In the world of inflatable swimming aids, there are many models that try to combine compactness in folded form with space on the water. Swimmer 370 XLThis pneumatic boat attracts attention with its versatility, allowing you to explore reservoirs with equal success and go fishing in narrow ducts, but to understand whether this model of your investment is worth it, you need to examine its design in detail.
Many users confuse the actual dimensions of this model with its analog names, because the market is flooded with modifications with similar indices. work-length The decks and cylinder width are critical parameters for outboard motor selection. In this review, we're not just going to list the dry numbers from the passport, but we're going to look at the real-world experience of ownership, the hidden nuances of assembly and the behavior of the wave, and you'll learn why this boat requires careful pumping and transom selection.
If you are faced with the choice between a hard-deck flatbot and a fully inflatable option, then Swimmer 370 It's lighter than the classic kamaz, but heavier than the simple rowing boats, and understanding these differences will help you avoid frustration when you first operate, and let's dive into the technical details that define the nature of this boat.
Design features and materials of manufacture
The basis of durability of any inflatable boat is the material from which its cylinders are made. Swimmer 370 XLManufacturers most often use high-density PVC reinforced fabric. A critically important parameter is the density of the fabric, which for this model is usually 850-900 g / sq.m., which provides protection against punctures and abrasion. This density allows the boat to withstand contact with rocky bottom and sharp branches, but requires careful treatment when drying.
The design of the bottom deserves special attention, because it determines seaworthiness. Unlike simple low-pressure inflatable floor (LDPB) models, it often uses a soldering system or reinforced inflatable floor with rigid stringers, which creates a “rigid body” effect, allowing higher speeds without the effect of “slapping” along the wave.
The dashboard is another element that has been made more demanding, and it has to withstand the pull of the outboard motor and not deform under the influence of moisture. swimmer multi-layer plywood with waterproof impregnation, covered with wear-resistant varnish. The transom angle It is regulated by stops, which allows you to optimize planing for different loads.
⚠️ Warning: When buying, be sure to check the quality of the stitches on the smackboard. Even a microscopic gap between the plywood and the fabric can lead to the separation and ingress of water into the structure during prolonged use.
The fittings used in the boat also play a role. Frog or bayonet valves must provide rapid pressure relief and reliable air retention. Flying rings, hump belts and carry handles must be secured through additional pens of fabric to prevent breakage during the jerk. Swimmer 370 XL.
Overall dimensions and weight specifications
Understanding the actual dimensions is essential for transportation and storage planning. The often-stated length of 370 cm includes inflatable parts that are not involved in creating usable space. The cockpit's working area in this model usually varies between 280-300 cm, which is enough to accommodate two or three people with equipment. The width of the cylinders is about 160-170 cm, which provides good stability.
The weight of the boat assembled is a parameter that often comes as a surprise to beginners. Depending on the configuration (the presence of a hard floor, the weight of the transom, the thickness of PVC), the weight can reach 45-55 kg. Swimmer 370 XL It is not a lightweight single seat that can be thrown into the trunk of the sedan without removing the wheels, and it will require a roof of the car or a trailer, or a permanent installation on the roof in the form of an expedition trunk.
The height of the balloon also matters, especially if you plan to go out into large water. The high side (about 45-50 cm) protects against splashing and swelling, but increases sailing. This means that with a strong side wind, it will become more difficult to drive the boat and you will need a more powerful motor to fend off the demolition.
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Total length | 370 cm | Including bow and aft parts |
| Working length | 290 cm | Useful space |
| Width | 165 cm | Outward dimensions |
| Load capacity | 550 kg | Considering the weight of the boat and the motor |
| Boat weight | 48 kg | In the basic configuration |
When calculating the carrying capacity, the real payload is often less than the passport one if you plan to fish actively with a lot of equipment. Passenger capacity This is the limit of survival, not comfortable operation.
Installation and equipment options
Basic equipment Swimmer 370 XL The kit usually includes the boat itself, the bag-pack, the refit, the pump and sometimes the seats (banks). However, experienced water-engineers know that standard cans are often uncomfortable for long transitions. Replacing them with soft inflatable seats or swivel seats on the sleigh dramatically changes the level of comfort.
An important element of equipment is the availability safety-liner They allow you to attach a gear, an anchor flap or a life jacket. tent Or a running awning, which makes the boat a full camping option. swimmer It is suitable for sleeping on the water, which is highly appreciated by fishermen.
Hidden opportunities of tuning
With a special bracket on your nose, you can attach the sonar or navigator, freeing your hands, and it is also popular to install additional pockets for trifles on the inside of the cylinders.
The pump that comes with the kit is usually a foot or hand-held two-way pump, and for a boat of this size, manual pumping is a time-consuming and time-consuming process. Recommended Consider buying an electric pump with auto-stop function or a battery-powered compressor, which will save you energy before fishing and allow you to reach the required pressure faster.
For a boat with a length of 3.7 meters, the weight of the anchor should be at least 3-4 kg, and it is better to use an anchor-cat, which is easier to fold. The presence of an anchor-rip on the nose is mandatory, but its design should exclude the attachment of the rope. In some configurations, this element is made poorly and requires replacement.
Operation and selection of outboard motor
Choosing a motor for Swimmer 370 XL It's about finding the balance between speed, fuel consumption and weight on the transom, and the minimum power for a single-person plane is about 5 hp, but if you're going to go fishing together or threesome, and you're going to go out on the wave. power-optimal is considered to be a range of 9.9 - 15 hp Motors of greater power may be redundant and lead to over-consumption of fuel.
Motor weight directly affects the differentiation of the boat. Too heavy engine (over 35-40 kg) can flood the stern, and the boat will not keep its course, requiring constant movement of passengers forward. Lightweight two-stroke engines of Chinese or Japanese manufacture are perfect here. Four-stroke engines are more reliable and economical, but their weight can be critical for the inflatable hull.
☑️ Checking before getting on the water
Fuel consumption when using the engine 9.9 hp in trolling or moderate mode is about 1.5-2 liters per hour. At full gas, the consumption can increase to 3-4 liters. Swimmer 370 It's got good course stability because of the cylinder contours, but it can be a tendency to yaw at full speed when it's sideways, and that requires the operator to keep a constant eye on the course.
⚠️ Warning: Never exceed the recommended engine power specified in the data sheet. Excess power can lead to deformation of the transom, engine detachment and overturning of the boat, which is deadly at depth.
For fishing in overgrown waters, it is important to consider the length of the lower unit. A short leg can catch grass more often, a long leg can create unnecessary resistance. The standard length for such boats is "S" (short) or "L" (long), depending on the height of the transom. outboard The height also affects the speed and lack of cavitation.
Care, maintenance and storage
Durability of the boat Swimmer 370 XL It depends on how you care for it. After every trip to the water, especially salt water, the boat needs to be rinsed with fresh water. The salt, sand and silt act as an abrasive, gradually destroying the protective layer of PVC. Drying is a mandatory step before packaging, but you can not dry under the direct scorching rays of the sun, because this can lead to tissue stratification.
The best way to keep the boat straight at room temperature, if you can't, and you keep it in your bag, you have to unpack it every few months, straighten it up, and reassemble it, and that prevents it from forming crevices that can eventually become cracks. Temperature conditions storage should not fall below -20 degrees, although short-term frosts of high-quality PVC withstands.
Small punctures can be repaired by the remix, the puncture site is degreased, cleaned and sealed with a special patch of glue, it is important to use glue designed specifically for PVC, not universal compounds that can dissolve the material. Large damage requires professional repair in a hot-welding workshop.
The fittings also require attention. Valves need to be lubricated periodically with silicone to maintain the elasticity of the seals. Metal rings, if they are not made of stainless steel, can oxidize, so they should be wiped and lubricated. Regular inspection of the state of the seams and adhesives will help to identify problems at an early stage.
Comparison with competitors and final conclusions
There are many analogues on the market. Swimmer 370 XL, such as the Flagship, Hunter or Cayman series boats. swimmer But competitors may offer better-designed lear-positioning solutions, better-quality bags, or reinforced floorboards, often boiling down to the availability of service and parts in your area.
The key to choosing is value for money. If you want a reliable workhorse for fishing on weekends and you're willing to put up with some build features, this model is a great choice. It forgives mistakes for beginners and is robust enough for the harsh conditions of Russian nature. The main thing is not to save on the engine and the right pump.
The Swimmer 370 XL is the optimal balance between price and functionality for an amateur fisherman, requiring careful attention to drying and storage.
In conclusion, it is worth saying that Swimmer 370 XL It's a popular watercraft, and it's not without the disadvantages of all inflatable boats in this class, but when properly maintained, it's been a true story for years, and before you buy, make sure you can see the boat live, check the quality of the seams and the equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the maximum weight of the cargo of the Swimmer 370 XL?
Passenger load capacity is usually around 550 kg, but this is the limit value. For comfortable and safe operation, it is recommended not to exceed the load of 400 kg, including the weight of passengers, engine, fuel and equipment. Excess load reduces the height of the board above the water and reduces handling.
Can I use a boat in winter for fishing?
You can use PVC boats in winter, but with caution. The material becomes less elastic and more vulnerable to mechanical damage at low temperatures, you need to use special frost-resistant greases for valves, avoid impacts on the ice and not leave the boat in the cold inflated state for a long time unattended.
How long does it take to assemble and disassemble a boat?
With experience, assembly and disassembly take about 15-20 minutes, the first time it can take up to 40-50 minutes, and using an electric pump significantly reduces the time to prepare for descent, leaving only the time to install the seats and the motor.
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 kW (about 10.8 hp) are subject to registration. Swimmer 370 When assembled with a light engine, it is often limited to 200 kg, and engines under 9.9 hp formally require registration only if their power exceeds 8 kW, many owners do not register them. However, laws may change, and the final decision depends on the specific power of your engine and the total weight.
How to fix the boat if the remake is not going?
For repairing punctures and cuts of PVC boats, it is best to use two-component polyurethane adhesive (for example, UHU Plus Endfest 300 or specialized adhesives for PVC). The patches are cut from the same material (PVC fabric). The use of "Moments" and other household adhesives is not recommended, as they do not provide the proper elasticity and water resistance of the seam.