Choosing a boat for fishing or resting on the water always involves an analysis of many factors, among which reliability, capacity and cost occupy the leading positions. Swimmer 370 It has proven to be an affordable option for beginners and experienced water-engineers, and it attracts attention for its simple design and adaptability to different operating conditions in medium-handed water bodies.
The 370 design in question indicates the overall length of the hull, which makes it a medium-sized boat capable of carrying two or three people with confidence. bottom This model makes transportation much easier, allowing you to fold the product into a compact case, and it is the balance between load capacity and mobility that makes this product popular in the market.
In this article we will discuss in detail the technical nuances, features of materials and practical aspects of use. Swimmer 370Understanding the specifics of the design will help you make an informed decision about the purchase or properly operate an existing swimmer, extending its life.
Structural features and materials of the body
The basis of durability of any inflatable boat is the quality of the material used. Swimmer 370 reinforced PVC (polyvinyl chloride), which is highly resistant to mechanical damage and ultraviolet radiation, the density of tissue, as a rule, is from 750 to 850 g / sq. m, which provides the necessary margin of safety when in contact with rocky bottom or snags.
The design of the cylinders provides for independent compartments, which is a critical safety element. In the case of a puncture of one of the cylinders, the rest will maintain the buoyancy of the vessel, allowing the crew to safely reach the shore. Welds are made using modern technology to ensure that the joints are leakproof even at significant temperature changes.
⚠️ Warning: Do not leave a fully pumped boat in direct sunlight for long periods of time unattended. The air pressure inside the cylinders rises when heated, which can cause seams to rupture or deform the structure.
Special attention should be paid to the system of strengthening the most vulnerable places: additional protective belts are often installed in the bow and along the sides, which take the brunt of the mooring. The Swimmer 370 model uses enhanced keel protection, which allows the boat to be used in shallow water with the risk of contact with the bottom relief.
Types of bottom and influence on driving performance
One of the key factors that determine the behavior of a boat on the water is the type of bottom. Swimmer 370 Most often, it is equipped with a low pressure inflatable floor (LDPB) or a hard plywood/aluminium plywood bottom, each of which has its own advantages and disadvantages that affect the final choice of the user.
The inflatable floor provides maximum comfort when in a boat, as it absorbs shocks against a wave, and it also allows you to quickly assemble and disassemble the boat without having heavy elements. rigidity such a bottom is lower, which can affect the speed of planing when using powerful motors.
The hard floorboard floor variant (often aluminum or plywood) creates a stiffer body that holds its shape better at high speeds. boat-engine And we can go into glidering with less load, but it takes more time and more physical effort to build it.
When choosing between types of bottom, you also need to consider the way you store and transport it. If you don't have a spacious garage or a large car, the inflatable floor is the only solution. For those who value performance above assembly speed, the option with rigid elements is preferable.
Equipment and ergonomics of internal space
The interior of the boat Swimmer 370 The width of the cockpit allows for comfortable accommodation for anglers with fishing rods or for recreational guests with the necessary equipment, and ergonomics is complemented by the presence of inflatable seats (cans) that can be moved along the sides to balance the vessel.
The standard equipment usually includes:
- 🚣♂️ inflatable tubes with pump valves
- ⚓ Trancing board for motor fastening
- 🛶 Oars included (often collapsible)
- 🎒 Backpack bag for storage and carrying
The boat's trawler is made of moisture-resistant plywood and protected by a material layer that prevents the engine fastener from abrading. The model's load capacity allows for a significant supply of equipment, which is especially true for multi-day fishing expeditions. It is important to distribute the weight correctly so as not to disturb the weight. centre-up boat.
For ease of movement on water, the package may contain oars with plastic or aluminum blades, although to fully use the potential. Swimmer 370 Motor installation is recommended, oars are a mandatory safety requirement and are often necessary for a quiet approach to the fishing site.
☑️ Checking the completeness before buying
Performance and load capacity
The technical parameters of the boat directly affect its behavior on the water and the safety of operation. Swimmer 370 It has optimal dimensions that allow it to feel confident both in calm lakes and on rivers with moderate currents. Below is a table with the main specifications, which can vary depending on the year of release and the specific modification.
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Full length | 370 cm | Overall size |
| Width | 165-170 cm | Depends on the pressure. |
| Load capacity | 650 kg | Including boat weight |
| Passenger capacity | 3 people. | Recommended 2+1 |
| Engine power | 15 hp. | Optimum 9.9bhp. |
Recommended capacity outboard This model is 5 to 15 horsepower, and if you install a higher power engine, you can overload the transom and balance it out, which is not safe, and many users consider 9.9 hp engines to be the best choice, which provide a steady getting on plane with one or two passengers.
The operating pressure in cylinders is usually about 0.25 atmospheres, pressure control is carried out using a pressure gauge, which is often included or purchased separately, and compliance with the temperature regime of operation is also important: the material can become less elastic in severe frost or too soft in the heat.
Effects of Temperature on Pressure
If the air temperature rises by 10 degrees Celsius, the pressure in the cylinders can increase by about 0.02-0.03 atmosphere, so a boat pumped in a warm room in the summer sun must be hoisted to avoid rupturing the seams.
Assembly, storage and maintenance
Long life of the boat Swimmer 370 After each operation, especially in salt water or contaminated water bodies, the product must be thoroughly washed with fresh water and dried. Keeping a wet boat in a rolled-up state inevitably leads to mold and the destruction of the fabric base.
The assembly and disassembly process should be performed on a clean surface to avoid abrasive particles (sand, stones) between the layers of the material. When folding, it is recommended not to overbend the material sharply in the same places, but to change the fold line from time to time, this will prevent cracks in the folds.
- 🧼 Wash the boat with a soft sponge using special PVC products
- ☀️ Dry the product in the shade, avoiding direct sunlight
- 🔧 Regularly check the tightening of the valves and the integrity of the fittings
- 📦 Store in straightened or freely rolled at a temperature of -20 to +40 C
⚠️ Attention: To clean PVC materials, it is strictly forbidden to use solvents, acetone, gasoline or aggressive household chemicals, which dissolve the protective layer and make the material brittle.
Regular maintenance also includes checking the seals of the valves. If you notice that the boat has started to deflate faster than usual, use a soap solution to find the leak site. Minor damage is easily repaired with a remix that should always be in the boat bag.
Before long winter storage, dry the boat completely and sprinkle it slightly with talc to prevent the material's internal surfaces from sticking together.
Comparison with analogues and final conclusions
In the market of inflatable boats model Swimmer 370 The main competitors are the Flagship, Hunter and Mnev series, and the main advantage of the model in question is often the ratio of price to quality, as well as the presence of a reinforced keel in the basic configuration.
Compared to the cheaper ones, Swimmer It often wins as fittings and density of PVC used. However, inferior to premium brands in technology (for example, the lack of inflatable keel-sonic in some versions), it remains a workhorse for a wide range of users, and is chosen by those who seek reliability without overpaying for the brand.
The Swimmer 370 is the best choice for amateur anglers looking for a balance between affordable price, good payload capacity and ease of operation.
In conclusion, it is worth noting that this model requires careful attention during the initial assembly and pumping phase. Proper preparation for the season and compliance with the rules of operation will allow you to enjoy water walks and fishing for many years. Swimmer 370 suitable for both quiet fishing and active rest with the whole family.
Can I use the Swimmer 370 in winter?
Using PVC boats at low temperatures is possible, but it requires extreme caution. The material in the cold swells and loses its elasticity, becoming brittle. Any mechanical impact or fall can lead to cracks. If necessary, use the boat carefully, avoid impacts on the ice and keep it warm until you are launched.
Which glue is best for repairing the Swimmer 370?
To repair PVC boats, you need to use a specialized polyurethane adhesive designed specifically for this material. chloroprene-based adhesives or universal "Moments" may not ensure proper sealability and durability of the seam, especially under load and on water. Be sure to degrease the surface before gluing.
How long does it take to build a boat with a hard bottom?
Primary assembly of the boat Swimmer 370 With a floorboard floor, it can take 20 to 40 minutes, because you need to install stringers and secure sections of the floor. With experience, the time is reduced to 10-15 minutes. The inflatable floor option (BBV) is assembled much faster in 5-10 minutes, because it only requires pumping cylinders.
Do I need to register this boat with GIMS?
According to the current legislation of the Russian Federation, boats with a mass in running order of more than 200 kg or with an engine power of more than 8 kW (about 10.8 hp) are subject to registration. Swimmer 370 significantly less than 200 kg, it is subject to registration only in the case of installing a motor with a capacity of more than 10.8 hp However, the rules may change, so the current information should be clarified in the local offices of the GIMS.