Choosing a boat for small rivers and lakes often comes down to finding a balance between the dimensions in the assembled form and comfort on the water. Boat Reef 335 NDND This is a classic example of the trade-off that many anglers are looking for, and it's a model that's positioned as a reliable transport for two, while still being mobile.
The acronym for NDB stands for "low pressure inflatable floor," which is a key design feature. Unlike plywood or aluminum bottom models, the rigidity is provided by a high pressure cylinder system, which significantly reduces the weight of the kit and speeds up the preparation process for descent.
In this review, we will analyze the design features, analyze the behavior of the vessel on the wave and determine which engine will be optimal for this model. Understanding the nuances of operation will help you avoid common mistakes in choosing and using this popular boat.
Design features and materials
The basis of durability of any inflatable boat is the material from which it is made. Reef 335 Reinforced polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a five-layer fabric that provides high resistance to abrasion and puncture, and the material is typically 750-900 g/sq.m., allowing it to withstand contact with rocky bottom and coastal vegetation.
Welding technology deserves special attention. Unlike glued joints, welding creates a monolithic structure, eliminating separation under the influence of temperature changes and ultraviolet light. Stitches in this model are made with overlap, which guarantees tightness even with prolonged operation in harsh conditions.
The design of the cylinders provides for independent compartments. This is a safety requirement: in case of damage to one of the cylinders, the boat will remain afloat. The diameter of the cylinders is 35 cm (judging by the marking 335) ensures good safety. loading capacity and stability, allowing the seating of two adults and the necessary equipment.
- 🛡️ Use of reinforced PVC High density to protect against punctures.
- 🔥 Welded seams, not afraid of temperature expansions and compressions of the material.
- ⚓ Availability of several independent compartments to ensure unsinkability.
- 🧱 Reinforced linings on the bottom and nose to protect against abrasive wear.
It is important to note the quality of the fittings: the injection holders of the switches and air vent valves are made of durable composites. The high-pressure valve of the "Frog" type or its analogues allow pumping cylinders up to 0.25-0.28 atm, creating the necessary rigidity of the structure without the use of plywood sheets.
inflatable floor specificity (BBD)
The main difference is that there is no hard floorboard, the bottom is made up of inflatable tubes located across the body, and this design has its advantages and disadvantages, which must be considered before buying, the main advantage is the light weight and compactness in the transport bag.
It takes a lot less time to build a boat, so you don't have to lay out heavy sheets of plywood or aluminum, put them together with stringers and lock them in the grooves, and you just pump the cylinders and the boat is ready to go, and this is especially valuable on frequent fishing trips, where every extra kilogram and minute of assembly matters.
Use an electric pump with the function of hitchhiking to pump NDNDT cylinders. This will save forces and allow you to achieve uniform pressure in all compartments, which is critical for the formation of the correct bottom profile.
But the nuances of operating in shallow waters are important to remember: the inflatable floor is more vulnerable to sharp objects than the aluminum sheet. Although the material is strong, the risk of puncture is higher when storming rocky slops. In addition, the hardness of the bottom of the NDNDM is inferior to the hard floorboard, which can be felt when sleeved with full load.
⚠️ Warning: Never leave a fully pumped boat with NDND in direct sunlight for long periods of time unattended. Heating the air inside the cylinders can lead to a critical increase in pressure and rupture of the seams or valves.
Driving qualities and behavior on the water
How he behaves. Reef 335 In real conditions? Because of the hull contours, the boat has a good germination on the wave. High boards effectively protect against splashes, which is important when fishing in windy weather. The shape of the nose allows you to confidently cut the wave, minimizing impact on water.
The stability of the model is high. The wide cockpit and the spaced cylinders create a stable platform, so the fisherman can stand up safely to throw a spinning or change sides without fear of a sharp roll, which makes the boat suitable not only for fishing, but also for relaxing on the water with children.
When driving with the engine, the boat exhibits predictable behavior: the absence of a rigid keel is compensated by an inflatable keel (if provided in a specific configuration) or the shape of cylinders, which provides acceptable course stability. However, at high speeds with a full load, there may be a slight lewdness characteristic of flat-bottomed structures.
| Parameter | Meaning | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Total length | 335 cm | Optimal for two. |
| Width | 140-150 cm | Depends on the pressure in the cylinders |
| Load capacity | 400-450 kg | Considering the weight of the boat |
| Weight of kit | 35-40 kg | Much easier than the common analogues |
| Passenger capacity | 2 people. | Comfortable for two adults |
Effect of pressure on driving performance
Under-proven NDND cylinders cause folds on the bottom, which increases water resistance and reduces speed. Over-pumped cylinders create excessive tissue tension, making the boat too rigid and susceptible to shocks against waves.
Choice of outboard motor
The issue of engine installation Reef 335 The manufacturer usually recommends motors up to 5-8 hp Installation of a more powerful unit does not make sense due to limitations on the load capacity and design of the transom.
The optimal choice will be a two-stroke engine with a capacity of 5 hp It will provide access to plane with one person and confident movement in displacement mode with two passengers and cargo. Four-stroke analogues will also fit, but will be heavier, which is critical for a light inflatable boat.
When choosing a motor, consider the length of the lower unit. For this model, a standard lower unit (S) is usually enough, but if you plan to walk full load often, a long lower unit (L) can provide better propeller efficiency, although it will require a higher transom or overlay.
- ⚓ Recommended power: 5-8 hp. for comfortable operation.
- 🚤 Two-stroke motors are preferred because of the lower weight.
- ⚖️ Consider the weight of the engine when calculating the total load capacity of the boat.
⚠️ Warning: When installing a motor with a power of more than 5 hp, be sure to make sure that the transom of the boat is reinforced by an additional board or has factory reinforcement. A weak transom may not withstand the vibrations and thrust of a powerful engine.
Assembly, operation and storage
The process of assembling a boat with NDL is intuitive, but it requires a sequence of actions: first, the bottom is decomposed and pumped, then the cylinders, and this allows you to form the right profile of the hull. It is important to monitor the pressure in all compartments using a pressure gauge.
☑️ Boat assembly procedure
After each operation, the boat must be thoroughly washed with fresh water, especially if you have been swimming in salt water or bodies of water with abundant vegetation. The mud and sand left on the fabric work as an abrasive when folded, gradually destroying the protective layer of PVC.
Keep the boat in a dry, ventilated room, away from heating appliances and direct sunlight. It is recommended to store the product in a straightened or semi-folded form to avoid the formation of curvatures on the cloth folds for a long time.
Proper drying and storage is the key to the long service of the boat. Wet fabric in the rolled-up state is quickly covered with mold, which destroys the structure of the material from the inside.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
Can I use the Reef 335 BNDD in winter?
Using PVC boats at low temperatures is possible, but it requires extreme caution. The material in the cold bluffs and becomes brittle. Any mechanical impact, impact on the ice or sloppy movement can lead to cracks. If operation is necessary, allow the boat to warm up at room temperature before getting on the water and avoid sudden movements.
What repairs are possible in the field?
For minor puncture repairs, there are remixes that come with a kit. You can use a special lattice and glue to temporarily repair the damage. However, full-scale repairs with heating and vulcanization are best done at home. In the field, it is only important to stop the air venting to get to the base.
Do I need to register this boat with GIMS?
According to the current legislation of the Russian Federation, small vessels weighing more than 200 kg (complete with an engine) or with an engine power of more than 8 hp (for some categories) are subject to registration. Reef 335 In the basic configuration weighs much less than 200 kg, and engines up to 5-8 hp often do not require registration, in most cases registration is not required.
How is the NDNDD different from the PDD?
BND (inflatable floor) is lighter, faster to assemble and more compact in transportation. The plywood/aluminum bottom provides a stiffer pad, holds its shape better at full load, and allows higher speeds with powerful motors, but is significantly heavier and takes longer to assemble.