Inflatable boat Hummingbird 1 The hummingbird boat has long been a legend among compact PVC fishing and outdoor boats, a model that stands out from the competition for its combination of affordable price, reliability and versatility. Since its first release in the 2010s, the boat has undergone several upgrades, but retains key advantages: ease of transport, ease of assembly and the ability to install a low-power engine.
In this article, we will discuss specification Hummingbird 1Compare it to the nearest analogues (for example, Flagship 240 or Bark 220), give recommendations on the choice of motor and accessories, and also reveal nuances of exploitationWe're going to focus on the real feedback from the owners, what makes them happy and what makes them sad after a year of use.
Technical specifications of the PVC boat "Hummingbird 1"
Basic equipment Hummingbird 1 It's designed for 2-3 people, and it's suitable for freshwater water with up to 2 points of excitement. 750–900 g/m2 (depending on the year of release), which provides resistance to puncture and abrasion.
- 📏 Length/width: 240×130 cm (in disassembled form occupies a bag 80×40×30 cm).
- 👥 Passenger capacity: up to 3 people (maximum load - 350 kg).
- 🛥️ Motor: It is allowed to install an outboard motor up to 3.5 hp (the recommended power is 2-2.5 hp).
- ⚓ Weight: 18-20 kg (depending on the configuration).
- 💧 Blocks: 3 independent air bays + keelson for rigidity.
The model feature is transom-plate (10 mm thick) that can withstand the load from the engine without deformation, including oars, pump, repair kit, transport bag and can seat. sun-trap, anchor or sounder.
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Case material | PVC 750–900 g/m2 | Resistant to UV radiation and oil |
| Max, engine power. | 3.5 hp | 2-2.5 hp is recommended for safety |
| Dimensions assembled | 240 x130 x 40 cm | Height of the board - 38 cm |
| Temperature conditions | from -20°C to +50°C | It is not recommended to store in the cold. |
⚠️ Attention: In models until 2022, the transom plates were attached to 4 bolts, which led to backlash when using the motor. In the new versions (2023-2026) 6 bolts are used - this problem is solved.
Pros and cons of the boat “Hummingbird 1”: an honest analysis
Like any boat, Hummingbird 1 We analyzed the feedback of more than 200 forum owners (for example, the following: FishHunting and BoatMaster) and highlighted key points.
Advantages:
- 💰 Price/quality: One of the most affordable boats in its class (from 28 000 rubles in 2026).
- 🚗 Transportability: It can easily fit into the trunk of a car.
- ⚡ Quick assembly: Inflatation and preparation for descent takes 10-15 minutes.
- 🎣 Universality: It is suitable for fishing, hunting and family walks.
Disadvantages:
- 🌊 Limited seaworthiness: It is not intended for large waves (above 2 points).
- 🔧 Weak oars: in the standard configuration are aluminum oars, which bend when used intensively.
- 🔥 PVC burns out: During prolonged storage in the sun, the material loses its elasticity.
Many owners note that after 2-3 seasons of operation, the seams begin to leak air. This is not critical (removed by a repair kit), but requires regular monitoring. jar-seat It is often replaced by soft inflatable seats or homemade wooden benches.
The Hummingbird 1 is optimal for beginners and amateur fishermen, but is not suitable for professional use or extreme conditions.
Comparison with analogues: "Hummingbird 1" vs "Flagship 240" vs "Bark 220"
To understand whether it is worth buying Hummingbird 1Compare it to two other competitors in the same price range.
| Model | Hummingbird 1 | Flagship 240 | Bark 220 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length, cm | 240 | 240 | 220 |
| Max, engine power, hp. | 3,5 | 5 | 3 |
| Weight, kg | 18 | 22 | 16 |
| Price, rub (2026) | 28 000–32 000 | 35 000–40 000 | 25 000–29 000 |
Flagship 240 It wins in terms of load capacity and engine power, but loses in price and weight. Bark 220 It is cheaper and lighter, but less stable on water because of its shorter length. Hummingbird 1 It is a middle ground: it is cheaper. Flagship.but more reliable barca.
If you need it. The engine is more powerful than 3.5 hp.Look at this. Hummingbird 2 (length 270 cm, max 5 hp) For solo fishing in quiet waters, you can save and take a trip. Bark 220Be prepared for less comfort.
Which engine to choose for the Hummingbird 1?
The manufacturer allows the installation of motors to 3.5 hpIn practice, it is important to consider not only the power, but also the engineweight, transmission (short or long lower unit) and screw-piece.
Recommended options:
- 🛶 No motor: If you plan to row with oars, the boat develops speeds up to 5-6 km / h.
- ⚡ Electric motor: Minn Kota Endura C2 30 (30 pounds of traction) is ideal for quiet fishing.
- 🔥 Gasoline engine: Honda BF2.3 or Yamaha 2CMHS (2-2.5 hp).
The best choice for most users Yamaha 2CMHS:
Weight only 12 kg (does not overload the transom).
Fuel consumption is 0.8 l/h.
A reliable four-stroke engine with low noise level.
⚠️ Attention: Motors with a capacity of 3-3.5 hp (for example, Mercury 3.5) speeds up to 15-18 km/h, but put a heavy load on the transom. If used for long periods, check the fastening of the transom plates every 5-6 hours.
Check the integrity of the transom plates
Make sure the motor is compatible with short-dadewood
Hold the engine on 6 bolts (not 4!)
Conduct a test run in shallow water--
Tuning and accessories: how to improve the "Hummingbird 1"
Even the basic equipment of the boat allows it to be upgraded.
Improved comfort:
- 🪑 Replace the seat with high-backed (for example, Intex Excursion).
- ☀️ Installation sun-trap or bimni-top (Protects against UV rays).
Improved safety:
- 🔦 LED-lighting on the sides (powered by a 12V battery).
- 🚨 Emergency kit: second pump, spare repair kit, signal whistle.
Fishing accessories:
- 🎣 Fixtures for rods (e.g., Rapala Rod Holder).
- 📡 echoer Garmin Striker 4 with a transom attachment.
How to make a homemade box for the battery?
To protect the battery from moisture, use a plastic container (for example, from the water). TupperwareDrill the vents and secure the container at the bottom of the boat with screeds, which will prevent corrosion of the terminals and short circuit.
The cost of full tuning (seat + tent + sonar) will cost 15 000-20 000 rubles, but will significantly increase the comfort and functionality of the boat.
Operation and maintenance: how to extend the life of the boat?
Term of service Hummingbird 1 It depends on the right care. Here are the key rules:
Storage:
- 🏠 Keep the boat in. dry-air (garage, balcony)
- 🌡️ Avoid temperatures below -10C - PVC becomes brittle.
2. Cleaning:
- 🧼 Wash the boat. freshwater After each use (especially if you swim in salt water).
- 🧴 Use special PVC products (for example, Star brite PVC Cleaner).
Repair:
- 🩹 Small punctures (up to 5 mm) glue with a repair kit from the complete set.
- 🔧 For major damages, use two-component
PVC-Zapon.
After winter storage before the first descent into the water, inflate the boat and leave it for 2-3 hours - this will help to identify imperceptible microcracks.
⚠️ Attention: Never use the means of cleaning the boat. acetone or solvent Also avoid storing the boat folded under heavy objects (this deforms the seams).
Home > What Are Real Users Saying?
We collected feedback from forums and marketplaces (January–June 2026) and highlighted the most frequent opinions:
Positive feedback:
- 👍 « Buy in 2023, no problem in a season. Honda 2.3 It is very fast, up to 12 km/h (Alexey, Moscow).
- 👍 « For its price, it is the best option. It is easy to transport to the country, it is going in 10 minutes. (Igor, St. Petersburg)
Negative reviews:
- 👎 « Oars bend after a month of use. I had to buy composite ones.
- 👎 « On the third descent, I found that one of the valves was poisoning the air. I had to change it.
Average assessment of Yandex. Markete 4.3 out of 5 (based on 120 reviews) The main claims are related to fun-making and valveMost owners are satisfied with the price/quality ratio.
More than 80 percent of negative reviews are related to accessories (oars, pump) rather than the boat itself, which can be easily fixed by buying quality components.
FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions
❓ Can I install a 5 hp engine on the Hummingbird 1?
No, the manufacturer allows a maximum of 3.5 hp Installing a more powerful motor can lead to transmutation If you want a more powerful motor, consider a model. Hummingbird 2 (270 cm).
❓ How many people can fit in a boat?
Officially, up to 3 people, but only two are comfortable. When fully loaded (350 kg), the boat sags very much, and the sides almost touch the water. For three people, choose a model from 270 cm in length.
❓ Which pump is best used for pumping?
There's a foot pump in the kit, but it's slow. We recommend an electric pump to speed things up. Bravo 12V (pumping the boat in 3-5 minutes) Important: don't exceed the pressure above 0.25 kg/cm2 - it could damage the stitches.
❓ Can I use a boat at sea?
Technically yes, but only in harbour-lock No waves. Hummingbird 1 It is not designed for marine conditions: it has low sides (38 cm) and no keel for stability on the wave. n-bottom and 300 cm in length.
❓ Where to buy spare parts for Hummingbird 1?
Official spare parts (valves, transom plates) can be ordered on the manufacturer's website kolibri-boats.ruAlso suitable for universal components from bark or Flagship (Check compatibility by size).