The modern market of inflatable floating craft is oversaturated with offers, but the model Waterman Grand 320 It's not just another inflator, it's a powerful tool for overcoming waters that balances compactness when folded and capacity on the water. Many beginners mistakenly assume that all PVC boats are the same, but the details of the design determine whether you come back with a catch and whole nerves.
In this article, we will discuss in detail the technical nuances, hidden capabilities and real performance of this model. pressure-floor (NDND) has become the standard for this class, and how to properly prepare a vessel for its first launch to avoid the typical errors, so we're not going to retell the dry numbers from the passport, but rather focus on how the boat behaves in real-world storm and calm conditions.
We're going to focus on safety and compatibility with outboard motors, and if you're not making the right engine power or not knowing the loading rules, you can make a nice walk a dangerous adventure. Waterman Grand 320 Or you already own it, this material will be a comprehensive guide to operation and modernization.
Structural features and materials of the body
The basis of durability of any PVC boat is the quality of reinforced fabric. Waterman Grand 320 It uses a five-layer high-density material that is resistant to ultraviolet light, salt water and mechanical damage. Reinforcing frame polyester filaments ensure the rigidity of the structure, allowing you to withstand significant loads without the risk of deformation of cylinders when heated in the sun.
The most important design element is the inflatable floor system, and unlike the pedal models, it uses technology. NDND (low pressure inflatable floor) with integrated stringersThis means that there are rigid tapes inside the bottom that are pulled when pumped, creating a rigid plane comparable to plywood, but without excess weight, and this technology allows you to quickly assemble and disassemble the boat without losing its driving qualities.
⚠️ Attention: When pumping the bottom of the NDND, carefully monitor the pressure. Pumping in the heat can cause internal bulkheads to rupture, and failure to pump will make the bottom "bulky" and slow down the speed.
The boats are equipped with a bolt along the entire perimeter, which greatly simplifies mooring and protects the cylinders from abrasion on the berth or on the sides of other vessels. Skeggi, located in the aft part, act as a keel, improving the course stability and protecting the bottom from impacts on the rocky bottom when landing.
When transporting a boat in the trunk of a car, always use a protective awning or dense fabric to ensure that dust and dirt from the mats do not damage the valves or PVC fabric.
Technical specifications and load capacity
Dimensions of the model Waterman Grand 320 Optimized for use by two adults with a full set of gear, 3.20 meters long, comfortable on the cans, without interfering with each other when rowing or driving the engine, and the width of the cockpit provides sufficient stability, which is critical when fishing standing or in windy weather.
Consider the detailed parameters that affect the choice of equipment and engine, and understanding these numbers will help you avoid overload, which is the main cause of loss of handling.
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Full length | 320 cm | Including inflatable tubes |
| Full width | 145 cm | Maximum cylinder width |
| Load capacity | 450 kg | Including boat and motor weight |
| Passenger capacity | 2 people. | Recommended for comfort |
| Boat weight | 38 kg | Fully complete. |
It should be noted that the declared load capacity of 450 kg is a theoretical maximum. For comfortable and safe operation, especially on the wave, it is recommended not to exceed the load of 350-380 kg. This will ensure a high board above the water and reduce the risk of overflow.
The engine compartment is reinforced by a transom board, which is rigidly fixed in cylinders. Tranza It can withstand engines with a capacity of up to 5 hp, but the optimal traction for this length of the body is considered to be a range of 3.5-4 hp Installation of a more powerful engine is possible, but will require serious modernization and may be unsafe.
Comfort and ergonomics on board
Boat ergonomics Waterman Grand 320 The banks (seats) are made of water-resistant plywood with anti-slip coating, they are installed in fixed slots (litres), which excludes their displacement during movement. However, for many users, regular seats seem stiff, so experienced boaters often recommend the use of additional inflatable cushions or folding chairs.
The inner space of the cockpit is large enough to accommodate a tackle box, sonar and thermos without taking up space for the legs. rod-drive It allows you to control the engine while sitting on the aft bank, which is especially convenient when trolling or catching in overgrown places where accurate maneuvering is required.
For storage of small things in the nose there is a tension cable, where you can attach a sealer or anchor, and on the sides there are convenient handles for carrying, which are made of durable material and are securely sewn to cylinders, bearing the weight of a fully equipped boat.
The secret of comfort
Many owners install an additional PVC pocket on the bow of the boat to store small things so that they do not roll along the bottom and do not interfere with the legs.
Preparation for descent and assembly
Assembly process Waterman Grand 320 It takes an average of 15 to 20 minutes, if you have experience, and the first thing you do is to spread the boat on a flat surface, clearing the area of sharp objects, branches and stones, and even a small pebble under the bottom can cause a puncture during pumping.
The order of pumping cylinders is important for the correct geometry of the shell. It is recommended to first pump the bow and aft, then the sides, and only lastly the bottom of the BND. The pressure in the cylinders should be 0.2 atm, and in the bottom - up to 0.6-0.8 atm (depending on the air temperature).
After assembly, check the tightness of all valves. It is not uncommon for sand to enter the valve thread, which prevents closeness. Wipe the valve with a clean cloth before installing the plugs.
☑️ Checklist before getting on the water
If you pump the boat in the shade or indoors and then take it out in the open sun, the pressure may exceed the permissible limits, in such cases, you need to blow a little air to avoid rupturing the seams.
Operation and performance
On the water. Waterman Grand 320 The flat bottom makes it easy to glid even with low-power engines at minimal load, but at full speed, the boat can show a tendency to yaw (wagging with its nose) in the side wind, which is typical for flat-bottomers.
To improve the performance of many owners set kielson Or they use inflatable lytras cylinders, if the design allows them to be modified, which helps to cut the wave better and reduces the shock load on the body when it moves against the wave.
⚠️ Warning: When you go on a single-passenger plane, move closer to the center or nose to lift the transom. Excessive submersion of the stern reduces speed and increases fuel consumption.
The model's resistance to wave is medium. It's very good at keeping the wave up to 0.3-0.4 meters, but in the larger excitement of being small and lightweight, the boat starts to throw a lot, and in such conditions you have to slow down and lag towards the wave or at an angle of 45 degrees.
The optimal driving mode for the Waterman Grand 320 is a transition mode or plane at low speed, which saves engine life and provides comfort.
Care, storage and possible tuning
And Waterman Grand 320 It's been in service for years, and it needs to be properly cared for, and after every fishing, especially in salt water, the boat needs to be washed with fresh water and thoroughly dried before packing, and keeping a wet boat rolled up causes mold and breaks the glue seams.
Tuning of this model often starts with the installation of transom wheels, which makes it much easier to move a motorized boat along the shore, also popular installation of sonars, holders for spinning and awnings from the sun, it is not superfluous to purchase a repair kit with patches and glue, because punctures are accidental.
For storage, choose a dry, cool place that is protected from direct sunlight. It is best to keep the boat in limbo or deployed, but if this is not possible, make sure that no cloth cloth is formed in the folds.
lifehack
Lubricate the valves with silicone lubrication before long storage so that the rubber seals do not dry out and the valves do not acidify.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use the Waterman Grand 320 in winter?
Using PVC boats in subzero temperatures is possible, but requires extreme caution. The material in the cold swells and becomes brittle. Any sudden movement or impact can lead to cracks. If you plan to go fishing in winter, use the boat only in calm weather, do not drop heavy objects and try not to fold it in the cold.
Which glue is best for puncture repair?
For repairs. Waterman Grand 320 The best two-component polyurethane adhesive (e.g. 990I or analog) provides an elastic and durable seam that withstands strain. Chloroprene-based adhesives (rubber) are also suitable, but they drier longer and have a pungent smell.
Do I need to register this boat with GIMS?
According to the legislation of the Russian Federation, small vessels weighing more than 200 kg (together with the engine) are subject to registration. Waterman Grand 320 It's about 38 kg. Even with a 20 kg motor and gear, you're not likely to exceed the 200 kg limit. However, if you install a heavy motor and a load, the total weight may exceed the threshold, and registration will become mandatory.
How to properly store the boat: inflated or deflated form?
Long-term storage (between seasons) is best carried out in a partially pumped state (0.2-0.3 atm) in a warm room to avoid cloth cloth cloth cloth cloth cloth. Short-term storage (a week or two) is allowed in a deflated, dry and clean bag.