Choosing a swimming aid for fishing or a family holiday on the water often poses a difficult dilemma for the buyer: to find a balance between cost, reliability and comfort. In the segment of PVC inflatable boats, a special place is occupied by domestic models that have made a real leap in quality in recent years. boat Azimuth 380It has earned the respect of boaters for its practicality and thoughtful design.
This model is designed to fit the operating conditions of different climates, making it versatile for regions with variable weather, and the designers have focused on the aerodynamics of cylinders and transom strength, which allows for motors up to 15 horsepower. Azimuth 380 It is a great choice for those who appreciate speed and safety on the water.
In this article, we will discuss all the nuances, from the materials of manufacture to the real experience of the process for an outboard motor, you will learn why this particular size range is considered the “golden mean” in the world of inflatable boats, and we will also touch on the issues of longevity of seams and the features of fabric care, so that your purchase will last for many years without complaints.
Structural features and materials of the body
The basis of any inflatable boat is the material from which it is made. The Azimuth 380 uses high-density multi-layer reinforced PVC fabric, which not only holds air, but also creates a rigid frame that can withstand mechanical stress when hit by a wave or when it comes into contact with driftwood. Five-layer structure fabric provides excellent resistance to ultraviolet light and fuel, which is critical for the long life of the product.
And the design of the cylinders is particularly noteworthy, and they're in the form of torpedoes, which allows you to do this. Azimuth 380 It's easy to cut the wave rather than ram it with your nose, and this geometry greatly reduces the risk of cockpit splashing even when it's running at full gas, and the increased diameter of the cylinders gives the vessel additional stability, allowing it to feel confident on the water even when two people are inside the boat.
⚠️ Warning: Despite the high strength of the fabric, avoid prolonged contact of inflated cylinders with hot surfaces or open fire. PVC material can deform at extreme temperatures, which will lead to loss of sealing seams.
The seams in this model are made by the method hot-glue It's a welding method that ensures that the structure is monolithic, and unlike adhesives, the weld doesn't dry out over time and can withstand tremendous tear loads, making the boat virtually indestructible when properly operated and stored. For additional protection, the bottom is often covered by a slate overhead or a timber that takes the main impacts.
- 🌊 Torpedo shape The balloons are excellent for the wave.
- 🛡️ Reinforced PVC density of at least 750 g/sq.m. for protection against punctures.
- 🔥 Welded seams that guarantee 100% tightness throughout the service life.
- ⚓ Reinforced keelson along the entire bottom for structural rigidity.
Trawn and outboard motors
The most important element determining driving performance is the transom board. Azimuth 380 A reinforced transom is installed, designed to install motors up to 15 hp The design is made of moisture-resistant plywood of the highest grade, which is additionally protected by fiberglass or a special lacquer coating, which prevents the stratification of the tree even after a long stay in water.
When choosing a motor for this boat, it is worth considering that thrust-optimal With this engine, the boat goes to plane with two passengers and a full set of equipment. Less power (5-6 hp) is also permissible, but in this case the boat will move in displacement mode, which significantly reduces speed and increases fuel consumption per kilometer of travel.
When installing the motor, be sure to use the safety cable. Run it through the regular dips on the transom and securely fix the engine on the lower unit so that in case of vibration or weakening of the rods, the engine does not go to the bottom.
The transom is standardized at 381 mm (15 inches) in height, which corresponds to most modern outboard motors, fastening is done with reliable stainless brackets that do not rust under the influence of salt water, it is important to monitor the condition of the fasteners and periodically lubricate them with graphite lubricant to prevent “stallation”.
| Parameter | Meaning | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum engine power | 15 hp. | 9.9bhp is recommended. |
| Transcent height | 381 mm | Standard Long Shaft |
| Transcent material | Plywood + protection | Waterproof impregnation |
| Load capacity | 550 kg | Considering the weight of the boat |
Indoor space and configuration
The comfort of the water is made up of small things, and the manufacturers of the boat Azimuth 380 understand this perfectly. The interior of the cockpit is organized so that the most efficient use of usable area. Inflatable seats (banks) are attached to special liktros or locks, which allows you to easily change their position depending on the situation: fishing requires one landing, and moving – another.
Standard equipment usually includes everything you need to start operation: two propellers, a remix, a bag-packaging and a pump. However, many owners immediately think about upgrading. floor-floor High pressure (HID) instead of plywood slates allows for a significant reduction in weight and easier assembly, although it requires a more powerful pump.
Along the sides are linear lines that can be held in case of overkill or for ease of landing. sonarA well-designed sling system allows loads to be secured so that they do not shift during sharp maneuvers, which is especially true when trolling.
- 🪑 Removable inflatable seats with a soft surface for comfort.
- 🎣 Installed holders for rods in the sides.
- 🎒 A large bag for transporting all components.
- 🔧 Full remake with valves and patches in the kit.
☑️ Pre-launch checks
Assembly and preparation for launching
The process of assembling the boat Azimuth 380 does not require special skills, but following the sequence of actions will prolong the life of the product. The first thing is to decompose the boat on a flat surface, cleared of spines and sharp objects. The pumping of cylinders should be done in stages, alternating the sides to avoid distortion of the structure and uneven tension of the seams.
The recommended operating pressure in the cylinders is 0.2 atmosphere. Do not pump the boat in the sun, as when heated, the air expands, and the pressure inside can exceed critical values, which will lead to a high pressure. sutureIf you're assembling a boat indoors and you plan to launch it in the sun, you'd better under-pump it by 10 to 15 percent, and then pump it out on the water.
⚠️ Warning: Never use compressors connected to the exhaust system of the car without an oil filter to pump, oily vapors of gasoline settle inside the PVC and destroy the material from the inside, making it brittle.
The floorboards are installed after the cylinders are first pumped, the plates are stacked in series, and the pressure is finally added, and this technology provides a flat and rigid floor surface that you can walk on in rigid shoes without fear of damaging the bottom, and the entire assembly process for an experienced user takes no more than 15-20 minutes.
How fast can I lower the boat?
For rapid deflation, open all the valves and use the back of the pump (if there is a blow mode) or simply press the valve with your hand, twisting the cylinders from transom to nose.
Operation under different conditions
The Azimuth 380 is a very confident boat in both calm reservoirs and temperate rivers. High sides are very protective against splashes, which allows you to keep your clothes dry even when you're excited. However, it's worth remembering that the inflatable boat has a high sailing speed, so with strong side winds, management may require certain skills and skill.
Winter fishing is also possible using this model, but requires a temperature regime. PVC material in the cold tans and becomes more vulnerable to mechanical damage. Azimuth 380 In winter, try not to throw it on the ice abruptly and not drag it through the snow, it is better to prepare the place of descent in advance, clearing the snow to water.
In rocky bottoms or overgrown shores, the boat behaves predictably. A reinforced quilson and dense fabric take the bulk of the load. However, mooring to sharp objects (concrete slabs, metal brackets) without the use of tapers is not recommended. For frequent landings on unequipped shore, it is useful to have a piece of dense carpet or a special lining with you.
- 🌬️ Excellent course stability in the wind due to keeliness.
- 🌊 The ability to hold a wave height of 0.5 meters.
- ❄️ Operating at temperatures up to -30 C (with restrictions).
- ☀️ Resistance to UV radiation allows you to leave the boat in the sun.
Care, storage and durability
For the Azimuth 380 to be a pleasure for many years, you need to take good care of it. After every fishing, especially in salt water or in flowering water bodies, the boat must be rinsed with fresh water. Salt and organic residue can erode the material and accessories, reducing the resource of the product. Drying before packaging is a prerequisite to prevent mold and unpleasant smell.
Keeping the boat straightened or half-folded in a warm room is best. If you don't have that option and the boat is kept rolled up in the garage, try not to put heavy loads on it. Periodically, at least once a season, the boat needs to be inflated and inspected for microcracks or scuffs, timely repair of the small hole will prevent a big problem in the future.
The main secret of the durability of PVC boats is storage in a clean, dry and cool place without direct sunlight in a folded state.
Use a soft sponge and soap solution to clean. Aggressive chemicals, solvents and gasoline can damage the top layer of the cloth, making it sticky or matte. If the cloth has become persistently contaminated, you should use specialized inflatable boat care products, which can be found in any specialty store.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the maximum weight to be loaded into the Azimuth 380?
rated carrying capacity is about 550 kg, however, for comfortable and safe operation with the engine, it is recommended not to exceed the load of 350-400 kg. This will ensure optimal germination and buoyancy reserve.
Can I use the Azimuth 380 for diving?
Yes, the design of the boat allows you to use it for diving, stable cylinders and the presence of liner lines make it easier to land in the equipment, but it is worth considering that the cylinders can be damaged by flippers or sharp edges of equipment, so you need to be careful.
What pressure should be in the cylinders in summer and winter?
In summer, at high temperatures, the pressure should be kept within 0.18-0.2 atm to avoid pumping in the sun. In winter, at low temperatures, the pressure can be increased to 0.22-0.25 atm, since in the cold it will naturally fall.
How long does the boat dry after fishing?
The drying time depends on the weather. On a sunny windy day, the boat will dry in 30 to 40 minutes. In cloudy and humid weather, the process can take 2-3 hours. It is important to make sure that the water is not left in the folds and under the sleigh before packaging.