Determine your purpose

First of all, you need to think about what you will primarily use your inflatable boat for. Is it for fishing, water sports, transportation or just relaxing on the water? Your needs will determine both size, engine and functionality. 

Fishing: If you plan to use the inflatable boat for fishing, choose a model with stability and sufficient space for equipment. A boat with good space and easy access to fishing gear is ideal. 

Water sports: For activities like wakeboarding or water skiing, you should choose a rubber boat that is strong enough to tow equipment while providing a stable platform. 

Transportation: If you will be using your inflatable boat for transportation, such as reaching remote locations on a body of water, choose a model that is sturdy and easy to maneuver.

Choose the right size

Inflatable boats come in many sizes – from small models for one person to large boats that can accommodate several. The size of your inflatable boat depends on how many people you want to be able to take with you and what equipment you need to transport. 

1-2 people: If you are alone or with a friend, you can choose a smaller inflatable boat that is easy to transport and store. 

3 or more people: For families or groups looking to spend time on the water, a larger model will be better as it offers more space and comfort. 

If you are going to use the inflatable as a tender for a sailboat, make sure it is suitable for the size and capacity of your boat. The general guideline is that your inflatable should be a suitable complement to your sailboat in terms of length and weight. If you have a small sailboat of 6-8 meters, a 2-3 meter inflatable will be ideal. For larger sailboats of 10 meters or more, a 3-4 meter inflatable can provide more space and stability. 

• Sailboat under 8 meters: A 2-2.5 meter rubber boat. 

• Sailboat 8-12 meters: A 2.5-3.5 meter inflatable boat. 

• Sailboat over 12 meters: A 3.5-4 meter inflatable boat. 

Also think about whether you need extra space for equipment such as fishing gear, blankets or luggage.

Material choice: PVC or Hypalon?

Inflatable boats are generally made of either PVC (polyvinyl chloride) or Hypalon, both of which have their advantages. 

PVC: PVC is generally lighter and cheaper, making it ideal for recreational use. It is easy to transport and requires minimal maintenance, but it is not as durable as Hypalon and may be less resistant to damage from UV rays and chemicals. 

Read more about PVC vs. Hypalon here  

Hypalon: Hypalon boats are more durable and resistant to the sun's UV rays and harsh environments. They are ideal for boats that will be used frequently or for those that need to withstand harsher conditions. 

All boats from AB Inflatables are made of Hypalon, at the same time they are also very light. For example, they weigh Lammina UL 9 only 38 kg. [Read more about the boat here.] 

Fixed or inflatable bottom?

The choice between a solid or inflatable bottom affects both stability and comfort. It also has implications for transport, sailing characteristics and durability. 

Inflatable bottom: Lightweight and easy to pack, making it ideal for transport and storage in small spaces. It is also gentler on decks if used as a tender. However, an inflatable bottom can be less stable, especially in waves or at high speed. 

Fixed bottom: Typically made of aluminum or fiberglass, which provides increased stability and better sailing characteristics. A solid bottom improves the boat's performance in the water, especially at higher speeds. Rigid bottom inflatables also have less drag when towed behind a sailboat. AB Inflatables boats have a V-bottom, which ensures that the boat sails more stably with a motor. However, a solid bottom requires more storage space, can be heavier to transport, and is often more expensive than a model with an inflatable bottom. 

When choosing between a solid or inflatable bottom, you should consider how often you will transport the boat, how you plan to use it, and how much space you have for storage. 

Choose the right engine

Once you have chosen an inflatable boat, it is time to choose the right motor. The size of the motor depends on both the size and weight of your inflatable boat and what you will be using it for. 

Light engines: If you will only use the boat for relaxation or fishing on calm waters, a small motor of 1.5-5 hp may be sufficient. 

Larger engines: If you plan to use your inflatable boat for water sports or transportation, you may need a motor of 10-15 hp or more, depending on the size and load of the boat. 

Also think about the engine type (petrol or electric) and which type of fuel is most convenient for you.

Budget

Prices for inflatable boats vary greatly depending on size, material and additional features. Set a realistic budget and choose an inflatable boat that fits within it, while also making sure it meets your needs. Remember that an inflatable boat is a long-term investment, so it may be worth spending a little extra on a high-quality model. 

Safety and accessories

When choosing your inflatable boat, it is also important to consider safety and accessories. Make sure the boat has the necessary safety features, such as safety lines. Remember the legal life jackets, and consider purchasing additional equipment such as pumps and repair kits, if it is not included in the purchase.