Most who are familiar with boating have had some experience with inflatable boats. These are not kids toys but seaworthy stable craft capable of high speeds through all types of seas. The classic zodiac with an outboard serves as a run around and lif boat to many large vessels. The Coast Guard now use a rigid hull inflatable for many offshore rescues. I was hired a couple years ago to bring a 400 pound sail out to meet a sailing vessel about to depart on a record trans Atlantic crossing attempt. Running my boat through the 6' seas was not problem but how could I raft up to the much larger sail boat without damaging both hulls? The answer was simple the sail boat lowered its inflatable which rafted up with my boat. We then rolled the 400 pound cargo aboard the inflatable and off she went through a 6' chop like is was nothing. Inflatable boats have since earned a lot of respect from myself and other area Captains. Of course they come in a variety of sizes and styles. Some are great as a kids first boat others are worthy of being a primary offshore fishing vessel.

On this page you will find links to a variety of inflatable boat manufacturers and distributors. Including, Inflatable boats, Viking inflatable, sea eagles, quick silver, action marine, apex, inflatable boats, zodiac, ribcraft, and mako. Please enjoy the variety of inflatable vessels available and if you have any stories of photographs you would like to share they can be e-mailed to the address listed below.

Just about everyone who owns a cruising boat needs a dinghy, and inflatables have become the most popular choice. Modern inflatables carry large loads safely, and with a modest outboard they travel fast and keep their occupants safe and dry. Unfortunately, inflatables have a limited life span and can be difficult to repair. Until now, those wishing to repair their own boats were reduced to squinting at the labels wrapped around glue cans. This books tells you how to do it right. The author details simple maintenance procedures that can double an inflatable's life and includes step-by-step instructions for carrying out professional-level repairs and modifications. And isn't just for inflatable dinghy owners. All types of inflatables are covered, including sportboats, which have become increasingly popular for watersports--scuba diving, waterskiing, fishing--because they're safer, more comfortable, and more easily stowed than traditional hard-skin small boats. To realize the advantages of inflatable boats and to protect your investment, you must choose the correct book, equip it properly, and then learn how to use it and maintain it. Inflatable Boats is the only book dedicated to showing you how.