Finding a reliable and versatile fishing or recreational craft often leads to a model. Azimuth Everest 385 NDLDThis is one of the most popular requests in the mid-size inflatables segment, and potential buyers are interested not only in the cost of the kit, but also in the real performance and durability of materials in harsh Russian conditions.
Pricing on this model depends on many factors: engine configuration, availability of transom insert, type of flooring and current economic situation. In this article, we will discuss in detail what the final check amount is made of, whether to overpay for additional options and how it behaves. boat under different loads.
Before we move on to the numbers, it is important to understand that Mount 385 It's positioned as a heavy-lift boat with a reinforced bottom, and it's not just a soft-water inflator, but a full-fledged tool for reservoirs and temperate rivers, so let's see if this animal is worth the price.
Structural features and materials of the bodyThe basis of the cost of any PVC boat is the quality of the materials used. Azimuth Everest 385 The manufacturer uses five-layer reinforced PVC fabric density from 750 to 900 g / m2. This margin of safety allows the vessel to confidently keep the wave and not be afraid of contact with rocky bottom or driftwood.
Particular attention should be paid to the design low-pressure (NDND) Unlike classical plywood or aluminum floorboards, it uses a special membrane with internal stretch marks, which becomes stiff as a board when pumped, but retains elasticity. boat-sizeBecause the technology of NDNDM production is more complicated and expensive.
The boards are also reinforced, and the cylinders are divided into several independent compartments, which ensures unsinkability even if one of them is seriously punctured, and the welds are made using hot air technology, which guarantees their leakproofness over many years of operation.
⚠️ Note: When buying, pay attention to the labeling of fabric. Some unscrupulous sellers may offer boats made of thinner material (650-700 g / m2), passing them off as premium versions. True strength starts from 750 g / m2.
To protect against abrasion in the most vulnerable places, such as cheekbones and nose, additional rubber or thicker PVC linings are installed. This significantly prolongs the life of the product, especially if you plan to often pull the boat to unequipped shore.
Analysis of the NDNDT and flooring system
The main feature of the model Mount 385 Many people confuse the inflatable floor with the normal inflatable mattress, but this is a misconception. Inside the bottom cylinder are thousands of stretching threads that, when you create pressure (usually 0.2-0.25 atm), stretch to create a rigid plane.
However, the bare inflatable floor is not always convenient for fishing, so the basic or extended equipment often includes removable flooring. plywood waterproof plywoodIt is the presence and quality of this flooring that often becomes the deciding factor in determining the price.
Why is NDNDM better than plywood bottom?
The low pressure inflatable floor provides better shallow water through the boat, as the boat has less draft, and the lack of hard floorboards significantly reduces the weight of the entire kit, which is critical for single carry.
The design of the bottom allows the boat to be used even in winter. PVC materials do not lose elasticity in the cold, unlike rubber, and the absence of rigid metal or wooden elements that could freeze makes operation comfortable.
- 🚀 Toughness: The inflated bottom can withstand the weight of several adults without deflections, maintaining excellent hydrodynamics.
- 🛡️ Defense: The double layer of PVC at the bottom creates an effective buffer against sharp objects.
- ❄️ All-season: The ability to use in the cold season without the risk of damaging the structure of the material.
It is worth noting that the assembly of a boat with NDND is faster than that of models with a slate bottom. You do not need to consistently insert paioles, just spread the body, pump the cylinders and install the flooring (if it is provided by the design for stiffness of standing).
Driving and handling
How he behaves. Azimuth Everest 385 Ownership feedback and test drives converge on one thing: the boat is perfectly on course, a wide nose and developed cylinders provide good germination on the wave, and the keeled feed contributes to stability when driving.
When installing a motor with a capacity of up to 15 hp (maximum power allowed for this model), the boat easily goes into planing even with a full load (two people + equipment). However, for comfortable operation with one person and a minimum load, a motor with a capacity of 5-9.9 hp is enough.
⚠️ Warning: Exceeding the maximum engine power specified in the data sheet is not only dangerous, but can also lead to a denial of warranty service in the event of damage to the transom.
High speed control depends on the position of the center of gravity, and with the ability to adjust the position of the seats (cans), you can shift the balance of the boat, optimizing its travel for a specific load, which is especially important when trolling or when driving against the current.
The optimal engine power for Azimuth Everest 385 NDNDD - 9.9 hp This is the "golden mean", allowing you to reach speeds up to 30 km / h with a thrust reserve, remaining within the economical fuel consumption.
In quiet water, the boat shows excellent stability. The wide cockpit allows you to fish standing up (subject to the installation of the appropriate decking), which is highly appreciated by spinning. The sailing capacity of the model is medium, but with strong side winds, you may need to adjust the course.
Components and impact on cost
The price PVC boat Azimuth Everest 385 NDND It's not a fixed value. It varies greatly depending on what's included in the package. The basic version can cost significantly less, but often does not include the most essential accessories.
The standard set usually includes the boat itself, removable cans (seats), pump, remix and bag-package. However, many stores offer versions of "Luxury" or "Profi", which add transom wheels, echo-tub, anchor rump bolt and reinforced holder for rods.
And the extra squirt insert is a rigid plate that's inserted into the inflatable transom to reinforce the engine attachment, which is critical for high-powered motors, and it's not available as standard, which is a reason to think about buying more.
The price is also affected by the type of packaging: a simple PVC fabric bag is cheaper, but a specialized backpack with straps and a hard bottom makes transportation much easier, especially if you have to walk to the water on rough terrain.
- 🎒 Bag: It affects the ease of carrying and safety of the boat during transportation in the trunk.
- ⚓ Furniture: The presence of leer rings, handles for carrying and air intake valves increases functionality.
- 🪵 Floor: Laminated plywood is more expensive than usual, but it lasts longer and is better washed.
Comparison with competitors and market situation
The inflatable boat market is full of supply. Azimuth Everest 385 These are models from the Flagman, BoatWise and Solaris brands, and when comparing prices, it's important to look not only at the price tag, but also at the density of the fabric and the quality of the fittings.
Azimuth often benefits from more sophisticated cockpit ergonomics and the use of quality valves that do not poison the air even at temperature extremes. However, some competitors may offer a wider choice of colors or additional pockets in cylinders.
| Parameter | Azimuth Everest 385 | Competitor A (Budget) | Competitor B (Premium) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tissue density (g/m2) | 750-900 | 650-750 | 900-1100 |
| Load capacity (kg) | 650 | 550 | 700 |
| Type of bottom | NDMA | NDNDM/Slan | NDMA |
| Guarantee (month) | 24-36 | 12 | 60 |
When analyzing the table, it can be seen that Azimuth It's a solid middle ground, and you get a premium-like experience, but at a price that's only slightly higher than the price of the low-end ones.
When comparing prices in different stores, be sure to check whether VAT and delivery are included in the price. Sometimes the low price on the site turns out to be a trap, since the delivery of a heavy boat can cost several thousand rubles.
Maintenance and durability of operation
After every fishing trip, especially in salt water or hot weather, it is recommended to rinse the hull with fresh water, which will wash away salt, sand and organics that can destroy the structure of PVC with prolonged contact.
Store Mount 385 It is better to be straightened or semi-assembled at room temperature, and prolonged storage in a highly compressed state (in a tight bag) at low temperatures can lead to the formation of microcracks on the folds of the tissue.
⚠️ Warning: Never leave a pumped boat in direct sunlight for long periods of time unattended, and the pressure inside the cylinders increases with the temperature, which can cause the seams to rupture.
Regularly check the pressure in the cylinders with a pressure gauge. Insufficient pressure reduces driving performance and increases the risk of damage to the bottom, and excessive pressure creates a dangerous stress in the seams.
For minor repairs, PVC tape and glue are always included in the kit. However, for serious recovery (replacement of the valve, sealing large cuts), it is better to contact specialized service centers, where professional equipment for hot welding is used.
Where to buy and how not to make the wrong choice
Buy a boat Azimuth Everest 385 NDLD It's best at official dealers or large specialty stores, which will give you a guarantee that you'll get the original product, not a replica of questionable quality, and official sellers often provide after-sales support.
When ordering online, carefully examine the photos of the real product, not stock images. Pay attention to the date of production: although PVC is stored for a long time, a fresh boat is always preferable to one that has been in storage for several years in inappropriate conditions.
☑️ Pre-payment checks
There are no miracles: if the price is much lower than the average, you are likely offered a model of the previous year of release, a defective product or, in the worst case, a fake.
The ideal option is to see the boat live before you buy, assess the quality of the seams, the comfort of the seats and the overall ergonomics, and then you can see if this model is right for your specific tasks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the real capacity of the boat Azimuth Everest 385?
rated carrying capacity is 650 kg, which allows you to accommodate 3-4 people of average size, but for comfortable fishing with a stock of gear and engine, the optimal is to have two people in the boat.
Is it possible to use a boat in winter?
Yes, materials. Azimuth Everest 385 They are frost-resistant and can withstand temperatures up to -30 ° C and below, the main thing is to be careful when pumping in the cold (use warm air or let the cylinders warm up) and avoid shock loads on frozen PVC.
How long does it take to assemble and disassemble?
With experience, it takes about 10-15 minutes to assemble, 15-20 minutes to disassemble and pack, and an electric pump greatly speeds up the pumping process.
Do I need to register this boat with GIMS?
The weight of the curb boat (about 50-55 kg) in combination with the engine up to 10 hp (less than 20 kg) may not require registration if the total weight does not exceed 200 kg. However, the legislation may change, and the final decision should be clarified in the local branch of the GIMS, since the weight of the hull and engine is summed up.
How to clean the boat of mud and mud?
Warm water and a soft brush are best used, and PVC cleaners can be used to remove persistent contaminants, but aggressive chemicals (solvents, gasoline) are strictly forbidden.