to a 108 x 56 x 26 inch size, and has a class 1 river rating. River rating is important to pay attention to. I mean, you don’t want to purchase this catamaran for use on windy, choppy water. The class 1 river rating means it’s perfect for lakes, rivers and ocean bays, but not suitable for aggressive rushes of water as one would find on the rapids.
The Colorado XT has plenty of room to store some gear. Indeed, storage is a breeze with the Colorado XT as side pockets can be removed and combined in order to create a bag for toting gear or used as storage. This pontoon has a total of 20 pockets to store your essentials, which are removable, as well as a rod holder that can be mounted in six different positions. The rear of the pontoon also has a storage bin or rack made of wire.
The Colorado XT comes with transport wheel designed to help you cart your boat up banks and through trails. The wheel is useful, but depending on the trails you are using, may prove to be a bit unwieldy at times. This model has a padded, stationary plastic seat, backrest and foot rests that are all adjustable to the users liking, as well as two drink holders and non-corroding brass oar locks. Be mindful that it is a stationary seat, and not a swivel seat, as some users prefer a swivel to a stationary.
- Agile and quick.
- Plenty of Storage.
- Durable.
- Great beginner boat.
- Anchor bag does not function well.
- No swivel seat.
The Colorado XT has a few more beneficial features which include an anchor bag, to prevent drifting, a two position trolling motor mount that can alter position for righties and lefties. This is a very durable pontoon with a powder-coated steel tube frame and PVC based pontoons, with tough nylon on top, which resists abrasion. The Colorado XT also meets the safety requirements of the ABYC, and has a 2-year limited warranty. The Colorado XT is available in gray/sage.
Sea Eagle 435 Inflatable Catamaran, Kayak with Deluxe Package
For you folks out there looking for the one of the best inflatable catamarans that have both speed and comfort, in our inflatable catamaran reviews, then the Sea Eagle 435 PaddleSki should do you quite nicely. This nifty sea worthy vessel, often selected by many as the best inflatable catamaran, has the added benefit of needing very little assembly.
Basically it’s a one, two, three operation: Open the box, unfold and inflate. According to users of this boat, the Inflation time for the Sea Eagle is only about seven minutes, give and take a few, and that’s not bad. Deflated the Sea Eagle measures a cool 38 x 19 x 10 inches, and weighs only 41 pounds, so this is not only lightweight, but quite compact as well. This compact nature of the Sea Eagle 435 PaddleSki, means not having to spend extra cash on the installation of a roof rack or purchase of a trailer.
This Sea Eagle model is well-balanced and stable, and comfortably handles the weight of two adults with a combined weight carrying capacity of 650 pounds. The material used is 1000 reinforced high pressure denier, resistant to sun and saltwater, with quadruple overlap seams. The tunnel hull is constructed of three aluminum yokes that stabilize the frame and footrests. The Deluxe Package comes with the boat, two double ended paddles, two inflatable seats, repair kit, foot pump, hull carry bag, and a 3 year warranty.
The Sea Eagle 435 PaddleSki is NMMA certified, easily meeting their safety standards. The Sea Eagle 435 PaddleSki is also very versatile as you can paddle, motor, and sail. This versatility of function is due to its catamaran kayak design, where you can paddle like a kayaker, sail like a catamaran, or motor like a motorboat.
- Durable.
- Lightweight.
- Affordable.
- Easy and fast to inflate and assemble.
- Rear seat too close to motor mount.
The two tubes are 14 inches in diameter, offering a well-balanced and smooth slice through the water which gives you an exciting, pleasant and fast ride. For those who want to use the motor option, a side motor mount is available to purchase separately. If you love kayaking, but find them unstable and hard to haul around, then the inflatable Sea Eagle 435 PaddleSki can work for you. The interior of the Sea Eagle is 12′ x 6″ x 16″.
Solstice OutCat Inflatable Catamaran Review
For the water sport enthusiast who prefers to spend a comfortable, quiet and restful time on the water, the Solstice OutCat Catamaran is just the boat for you. Taking a look at the Solstice OutCat Catamaran, we can see it’s a sturdy, lightweight one person boat. Fully assembled the Outcat reaches a size of 9 feet long, and a weight of 47 pounds. For my money, if you enjoy solitude on the water, simply enjoying the day in a relaxed way, this is the boat for you.
The OutCat also wins fans over due to it being highly portable. Compact and convenient, the Solstice OutCat rolls up with ease, fits into a carry bag, which can then be easily transported to and from the camping site. This is a huge plus for those of you who are not into assembling frames, but just want to inflate and go.
The Solstice OutCat also comes with its own water-resistant storage bag and air pressure gauge. The OutCat is designed as a catamaran, meaning that it has two hulls which give the boat stability and balance as you row or motor. According to users, this boat is very easy to inflate and uses Boston and compression valves. The boat comes with an integrated kayak seat which is elevated for support and comfort, and is said to keep the boater very comfortable for those long hours on the spent relaxing on the water.
There is also a water-resistant storage bag that is integrated in the catamaran, that is designed to keep your gear safe, secure and free from water damage. Swivel oar lock makes sure that your oars stay in place while you forward row. The OutCat comes with a rigid transom if one is inclined to purchase a trolling motor separately.
- Radio Frequency (RF) welded seams.
- Rigid transom for motors.
- Durable 1000 denier 3 ply PVC coated fabric.
- Very Light on the water.
- Can turn around on you on windy days.
This is a high quality inflatable fishing boat, constructed with hardy PVC coated 1000 denier 3 ply fabric, with RF (radio frequency) welded seams. For those of you who have never heard of RF seams, here is some basic information.
RF seams offer the product shape and flexibility, and are highly tear resistant. RF welded seams create permanent watertight and airtight seals, and also make the seam stronger, which will aid in extending the life of your OutCat. The boat comes with a 12 month limited warranty. Dimensions: 108″ x 60″.
Sea Eagle 12-Foot 4-Inch Inflatable Catamaran Review
If you’ve gotten this far in the inflatable catamaran review list, and know you really think that one of the framed catamarans is for you, but feel that you are ‘all thumbs’ with assembling anything, then the Sea Eagle FoldCat is one boat you should seriously consider. This is because the Sea Eagle FoldCat boasts the claim to go from your car trunk, to inflatable boat in just five minutes, using a pump.
How does the FoldCat do this you ask? Well, it accomplishes this feat by a design that incorporates a folding frame design. The assembly of the patent pending folding frame takes about only five minutes, and is so extremely simple, that even those of you that dread assembling the boat, will find this a walk in the park. In fact, in our inflatable catamaran reviews, it’s this ease of assembly and break down alone have some calling it the best inflatable catamaran out there.
The FoldCat is tough and strong, with a weight-bearing capacity of 650 pounds, seating two adults. Another benefit of the FoldCat, is its full floor, which allows you to carry more gear for your recreational water sport needs. The 16 inch, buoyant, hydrodynamic pontoons are composed of 1000 denier reinforced material with quadruple overlap seams.
Being an inflatable boat, it is very light and therefore has very little drag, so will respond well with an outboard motor, either an electric tolling motor or a small gas outboard, up to 3 HP will do.
- Folding frame.
- Easy Assembly.
- Great customer service.
- Molded end caps may leak.
The Sea Eagle FoldCat accommodates two passengers comfortably, both on 360 degree swivel seats. This compact and convenient boat comes with two nylon carry bags which make transport a breeze, as well as a repair kit, built-in motor mount, 8 foot rowing oars. The Sea Eagle FoldCat comes with a 3 year warranty. Exterior size is 12′.4″ x 4′.6″. Deflated size: 56″ x 21″ x 10″.
Venture Outdoors VOLight 8T Inflatable Catamaran
The final boat on our inflatable catamaran review list, is the VOLight by Venture Outdoors. The Venture Outdoors VOLight 8T Inflatable Pontoon Boat is a lightweight catamaran, coming in at just 49 pounds at 8 feet.
Fans of the VOLight say that it is quite agile and easy to maneuver through the water, and that is a high point with them. However, some users have stated that this catamaran is only suitable for calm waters as if you push it for speed, the chance of overturning is a real one.
This is a sweet little catamaran that is also very durable. The Venture Outdoors has tough and hardy PVC bladders that sport Halkey Roberts valves. Halkey Roberts is a well-respected manufacturer of valves, and has been in the valve business since 1941.
The bladders for the VOLight can be interchanged with the patented DuraBladder flotation system, while still keeping the same pontoon skins. On the rear of the Venture Outdoors you’ll find a large cargo rack.
- Lightweight.
- Durable.
- Easily
- Maneuverable.
- Can overturn if pushed too fast.
This cargo rack will accept the VO 8 Transport Kit, which is sold separately. This Transport kit assists you in wheeling the boat to and from the water. The frame is constructed of a strong, lightweight powder coated aluminum alloy. The Venture comes with a pair of 72 inch aluminum shaft oars, and cushioned folding seat. Dimensions: 96 x 58 x 27 inches.
Sea Eagle 435 Paddle Ski Inflatable Catamaran
The winner of our inflatable catamaran review is the Sea Eagle 435 PaddleSki Infaltable Catamaran. This is our first choice for the absolute best inflatable catamaran in the review. This lightweight boat offers boaters stability, balance and convenience in one nice package. Users state that they can inflate their boat in under 8 minutes, and pop the seats on in another few minutes. The Sea Eagle 435 PaddleSki is a catamaran that you can enjoy on rivers, lakes, and the sea.
Sea Eagle is a company that comes highly recommended and has won that reputation based on their high quality construction and choice of durable materials used on their designs. The Sea Eagle PaddleSki is for those who want to enjoy their time on the water and want a boat that is compact, convenient and will last the test of time.
The Sea Eagle 435 is a superb choice for people who enjoy long camping trips and who intend to do a lot of paddling in lakes and rivers. This inflatable catamaran is specially designed to keep drag to a minimum for a fast ride as it’s hull keeps above water, giving you a smooth, stable boating experience. If you would like to go just a wee bit faster, you can consider purchasing a motor for your Sea Eagle 435.
Remember to make sure that when you purchase your motor, to make sure it aligns with the specs for the Sea Eagle 435. The versatile Sea Eagle 435 PaddleSki, the best inflatable catamaran for those who truly crave a taste of the recreational water sport world.
The Best Inflatable Catamaran for the Least Cost is…
Colorado XT Inflatable Catamaran by Classic Accessories
After gong over our inflatable catamaran reviews, we have chosen to give honors for the most inexpensive, best inflatable catamaran go to the Colorado XT by Classic Accessories. The initial assembly of this catamaran is simple when following the instruction guide, and break down is just as quick and efficient.
As previously stated, the Colorado XT has a class 1 river rating which means it’s just perfect for the more stable water areas. This economical boat is also very easy to control, even under gentle winds.
For those of you who are fond of sailing or motoring mountain lakes, the wheel allows ease of transport up and down steep banks and shady mountain trails. The Colorado XT is the best inflatable catamaran for those of you out there who want to join in the fun of recreational water sports, but at the least possible cost.
In Conclusion
Well, there you have it. I hope our inflatable catamaran reviews set you on the proper path of finding the best inflatable catamaran for you. The joy of recreational water sports is made very available to people of most walks of life via the inflatable catamaran.
These boats are inexpensive, require no monthly rent to store, nor a trailer to cart them to and from the water source, you just have to deflate them, and pack them away in your trunk and drive off. The best inflatable catamaran requires no major maintenance, just follow the simple care instructions that come with the boat when it arrives.
All in all the inflatable catamaran is an excellent choice for the occasional day sailor or the man or woman who is an avid fan of the water.
The post Best Inflatable Catamaran 2017 | Top 5 Product Reviews appeared first on The Sweet Water Blog.
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