Choosing a swimming aid for fishing or family vacations on the water is often a complex process, requiring a balanced approach and in-depth analysis of technical specifications. cockpit The vessel is distinguished by its unique trimaran hull design, which provides the vessel with exceptional stability and the ability to confidently hold the wave, which is critical for the safety of the crew in real-world water conditions.
The presence of the control console in the basic configuration or as an option significantly expands the functionality of the vessel, allowing you to ergonomically place navigation devices and engine controls. Plastic glass enclosures They have long proven to be durable and maintenance-free, unlike metal counterparts that are prone to corrosion or inflatable models that are vulnerable to mechanical damage. In this article, we will discuss in detail why the trimaran configuration makes this model so popular among water engines.
Many potential owners wonder whether to overpay for the specific geometry of the bottom, and here it is important to understand the difference between a classic flat-bottom and a multi-hull scheme. The trimaran scheme of the Penguin boat hull allows you to develop a higher speed at the same engine power due to a decrease in water resistance. We will cover all aspects of owning such a vessel, from trailer transport to the nuances of winter storage, so you can make the final decision.
Structural features of the trimaran body
The basis of any boat is its body, and in the case of a model penguin So the engineers relied on a time-tested trimaran circuit, and this geometry implies a central pontoon body and two onboard outriggers that act as stabilizers. Resilience This vessel is much higher than that of traditional monohulls, which is especially appreciated by fishermen who have to stand up in full height to throw gear or work with a sonar.
Use of use fiberglass It allows you to create complex contours without losing strength, which is difficult to achieve when working with aluminum. It does not rot, does not rust and has excellent repairability in the event of serious damage, although scratches on the gelcoat are almost invisible in operation. floating-blockThis makes the boat almost unsinkable even when the cockpit is fully filled with water.
⚠️ Attention: Despite the high strength of fiberglass, when hitting a concrete obstacle at high speed, it is possible to chip the outer decorative layer. It is recommended to carefully study the fairway and avoid shallow water at full speed.
The weight of the structure is also important: plastic glass is heavier than aerial aluminum, but lighter than steel, which, when combined with a trimaranne scheme, gives the optimal balance. The boat behaves perfectly on plane, and the shape of the bottom contributes to a soft entry into the wave, reducing the shock load on passengers, which makes travel comfortable even with moderate chop, when it is no longer comfortable or dangerous to be on flat-bottomers.
Ergonomics and functionality of the steering console
The presence of a control console turns a simple rowing or motor boat into a full-fledged small boat, designed for long walks and serious fishing. penguin It's usually designed with standard steering gears and steering wheels in place. remote-control gas and gear shifting, which frees the operator's hands and increases the safety of control.
The console's surface and niches provide space for the installation of navigational electronics: GPS navigators, sonars and cartplotters. This is critical for fishermen, as it allows them to keep their instruments in front of their eyes without being distracted from the control of the vessel. Wiring often hides inside the console's structure or under removable panels, which protects it from moisture, ultraviet and mechanical damage.
- 🛡️ Device protection: The console often has a visor, preventing glare on the screen and direct sunlight.
- 🔋 Accommodation of AKB: In some versions, there is a compartment for batteries at the base of the console for proper weighting.
- 💺 Seat anchorage: The design allows you to install a rotary fishing chair in front of the console for the captain.
It's worth noting that the console layout reduces the usable space in the nose, but this trade-off is fully justified by increasing the comfort of the control. Windshield, if it's provided by the model, cuts off the oncoming airflow, allowing passengers to talk even at high speeds, which turns a walk from a wind test into a pleasant journey.
When installing electronics on the console, be sure to use sealed connectors and additionally treat the contacts with a moisture dislodging spray to prevent oxidation.
Technical specifications and load capacity
When choosing a boat, the key parameters are always the dimensions, weight and permissible engine power. penguin They come in a variety of different versions, which allows you to choose an option for both solo fishing and for family holidays. load-carrying capacityThe raft often exceeds the indicators of similar in length aluminum boats due to the three-dimensional design of pontoons.
The recommended engine is directly dependent on the length of the body and its contours. For most models, outboard motors with a capacity of 5 to 15 horsepower will be the best choice. Installing an overly powerful motor can lead to a nose buried in a wave or loss of controllability, so it is important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations specified in the article. boat's passport.
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum length | 4.20 - 4.80m | Depends on the modification. |
| Body width | 1.60 - 1.80 m | Including outriggers |
| Dry weight of the hull | 120 - 160 kg | No motor or equipment. |
| Passenger capacity | 4-5 people. | With equipment in mind |
| Max. Power PM. | 15 - 20 hp. | Recommended |
And it's important to consider that the actual weight on the water will be the body mass, the weight of the motor, the fuel, the crew, the gear, and the trimaran scheme allows you to carry that weight effectively, keeping the differentiation close to ideal, which means that the boat won't be tilted heavily on board when you move people inside the cockpit, which is often the case with narrow boats.
☑️ Pre-purchase check
Comparison with aluminum and inflatable analogues
The small boat market is crowded with supply and competition between materials is high. Aluminum boats (such as Kazanka or Wind) are traditionally popular because of their lightness and impact resistance, but they make a lot of noise on the water and are prone to electrochemical corrosion, especially when in contact with salt water or heterogeneous metals. Fiberglass In this respect, it benefits, as it is a dielectric and does not resonate sound as much, making the stay on the water quieter.
PVC inflatable boats are better off in weight and transportability, they can be taken away in the trunk of a passenger car, but they are inferior in speed and comfort. control-console It's easier to punch a balloon against a sharp stone or a reinforcement on the shore than it is to damage a composite body. penguin It occupies a niche between these extremes, offering a rigid body and high speed.
⚠️ Note: When comparing prices, consider the cost of a complete set. Fiberglass boats often already need a trailer, whereas the inflatable can be carried manually, saving on transportation.
The durability of fiberglass, when properly operated, can be measured in decades; aluminum can get tired of constant vibrations and shocks; it can crack at welds; a composite boat, when handled carefully, lasts almost forever, requiring only periodic polishing and UV protection; this makes investing in fiberglass trimaran economically viable over long distances.
Operation, maintenance and repair
Care for a fiberglass boat does not require specialized skills, but has its own specifications. The main enemy of the material is ultraviolet light and algae fouling during prolonged idle time in the water. It is recommended after each trip to rinse the body with fresh water, washing off salt and dirt, and use special waxes-polyreoles to protect the body. gelcoatThis will keep the shine and prevent microcracks.
In the case of damage, which is rare, fiberglass is perfectly repairable, and the repair technology is similar to the repair of bumpers in cars or yacht hulls: stripping, applying fiberglass and polyester resin, grinding and painting. The owner can perform minor repairs on his own with a minimal set of tools, which distinguishes the material from aluminum, which often requires argon welding and workshop equipment.
How to keep a boat in winter?
A plastic glass boat is best kept indoors or under a tight awning to avoid temperature changes. Before wintering, you need to drain water, wash the body and treat metal parts with preservative grease. Storing outside without protection can lead to fading and microcracks from freezing moisture in the pores of the material.
Regular maintenance also includes checking the fasteners, the condition of the transom and floating blocks. Particular attention should be paid to the places where the bulkheads are glued and the console is attached, since vibration from the motor can weaken the connections over time.
boat transport and storage
The trimaran-type boat with the console has substantial dimensions, which imposes restrictions on the way it is transported, unlike inflatable models, it cannot be folded into a backpack. boat-trailerThe width of the trimaran is often more than 160 cm, which requires compliance with the rules for the carriage of oversized goods in some cases.
When loading on a trailer, it is important to center the boat correctly so that the bulk falls on the axis of the trailer, not on the breather. This will ensure stability when towing and reduce the load on the coupling device of the car. The steering console can create sailing, so when driving on the track at high speeds, you should be careful in lateral winds.
- 🚗 Trailer: Make sure the rights category allows you to tow a trailer with a boat (usually Category B with restrictions or BE).
- 🔒 Fixation: Use high-quality screed belts with a ratchet mechanism for reliable mounting of the body.
- 🛡️ Protection during transportationCover the boat with an awning or a special cape to protect against stones and insects.
Storage of the boat is possible both on water (at anchorage or in a shell garage) and on land. The plastic glass is not afraid of moisture, but prolonged exposure to direct sunlight without protection reduces the life of the material. The ideal option is a covered pier or garage where the boat will be protected from all natural factors.
Proper preparation of the trailer and centering of the boat is the key to safe delivery to the reservoir and the absence of problems with traffic police on the road.
Results of selection and recommendations of experts
Boat. penguin And the fiberglass trimaran with a console is the choice for those who value safety, comfort and reliability, and it's not a high-speed racer, but a confident ride through a pond with family or friends, a fishing trip in all weather and a recreational outdoors, and the combination of a proven trimaran scheme and modern composite materials gives you a great result.
When you buy, you should pay attention not only to price, but also to quality of execution: no bubbles in fiberglass, smooth lines, quality of assembly of knots. A good boat serves generations, becoming a family value. If you are looking for a balance between seaworthiness, roominess and ease of maintenance, this model will be a great acquisition.
Keep in mind that any small boat requires skill and safety, and even the most resilient boat will not forgive neglecting the rules of behavior on the water and ignoring the weather forecast. Choose wisely, serve on time, and the water will give you many happy moments.
Do I need to register Penguin boat in GIMS?
Registration with GIMS is mandatory if the weight of the curbed vessel exceeds 200 kg or the engine power exceeds 8 kW (about 10.88 hp). Since fiberglass trimarans are often heavier than 200 kg even without a motor, in most cases registration will have to be done.
Which motor is better to choose: 2 or 4 stroke?
For boats of this size and weight, four-stroke engines are optimal. They are quieter, more economical and more environmentally friendly. two-stroke engines can only be considered as a budget option or if the weight is critical (they are lighter), but for a trimaran, which is already not the easiest, the difference in engine weight will not be decisive, and the comfort of a four-stroke is worth it.
Is it possible to go to sea in such a boat?
The trimaran scheme is great for coastal navigation due to its high stability. However, amateur-class fiberglass boats are not designed for open seas and large waves. You can only leave in calm weather and within safe distance from shore, observing all the rules of navigation.
How long does the glass dry after repair?
The polyester resins polymerization time depends on the air temperature and the amount of hardener. Usually the primary grasping occurs in 30-60 minutes, but the material gains full strength after 24 hours at a temperature of +20 ° C. Complete drying before painting can take up to 48 hours.