Capable Inflatable boat that doesn't require trailer??

[slinger101]

Hi there,

We are currently using an Aqua Marina 250SF inflatable boat with a Tohatsu 3.5hp motor as a dive boat. Unfortunately this is not a very capable platform for Sydney waters.

Can you think of any boat/motor combination that can handle rough seas, but is still compact and light enough to be transported in the boot of a small car?

The boat must be able to carry two divers with gear.

Looking forward to your advice.

Cheers!

 

[abnfrog]

avon with an infaltable keel plus a 3.5 merc with intrical gastank i use one all the time

 

[cmburch]

For near shore, it may be best to go with a 12' or larger Avon or Achilles with a transom that is rated for a minimum 25hp.

I have a little 10' Achilles with 15hp. It is marginal for 2 men with SCUBA gear. I have made it back to the docks slowly under power with 3 men SCUBA gear and the boat filled with water due to rough seas. Gas tank and gear floating.

 

[rjack321]

Your existing boat and motor are WAYYYY too small (but you figured that out). A 12ft Zodiac Futura airfloor with a 15hp would work for 2. For 3 divers get a 25hp. I wouldn't get anything less than ~12ft (~3.8m)

But no roll-up inflatable is going to handle rough seas "well". No RIB in that size range either actually, although it depends on what you consider rough.