The inflatable watercraft market is now full of offers, but models that can combine compactness, reliability and affordable price are still in short supply. Swimmer 370 XL It is a boat that has become a hit for fishing and family water recreation in a short time, its dimensions allow three adults to comfortably accommodate, and its reinforced design gives confidence in safety even when going out on large water.
Unlike many competitors, the model was designed to accommodate real-world operating conditions in temperate latitudes, where water can be cold and waves unpredictable. High pressure inflatable floor (NDND) provides excellent performance comparable to rigid-hull counterparts, but retains the main advantage - the ability to quickly assemble and compact transportation in the trunk of a passenger car.
In this article, we will discuss in detail the design features, technical nuances and real impressions of use. Swimmer 370 XLYou will learn why this boat has become the choice of thousands of water-engines and what to look for before buying, so as not to be disappointed in the choice.
Construction and materials of the shell
The basis of durability of any boat is the materials from which it is made. Swimmer 370 XL five-layer reinforced PVC density 850 g/m2This is not just a marketing figure: this density guarantees high resistance to abrasion, exposure to fuel and ultraviolet radiation. hot-vulcanizationThis makes them stronger than the material itself.
The cylinders have a complex geometry with conical nose ends, which greatly improves germination on the wave. The inside of the cylinders is protected from pressing with special linings, which also prevent the displacement of the floorboards during intensive operation.
- 🛡️ Reliability: The dense material withstands contact with snags and rocky bottom better than standard 750 g / m2.
- 🌊 Hydrodynamics: The shape of the cylinders minimizes the resistance of water, allowing you to develop high speed even with medium-power engines.
- 🔧 Repairability: The kit is a remake, allowing you to quickly eliminate minor damage in the field.
⚠️ Warning: Despite the high strength of PVC, it is strongly advised not to leave a fully pumped boat under direct sunlight for a long time unattended.
Quality of the stitching in The Swimmer 370 XL is a high-end product, but it's still worth a visual inspection when buying it. Look for glue stains or unpatched areas, although marriage is rare. Proper fabric care will extend the product's lifespan by decades.
Features of the inflatable floor of the NDND
One of the key specifications that makes Swimmer 370 XL In contrast to the flat floors (aluminum or plywood), it uses thousands of vertical strands that connect the upper and lower surfaces. 0.8-1.0 atm The bottom becomes hard as a board.
This solution has several benefits: first, it eliminates the need to assemble and disassemble the floor, which saves time and effort; second, it makes the boat lighter because there is no heavy aluminum or plywood; third, it improves the thermal insulation - sitting or lying on the bottom is much warmer than on cold metal.
There are special provisions inside the bottom longitudinal redeemerThey work like keels, they provide stability, they don't scour side to side when they're going against wind or current, but they're very sensitive to punctures with sharp objects.
Is it possible to walk in a boat in shoes?
In boats with NDND, cruising in shoes with rigid soles (especially with spikes or heels) is highly recommended, it is better to use special soft shoes or walk barefoot so as not to damage the internal structure of the bottom.
To protect the bottom from abrasive wear, additional overhead mats are often installed in critical areas (where the fisherman's feet stand), which not only protects the material, but also creates an anti-slip coating, which is important for wet deck safety.
Technical specifications and load capacity
Model range Swimmer It's famous for its compliance, and it's 370 cm long and 176 cm wide, and it creates an ample workspace. 650 kgThis allows three adults to be seated in a full set of equipment, with the recommended power of an outboard motor varying from 5 to 15 hp.
The weight of the boat itself is about 42-45 kg, which is the average for this class, which is a trade-off between strength and mobility. To carry in disassembled form, the bags have comfortable handles, but when assembled, it is better to drag the boat along the shore with an assistant or using transom wheels.
| Parameter | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Length full, cm | 370 |
| Full width, cm | 176 |
| Load capacity, kg | 650 |
| River power, engine power, hp | 5-15 |
| Packaging weight, kg | ~44 |
Importantly, the top speed on the water is highly dependent not only on the power of the motor, but also on the load and excitement. With a 9.9 hp engine, the boat goes into plane with two passengers and a load, reaching speeds of up to 30-35 km / h.
Optimum engine power for the Swimmer 370 XL with full load - 9.9 hp Motors 5 hp are suitable only for a quiet movement without exit to planing.
Comfort and ergonomics
Convenience on the water is not a luxury, but a necessity, especially if the fishing lasts several hours. Swimmer 370 XL The developers have provided several mounting points for additional equipment. D-ring for fixing the anchor, fishing rod or safety flogging.
Seats (banks) are made of moisture-resistant plywood with soft linings, they are installed in special pockets-holders, which prevents them from slipping while moving, if necessary, the banks can be moved or removed, making space for large-sized cargo, such as anchor or catch.
- 🎣 Fishing facilities: Wide sides allow you to conveniently place gear and suck fish.
- ⚓ Anchor system: The presence of an anchor ditch on the nose makes it easier to anchor without having to bend over the side.
- 👜 Transport: Backpack bags have wide straps and a reinforced bottom, which facilitates carrying over rough terrain.
For those who plan to spend the night in a boat or just appreciate space, the lack of rigid bulkheads in the cockpite is a huge plus: flat bottom allows you to spread your sleeping bag or just stretch your legs, which is impossible in boats with transom banks of classical design.
Operation and maintenance of the boat
And Swimmer 370 XL After each trip, the boat should be rinsed with fresh water, especially if the voyage was in salt water or contaminated water bodies, and mud and silt, when dried, can become an abrasive that damages the protective layer of PVC.
Drying is a critical step, and you can't keep the boat wet or even wet, because it causes mold and breaks the adhesive layer, and you need to dry it in the shade, in the straightened form, so that air can access all the folds.
☑️ Preparing the boat for winter storage
In winter, it is better to store PVC products at a temperature of not lower than -10 ° C, although the quality material withstands short-term frosts. The main thing is not to fold or move the boat in the cold when the material becomes rigid and brittle.
⚠️ Warning: Never use aggressive solvents, gasoline or acetone to clean the boat, which can dissolve the top PVC protective layer and make the material sticky, after which it will not be possible to restore it.
Comparison with competitors and final choice
On the market. Swimmer 370 XL It competes with brands such as Flagship, Aqua and hunterCompared to them, the Swimmer often wins in price with comparable quality materials. However, some competitors may have more sophisticated cockpit ergonomics or richer out-of-the-box equipment.
If you prioritize maximum floor rigidity, the pielon versions may seem preferable, although they are heavier. But if you value speed and ease, Swimmer's NDL is a great choice. The boat is positioned as a versatile solution for a wide range of tasks.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preferences and operating conditions. The Swimmer 370 XL has established itself as a workhorse capable of withstanding heavy operation with minimal maintenance requirements. This is a reliable option for those who do not want to overpay for the brand, but require quality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take to assemble and disassemble the Swimmer 370 XL?
With experience and an electric pump, it takes about 10-15 minutes to assemble, 15-20 minutes to disassemble and pack into a bag, and 1.5-2 times more time with a hand pump.
Can I install an electric motor on this boat?
Yes, the boat's transom is reinforced and allows for both gasoline and electric motors, which is even preferable for electric motors because of the lack of vibration and the lower weight.
What type of pump is best used for pumping NDND?
Any high pressure pump (foot, electric 12V) is suitable for pumping cylinders. For pumping to the working pressure (0.2-0.25 atm), it is better to use a pump with a pressure gauge so as not to pump the cylinders.
Is there a warranty for the boat and what does it cover?
Usually manufacturers give a guarantee from 12 to 24 months for defects in materials and seams. Mechanical damages received during operation (punctures, cuts) are not covered by the warranty.