The modern market of small boats offers a wide range of solutions for lovers of water tourism and fishing, but it is the only one that can be used for fishing. trimaran-type PVC Unlike the classic flat-bottomed models or inflatable keel boats, the trimaran design involves three longitudinal cylinders, where the central element serves as a keel, and the lateral ones serve as outriggers for stabilization.
This configuration allows to significantly improve the driving performance of the vessel, providing more confident plane even when using medium-power engines. The inflatable trimaran It is an excellent choice for those who appreciate speed and maneuverability, but are not ready to put up with the bulkiness of rigid housings or low stability of simple flat-plants.
In this article, we will discuss in detail why. trimaranth It is considered one of the most effective for inflatable vessels, what hidden advantages it gives to anglers and tourists, as well as what technical nuances should pay close attention when buying.
Design features of the trimaran scheme
The basis of any trimaran The central cylinder is usually smaller in diameter than the onboard cylinder and rigidly connected to the transom, forming a kind of inflatable keel. The side cylinders are attached to the sides, creating additional width and volume, which is critical for the development of the air. stability The boat is on the wave.
It is important to understand that trimaranth It means that there is no hard keel in the traditional sense, but the shape of the central cylinder creates the necessary hydrodynamic profile, which allows the vessel to more easily go up to the planing and to keep its course in lateral wind or current. Some models use a stringer system to increase the rigidity of the connection of the cylinders with the floorboards.
⚠️ Attention: When pumping a trimaranno boat, strictly follow the manufacturer's instructions on the priority of pumping cylinders. Uneven pressure can lead to skewed design and damage to the seams at the mounting points of the central keel.
The material for production is most often reinforced PVC High density, which provides protection against puncture and ultraviolet radiation. Seams are made by hot welding, which ensures tightness even during prolonged operation in extreme conditions. The internal structure of the cylinders can include additional bulkheads to improve safety.
Advantages over flat-bottomed models
The main competitor of trimarans in the inflatable vessel market remains the classic flat-bottom boats (NP), however, trimaran They're not getting any better at a number of key things, especially seaworthiness: the three-balloon structure cuts the wave much better, making it softer and dryer, and passengers and fishing gear are less exposed to splashes and water impacts.
The second important advantage is manageabilityThe narrowed nose of the central cylinder makes the boat more docile on the steering wheel and easier to turn, especially when driving at high speeds or in limited maneuverable space, such as in overgrown reed bays.
- 🚀 Fuel savings: Improved hydrodynamics allows you to develop the same speed at lower engine speeds, which reduces gasoline consumption.
- ⚓ High stability: The wide base of side cylinders prevents critical rolling even when a fisherman moves abruptly inside the cockpit.
- 🌊 Comfort of running: The lower pitching amplitude reduces crew fatigue during long transitions.
It is also worth noting that trimaran They often have a greater buoyancy margin than similarly long flat-bottomers, which allows more cargo or passengers to be carried on board without significantly reducing the height of the board above the water, which directly affects safety.
The trimaran scheme is ideal for large bodies of water where the wave often rises, and where the speed of transition to the fishing point is important.
Driving performance and speed
When it comes to speed, trimaran The bottom shape is very good, and it allows you to quickly get off the water and get on plane mode, and this is especially important for motor owners up to 5-9.9 hp, who may not be able to reach their top speed on flat-bottomed boats because of the high water resistance.
When moving on sleeving, the boat relies on water mainly at the back of the central cylinder and transem, which minimizes the contact area and reduces friction. Hydrodynamic specifications such designs make it easier to overcome the oncoming flow and lateral excitement, maintaining the exchange rate stability.
However, it should be borne in mind that the right speed potential is necessary to realize the right hangingShifting the center of gravity too far forward or backward can have a negative impact on the planing output, and the optimal position is closer to the transom, but without overloading the stern.
The effect of wind on the course of the trimaran
Due to the low profile of the central cylinder, the sailing of the trimaran boat is often lower than that of the tall flat-bottomers. However, wide side cylinders can catch the lateral wind, creating demolition, and this can be compensated by proper operation of the engine or using a floating anchor when fishing in drift.
For maximum efficiency, it is recommended to use long leg motors, as cross-board Trimarans are often lower than classic models to ensure the optimal angle of attack of the screw.
Comparison of specifications: Trimaran vs. Ploskodonka
To make a final decision on the choice, it is advisable to conduct a comparative analysis of the technical parameters. trimaran and a classic flat-bottom model of the same length.
| Parameter | Trimaran type boat | Classic flat-bottom (NP) |
|---|---|---|
| Body shape | Three cylinders (central keel) | Flat or V-shaped |
| Resilience on the wave | High (wave cut) | Medium (slaps on the wave) |
| Gleaming speed | Higher than 10-15% | Basic |
| Management | Excellent, course-based stability | Good, but prone to yaw. |
| Weight gathered | A little higher (more material) | Minimum |
As you can see from the table, trimaran It's a trade-off that's made to improve performance, and it's a trade-off in terms of performance and comfort, but it can lose weight and dimensions when packaged, and it's a trade-off that you make to improve performance, and for fishing in calm lakes, the difference may not be as noticeable, but it's going to be a deciding factor on Ladoga or Onega.
It is also worth mentioning the cost: trimaran They're usually more expensive because of the more complex design and the more materials they consume, but that overpayment often pays off with durability and enhanced operational capabilities.
Operation and care of trimaran
Care for triman It is not unlike other inflatable vessels, but it has its own nuances: special attention should be paid to the docking places of the center and side cylinders, as well as the mounting of stringers. Regular check of pressure in the cylinders before each release to the water is a mandatory rule.
After operating in salt water or dirty water bodies, the vessel must be thoroughly washed with fresh water. Pay special attention to valves and seams. It is better to keep the boat in a straightened form or in a freely folded state, avoiding the formation of hard clamps on the material. PVC.
- 🧼 Cleanup: Use soft sponges and special PVC remedies, avoiding aggressive chemicals and abrasives.
- ☀️ UV protection: When standing in the sun for a long time, cover the boat with an awning or cover to prevent degradation of the material.
- 🔧 Repair: Always have a repair kit with glue and patches that match the color and type of material of your boat.
⚠️ Warning: Do not leave a fully pumped boat in direct sunlight in hot weather. The air pressure inside the cylinders can rise to critical values and cause the seams to rupture.
Timely service coatboard The wooden elements of the transom are recommended to be periodically treated with moisture retardants, and metal rings and holders are lubricated to prevent corrosion.
☑️ Preparation for the season
Popular models and manufacturers
The Russian market has a wide choice trimaran The leading brands are those that specialize in the production of inflatable vessels for harsh operating conditions. Badger, Flagship, Aqua and others.
Models from Badger They are known for their high-quality reinforced PVC and sophisticated ergonomics. Their trimaran series are often equipped with reinforced transes and extra pockets for gear. Flagship They are valued for their availability and reliability, offering a good balance of price and quality for beginners.
When choosing a specific model, you should pay attention not only to the brand, but also to the technical specifications: tissue density, number of layers, quality of fittings. Critically important parameter is the load capacity and the permissible power of the engineThis is in line with your plans for using the boat.
When buying, pay attention to the availability of removable floorboards (sleighs). Aluminum or plywood sleigh greatly simplify the assembly and drying of the boat, and also increase the comfort of being in the cockpit.
Some manufacturers offer the installation option high-pressure inflatable keel (HPD) It's combined with a trimarann scheme, which creates a hybrid design with outstanding driving performance, and these boats are assembled faster because they don't require stacking rigid floorboards, but they cost more.
How to choose the size of a trimaran type boat?
Size depends on the number of passengers and engine power. For single fishing with a 5 hp engine, the optimal length is 2.8-3.2 meters. For two and a 9.9 hp engine, it is better to choose a length of 3.4-3.8 meters. Note that a longer boat will be heavier in transportation, but more comfortable on the wave.
Can I install a sonar on a trimaran?
Yes, it's possible to install a sonar, and it's even easier than some flat-bottoms, and you can attach it to a transom or use cast models, and the key is to ensure that there are no air bubbles under the sensor when you're moving, which is decided by the right place to attach it in trimarans.
How difficult is it to build a trimaran boat by yourself?
The trimaran assembly is not much more complicated than the assembly of a conventional boat, and the main difference is that you have to control the symmetry of pumping side cylinders, which takes 10 to 15 minutes with experience, and using a pump with a foot or electric drive makes it much easier.
What repairs are possible in the field?
In the field, minor repairs of punctures and cuts up to 3-5 cm in length can be made with a remix, the surface is degreased, glue is applied and a patch is installed, serious damage to valves or seams requires treatment in a specialized workshop.