Buy a two-seat PVC rowing boat: a complete guide to choosing

The decision to buy a two-seater rowing inflatable boat is often a turning point for those who like quiet fishing and relaxing on the water. polymer They allow you to transport a boat in the trunk of a car, and sometimes even in a backpack. The market today is saturated with offers, which creates difficulties for a beginner: how not to overpay for unnecessary options and not buy a "disposable" toy that will burst at the first contact with a snag?

The key factor here is the balance between weight-load The two-seat configuration implies that two people with gear can be in the cockpite, but it is important to consider that the load capacity declared by manufacturers is often the limit, not the working capacity. Experienced water engines recommend always leaving a margin of 20-30% of data-sheet figures so that the boards do not “walk” under the weight of passengers, ensuring the stability of the course even in light wind.

The rowing version, contrary to popular belief, does not mean that the design is primitive. quilted And you can use this to install a hard deck, which turns a soft tank into a full-fledged flat-bottomed vessel, and it's these parts, and the density of the reinforcement, that you should focus on if you're planning to operate the boat not only in calm, but also in the presence of a little excitement on the water.

Design features of two-seat models

The basis of any quality boat is the material from which it is made. reinforced PVC (polyvinyl chloride), where a grid of synthetic threads is laid between the layers of the polymer. The density of the fabric usually varies from 750 to 1100 g / sq.m. Lighter variants (640-700 g / sq.m.) are suitable exclusively for calm water and one person, while two-seater models require a margin of safety.

The most important element of the design is the type of bottom. low-pressure (BDND) or the possibility of installing floorboards (plywood or aluminum sheets). squirrel-bar This is a prerequisite, even if the engine is not yet planned, as they give the stern stiffness and allow you to install an electric motor or a low-power gasoline engine in the future.

⚠️ Warning: When buying, be sure to check for air-emitting valves. In hot weather, the pressure in the cylinders increases, and without the ability to quickly dump excess air, the boat can deform or get a seam rupture.

Comfort in a two-seater boat depends on the width of the cockpit. Narrow models (less than 120 cm) will make people sitting next to each other constantly touching each other, which is tedious for long crossings. The optimal width is considered to be from 130 to 140 cm, which allows you to freely place the gear and work comfortably with oars without touching the sides.

Criteria for selection: from load capacity to seams

When you come to a store or choose a model online, the first parameter to look at is the one you want to look at. loading capacityFor two people of average build (80-90 kg) plus equipment (about 30 kg) requires a buoyancy reserve of at least 220-250 kg. Ignoring this parameter will lead to the fact that the boat will sit too low, the sides will be overwhelmed by the wave, and rowing will become physically difficult due to increased water resistance.

The second critical point is the quality of the seams. Budget models use a "float" gluing method, which creates a stepping stone and a potentially weak spot. hot-welding Or stick it together with reinforcement tape, and visually, it should be smooth, without bubbles or glue, and if you can, just press it with your finger, so it doesn't peel off or crunch.

And the accessories, too, must be made of impact-resistant material, not fragile plastic that will swell when you first snatch. Metallic elements, such as the anchor-facing rim or safety end-shaped rims, must be corrosive, and the cheap metal will rust after the first season, leaving ugly leaks on board.

Overview of popular types of bottom and decking

The choice of floor type determines not only the rigidity of the structure, but also the speed of assembly of the boat on the shore. There are three main options, each of which has its advantages for different use scenarios. For fishing from the parking lot, where stability is important, hard decking is preferable, and for fast fishing trips “for an hour” – soft solutions.

Air Deck is the modern standard for light rowing boats, and it's a balloon with internal partitions that, when pumped, becomes rigid like plywood. weight down

It's a package, and it's a little bit easier to pack, because you don't have to carry heavy sheets of plywood, but it's easier to puncture the bottom with a sharp object than a hard floorboard.

Hard Floor, made of moisture-resistant plywood or aluminum alloy, provides a perfect level surface, and you can stand on the bottom with confidence, fishing in the throw, or install chairs, but there is a disadvantage: it takes longer to assemble, and transporting individual sheets requires care so as not to damage them and not to wet them.

Type of bottom	Weight (approximate)	Toughness	Difficulty of assembly
Inflatable (NPD)	Light.	Medium	Low.
Plywood plywood	Medium.	High.	High.
aluminum	Heavy.	Very high.	Medium
Slan (reiki)	Light.	Low.	Medium

The myth of the "impenetrable" day

There is a perception that you can't penetrate the bottom of an inflatable hole. It's not. Although modern materials are strong, a sharp stone, a sticking root, or careless handling of a knife when cutting fish can damage the camera. Always bring a remix.

Weight specifications and transportability

One of the main arguments for buying an inflatable boat is the ability to deliver it to the water without a trailer. Double models weigh between 18 and 35 kg depending on the configuration. If you plan to fish alone, it is critical that the weight of the bag does not exceed 20-22 kg, otherwise carrying equipment over rough terrain will turn into torture.

When choosing, consider the weight of not only the boat itself, but also the accompanying elements. Heavy wooden oars can add an extra 2-3 kg to the total weight, while composite or aluminum analogues are much lighter. transport-bag: dense fabric with backpack straps is preferable to a thin cover that will break on the first serious trip.

The dimensions of the packed boat also matter. If you have a small hatchback, a long bag (more than 100-110 cm) may not fit in the cabin. In such cases, it is worth considering models with shortened cylinders or the possibility of partial disassembly of the decking, if present.

⚠️ Warning: Do not try to shove a wet boat into a sealant for long-term storage. PVC must "breathe", otherwise mold will quickly infuse inside, which will destroy the reinforcing layer of tissue.

Package: What should be in the set

When you buy a boat, you often get a constructor that depends on the manufacturer. The basic kit usually includes the boat itself, a couple of oars, a pump and a refit. But the devil is in the details. For example, there are foot pumps (two-chamber) and hand pumps. foot-pump It is preferable, as it allows the boat to be pumped faster and without undue effort.

Oars are a separate topic. Wooden oars with plastic blades are classics, but they are heavy and can absorb water. Aluminum collapsible oars are lighter and more compact, but require assembly. Make sure you have a package. jolly-holder They will be able to fit your sleeves, or they will not be able to pull you off.

Additional accessories such as anchor rum, fishing rod holders or gear bags often go as an option. Make sure you can upgrade the boat in the future or the design of the boards does not include them.

Caring for PVC boat and extending the service life

The life of a high-quality PVC boat is 10-15 years, but only with proper care. The main enemy of the material is ultraviolet and dirt. After every fishing, especially if the water was muddy or salty, the boat must be rinsed with fresh water and wiped with a soft sponge. The remaining dirt acts as an abrasive, gradually erasing the protective layer.

Store the product should be spread out, at a temperature of +5 to +25 degrees Celsius. You can not leave the boat in the cold (PVC becomes brittle) or in direct sunlight indoors (the steam effect). dry - moisture inside the folds will lead to the appearance of a fungus, which is very difficult to remove.

Check the pressure in the cylinders with a pressure gauge regularly. A pumped boat in the sun can burst, and a poorly pumped boat will wear out faster on the bends and will be worse to keep its course. The optimal pressure is usually 0.2-0.25 atmospheres (indicated in the passport).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I install the engine on a PVC rowing boat?

Yes, if the design provides for the presence of transom bars. Most two-seater models can be installed electric motor or gasoline engine with a capacity of up to 3-5 hp. It is important not to exceed the recommended power, so as not to damage the transom.

What repairs can be done on your own?

At home, it is possible to seal small punctures and cuts (up to 3-5 cm) with a remix that is included in the supply. To do this, you need to degrease the surface, apply glue (usually polyurethane), press the patch and let dry under the load. Serious damage to the valves or seams is better entrusted to professionals.

How many people can comfortably fit in a two-seater boat?

Comfortable, two people of average build. If they are adult men of large build or plan to fish with a lot of gear, it is better to consider a three-seater model, since a two-seater will be cramped and safety will decrease.

Do I need to register such a boat in the GIMS?

Under current Russian law, inflatable boats with a carrying capacity of less than 225 kg are not subject to mandatory registration, even if they are equipped with a motor of less than 8 hp (8 kW).