Finding a reliable fishing boat or family vacation on the water often leads to a model. Azimuth 350 NDLDIt's a classic medium-sized inflatable vessel that combines affordable cost with proven design. Aquatic motors value this model for its versatility: it's suitable for both relaxing on lakes and for reaching the middle wave in the bays.
abbreviation NDMA It stands for "inflatable floor," which is a key difference between this version and the hard floorboard version, which provides maximum comfort while moving along the bottom of the boat and excellent seaworthiness. Azimuth 350 There are some features of operation that you need to know before buying.
In this article, we will analyze the technical specifications, analyze the behavior of the boat on the water and answer the most frequent questions of owners. Understanding the nuances of the design will help you make an informed decision and avoid typical errors in operation.
Design features and materials
The basis of reliability Azimuth 350 This material is highly resistant to mechanical damage, ultraviolet light and temperature changes. The density of the fabric is usually about 850-900 g / sq.m., which is the standard for boats of this size. seamlessnessThis is achieved by using two-component glue and high-quality gluing.
The high pressure inflatable floor (High Pressure) consists of many vertical threads connecting the upper and lower planes of the cylinders. When pumped to the working pressure (usually 0.2-0.25 atm), the bottom becomes rigid like plywood, but retains the cushioning properties, which allows you to comfortably move through the cockpit even in full growth without fear of damaging the material.
⚠️ Attention: Never leave a pumped boat in direct sunlight in hot weather unattended. The air pressure inside the cylinders rises faster than you notice an overload, which can cause the seams to rupture.
The boats are equipped with a beam around the perimeter, which greatly simplifies mooring and protects the sides from abrasion on the berth or the side of another vessel. anchor And a leer arc for anchoring, which is critical for fishing in windy weather.
Use a pressure gauge with a scale in atmospheres (Atm) or bars (Bar) rather than in PSI to avoid confusion and pumping cylinders.
Dimension, weight and load capacity
Model range Azimuth 350 The cockpit can vary slightly depending on the year of manufacture, but the basic parameters remain stable: the length is 350 cm, which is the optimal size for transporting in the trunk of a passenger car with folded seats, the width of the cockpit allows two or three adult passengers with the necessary equipment to comfortably accommodate.
The weight of the kit is one of the deciding factors when choosing: the basic weight of the boat is about 50-55 kg. This is enough for carrying alone over long distances, so having a second person to launch or use a wheelchair trolley becomes a necessity.
The transom part is reinforced with an additional moisture-resistant plywood lining, which allows for motors up to 15-18 hp (although the passport often limits 10-12 hp for safety). transom plates (if provided by the design) or the possibility of their installation significantly improve the output for planing.
Installation and interior equipment
Standard delivery kit Azimuth 350 NDLD The seats usually include the boat itself, two inflatable seats (banks), a bag-pack, a remix and a passport. However, the equipment can vary depending on the dealer. The seats are designed as inflatable cushions with a rigid insert on top, which provides comfort, but requires caution when used with piercing objects.
Inside the cockpit are rod holders and liners for attaching equipment. The fully inflatable floor is devoid of rigid elements that could damage the equipment or create discomfort when lying down. For fishing, this is one of the most convenient options, since you can easily change position by crawling from side to side.
An important element is the availability air-valveThey allow you to quickly relieve excess pressure when changing ambient temperature or before pumping to operating values, the quality of valve fittings directly affects the speed of assembly and disassembly of the boat.
☑️ Checking the completeness when buying
Driving and handling
On the water. Azimuth 350 It's predictable and stable. Inflatable boards are great at quenching the wave, making the swing less noticeable than hard bottoms. It's good at keeping the course, especially when you put the motor at the recommended power limit. The long aft part is good at planing.
When moving against the wave, the boat shows good germination on the ridge. However, it should be remembered that the inflatable floor has slightly more resistance to water than a rigid V-shaped body, which can slightly reduce the maximum speed. To compensate for this effect, it is recommended to correctly distribute the weight of passengers and cargo.
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum length | 350 cm | Full length. |
| maximum width | 165-170 cm | Depends on the pressure. |
| Diameter of the cylinder | 45-48 cm | Height of board |
| Passenger capacity | 3 people. | By load capacity |
| Engine power | 15 hp. | Recommended |
Management It's addictive to high speeds, and the soft sides can make the boat scour a little when it's turning the steering wheel, and experienced water-engineers advise you not to make abrupt movements with the tiller on the plane to avoid losing course or even turning when you're at a high speed and rolling steeply.
Assembly, preparation for operation and storage
Preparation process Azimuth 350 NDLD It takes an average of 15-20 minutes to descend into the water using an electric pump. Manual pumping is possible, but requires considerable physical effort, especially to pump the high-pressure bottom to the desired state.
The sequence of actions is simple: spread the boat, pump the cylinders to 0.2 atm, then the bottom to 0.25 atm, install the seats and the transom board (if removable). It is important to check the pressure with a gauge, because it is easy to make an eye mistake. Under-pumped bottom will quickly lose shape, and the pumped can burst.
⚠️ Attention: After operating in salt water, be sure to wash the boat with fresh water. The salt crystallizes in the folds of the material and, when blown off, acts as an abrasive, destroying the inner layer of PVC.
Storage of the boat requires a temperature regime. Azimuth In a dry, cool room, at temperatures between +5 and +25 degrees Celsius, freezing PVC makes it fragile, and storing it in a hot garage in the summer can lead to material dissection. Before packing, the boat must be completely dry.
How quickly to dry a boat in the field?
If you can't dry the boat at home, use microfiber soaking cloths. Rub all surfaces with attention to the joints and corners. Leave the boat spread out in the shade in the wind for 30-40 minutes. Don't pack the damp boat, guaranteed to produce mold and a bad smell that's very difficult to remove.
Typical malfunctions and their elimination
In the process of operation, owners Azimuth 350 They can have a number of standard problems, the most common of which is pressure loss in hot weather or cold nights, and it's not a defect, it's a physical property of gases, and pressure adjustment solves the problem.
The second common problem is peeling off the shingle beam or the tranza lining, which is due to the use of poor-quality glue in repair or the natural aging of the glue seam, and to correct the defect, you need to clean the surfaces, degrease and re-glue with special glue for PVC.
Mechanical punctures are less common, but require surgery. The remplekt usually has patches and glue. It is important to apply a patch with a margin of 2-3 cm at the edges and carefully roll with a roller, removing air. If the puncture is at the seam, you should contact the service center.
Regular pressure checks and visual inspection of the seams before each season extend the life of the Azimuth 350 twice.
Comparison with competitors and final choice
In the inflatable boat market Azimuth 350 Competing with Flagman, Cayman and Mneve, Azimuth's main advantage is often priced at a decent quality of materials, but competitors may offer more sophisticated cockpit ergonomics or lighter modifications.
When you choose this boat, you get a time-tested design that won't surprise you with space technology, but it will earn your money honestly. For a fisherman who cares about sustainability and being able to stand up full-length, NHD is the perfect choice. For high-speed walks, consider the inflatable keel (NDK).
In conclusion, it is worth saying that Azimuth 350 NDLD It's a workhorse for those who value practicality, and if you take care of it and store it properly, it will last 5-7 years or more, giving you stability on the water.
Where can I find original parts?
Original remixes and seats are best ordered from official brand dealers or in specialized water motor stores. Avoid universal Chinese analogues of glue and fabric, as their chemical composition may not match the material of your boat, which will lead to the detachment of the patch in a month.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the maximum weight of the engine to be put on the Azimuth 350?
Officially, manufacturers often recommend engines up to 10-12 hp However, the transom can withstand up to 15 hp Installation of a more powerful motor (18-20 hp) is possible, but requires strengthening the transom and experienced control, since the boat becomes less stable at high speeds.
Do I need to get the air out of the boat at night?
Yes, if the boat is standing on the water or under the sun, the pressure will increase during the day and may damage the seams. It is recommended to blow the air to a soft state or completely lower the boat if a sharp cold snap is expected at night.
Can you walk on Azimuth 350 on a large wave?
The boat is certified for swimming in waters with a wave height of 0.6-0.75 meters (depending on the modification), going to a large wave on an inflatable boat without a keel is dangerous and is not recommended even for experienced water engines.
How to wash the boat after fishing?
Use a soft sponge and warm water with neutral soap solution. Do not use aggressive chemicals, solvents or hard brushes that can damage the protective layer of PVC.
How long does the boat dry before packing?
In sunny and windy weather, 30-40 minutes are enough. In cloudy weather or high humidity, it is better to leave the boat in straightened form for 2-3 hours or dry at home with a fan. Wet boat packaging is unacceptable.