Boat. Zodiac 340 It's one of the most popular models of mid-range inflatable vessels, combining compactness, reliability and versatility. Zodiac (includes in the group) Zodiac Nautic) has long been a benchmark for amateur and semi-professional exploitation. 3.4 meters and load capacity up to 600 kgThe boat is suitable for fishing on lakes, and for active recreation on the river or the sea in choppy conditions before the sea. 2 points.
In this article, we will discuss specification, design features, pros and cons of the model, as well as give practical advice on the choice of equipment and care. uniqueness Zodiac 340, which distinguish it from competitors - for example, a patented system for fastening the transom AluFloor+ and reinforced PVC material Strongan Duo densely 1100 g/m2If you are faced with a choice between this boat and its analogues (for example, Bombard Commando C3 or Honda Honwave T38), the material will help to make an informed decision.
Technical specifications Zodiac 340What you need to know before buying
Model Zodiac 340 belongs to the class of inflatable boats with a hard bottom (type) RIB — Rigid Inflatable BoatIts dimensions and weight allow the boat to be transported on the roof of a passenger car or in a trailer, and the assembly / disassembly takes no more than 15-20 minutes And the key parameters are:
- 📏 Length/width:
3.4 m/1.68 m(inflated state). - ⚖️ Weight: from
48 kg(basic equipment) up to65 kg(with a hard bottom and a transom). - 👥 Passenger capacity: before
5 people(recommended maximum -4for comfortable use). - 🔋 Maximum engine power:
20 hp(for trans-models). - 🌊 Category of swimming:
C(coastal waters, excitement before)2 points).
Particular attention is paid to the material of the body. Zodiac 340 made five-layered PVC Strongan Duo It's a reinforcement mesh that's resistant to puncture, abrasion and UV radiation, and by comparison, most budget boats don't have more than a density of material. 750–900 g/m2It's also coming out. pressure-valve (system) Zodiac AirValve) which prevent spontaneous air intake.
Packages and Options: How to Choose the Best Version
Brand Zodiac It offers several options for model configuration 340, which differ in the type of bottom, the presence of a transom and additional accessories.
| Completement | Type of bottom | Tranza | Max, engine power. | Weight (kg) | Price (from) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zodiac 340 Air | Inflatable (kesson) | No. | — | 48 | 180 000 ₽ |
| Zodiac 340 AluFloor | Removable aluminum | Optionally. | 10 hp. | 55 | 220 000 ₽ |
| Zodiac 340 Pro | Hard (aluminum) | Yes. | up to 20 hp | 65 | 280 000 ₽ |
| Zodiac 340 Open | Inflatable | No. | — | 45 | 160 000 ₽ |
For fishermen and hunters, the best option is the version. Pro And with a hard bottom and a throng for an outboard motor, it's going to be more stable and manageable, and for those who are planning to use a boat to relax in calm waters, it's going to be great. Air or Open (they're lighter and cheaper) Important: any version comes with a basic package. oar, pump, repair kit and bag for transportation.
⚠️ Attention: When buying a transom version, check the GIMS certificate of conformity. Some dealers sell boats with gray transes that have not been officially certified in Russia.
Comparison with analogues: Zodiac 340 vs Bombard Commando C3 vs Honda Honwave T38
To objectively assess the benefits Zodiac 340Compare it to the two main competitors in the long boat segment. 3.2–3.5 m:
- 🔹 Bombard Commando C3 (France):
- ✅ Pros: stronger material (
1200 g/m2), high load capacity (700 kg). - ❌ Cons: heavier (severe)
70 kgmore expensive20–30%.
- ✅ Pros: stronger material (
- 🔹 Honda Honwave T38 (Japan):
- ✅ Pros: easy (slight)
42 kg), compact in folded form, reliable seams. - ❌ Cons: thin PVC (subject to the
850 g/m2), maximum engine power,15 hp.
- ✅ Pros: easy (slight)
Main advantage Zodiac 340 — balance of price and qualityIt's cheaper. Bombardbut stronger and more versatile HondaBesides, you Zodiac We have a better network of service centers in Russia, which makes it easier to repair and buy spare parts. regular operation with motor, Zodiac 340 Pro It's the best choice.
When comparing boats, pay attention to the warrantyUgh. Zodiac he composes 3 years PVC material and 5 years at the seams, whereas Honda - just 2 years on the whole boat.
Operation and care: how to extend the life of the boat
Average service life Zodiac 340 with proper care, it is 10-15 yearsHowever, many owners experience premature wear due to errors in operation.
- Wash and dry: After each trip, wash the boat. freshwater Dry in the shade, and the direct sunlight destroys PVC.
- Storage: Keep the boat in a folded state. dry-place (temperature not higher)
+25°CAvoid contact with oils, gasoline and chemicals. - Puncture repair: For minor injuries, use repair-pack Zodiac glue-filled
Tear-Aid Type ALarger gaps (more than that)5cm) shall eliminate the service centre.
Pay special attention They need to be cleaned of sand and dirt after each use and lubricated with silicone lubricant. 1 time in seasonIf the valve starts to poison the air, it can be replaced by yourself (spare valves). Zodiac stand up 1 500 ₽).
Check the pressure in the cylinders (norm: 0.25-0.3 bar)|
Make sure the valves are tightly closed.
Check the bottom for sharp objects |
Check the transmunost fastening (if any)|
Bring a repair kit with you.
⚠️ Attention: Never use compressors with a higher pressure for pumping a boat.0.3 barThe pumped cylinders can burst in the sun due to the expansion of air. Zodiac 340 —0.2-0.25 bar.
Registration in GIMS: is it necessary for Zodiac 340?
From 2021, new rules for registration of small vessels are in force in Russia. Zodiac 340 requirements depend on engine-power:
- 🚤 Without motor or with motor to
5 hp: Registration is not required, but you must have it with you. boat-work (checks, certificates). - ⚡ With a motor.
5-20 hp.: Registration in GIMS and receipt boat registration certificateThe cost of the procedure is about5 000 ₽. - 📝 Documents for registration: passport, TIN, technical data sheet of the boat, receipt of payment of the fee.
The registration process takes 10–14 daysAfter the submission of documents, the boat is assigned tail-roomwhich must be applied to the body (the font size is not less than) 10cmDetailed instructions can be found on the website GIME.
What happens if you don’t register a motorized boat >5 hp?
The penalty for operating an unregistered vessel is 1 000–1 500 ₽ 11.8.1 of the Administrative Code, if you violate the boat again, you can confiscate the boat, and without registration you will not be able to apply for insurance on the boat, which can cause problems in case of accidents on the water.
Reviews of owners: real experience of operation
Analysis of feedback on the sites (Yandex. Market., Fishki.net, Drive2) shows that Zodiac 340 average 4.7 out of 5 Among the main advantages of the users distinguish:
- ✅ Strength: “No punctures in 5 years, despite frequent stone walks” (Ivan, Moscow).
- ✅ Sustainability: "A wave to
1 pointBehaves predictably, does not burrow his nose (Alexey, St. Petersburg). - ✅ Ease of assembly: "One man gathers for
10 minutes.(Dmitriy, Novosibirsk).
Among the disadvantages, the most often mentioned are:
- ❌ Parts price: "Repackage stands
3 000 ₽And the Chinese boats,500 ₽(Sergei, Yekaterinburg). - ❌ Weight: “The hard bottom version is a bit heavy for one person” (Oleg, Krasnodar).
Interesting fact: many owners note that after 2-3 years The PVC material becomes less elastic, but this does not affect the tightness. spray-proof (for example, 303 Aerospace Protectant).
Zodiac 340 It's one of the few boats in its class that retains market value when resold, and in 3-4 years, it can be sold for a small amount of money. 60–70% The price is lower than the Chinese price, while the price is lower. 50% cost.
Tuning and accessories: how to improve Zodiac 340
Even the basic equipment Zodiac 340 It allows you to install additional equipment for comfort and safety, and here are the most popular improvements:
| Accessory | Appointment | Cost (from) | Complexity of installation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anchor Danforth (3kg) | Holding the course | 2 500 ₽ | Easy. |
| echoer Garmin Striker 4 | Fish search, cartography | 18 000 ₽ | Medium |
| The hinged transom Zodiac | Installation of the motor to 15 hp | 12 000 ₽ | Difficult (requires drilling) |
| tent Bimini | Sun protection | 8 000 ₽ | Easy. |
For fishermen, installation will be relevant fishing-rod (for example, Scottyand gear-makerThose who often go to sea are advised to install navigational lights (You need to swim in the dark).
⚠️ Attention: When installing a transom for an outboard motor power 15-20 hp. Make sure to reinforce the bottom of the boat with additional stringers, otherwise the hull can deform at high speeds.
FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions
Can we set it on Zodiac 340 25 hp engine?
No, the maximum power allowed for this model is 20 hpInstalling a more powerful motor will lead to:
- Lose the warranty.
- Increased wear of the transom and bottom.
- Risk of high-speed rollover.
If you want a more powerful engine, consider the model. Zodiac 420.
Which pump is best used for pumping?
Best options:
- Hand pump Zodiac HP: It is included, reliable, but requires effort.
- Electric pump Sevylor 12V: pump up the boat
5-7 minutesIt's from the lighter.
Don’t use cheap Chinese pumps – they often break down and can damage the valves.
How many people can be accommodated in Zodiac 340 15 hp engine?
Technically, the boat is designed to 5 peoplebut with a motor 15 hp comfortable loading. 3 adults + Excessive loading leads to:
- Speed reduction on
30–40%. - Higher fuel consumption.
- Risk of flooding in choppy conditions.
What oil to use for the engine on Zodiac 340?
For two-stroke motors (e.g., Yamaha 15FMHS) class oil is suitable TC-W3 (for example, Motul Outboard Tech 2TFor four-stroke (e.g., Honda BF20) — 10W-40 or 15W-40 (for example, Liqui Moly Marine).
Never use car oil – it is not designed to work in an aqueous environment and can cause the engine to fail.
Can I keep a boat on the balcony in the winter?
You can, but only if you have a balcony. glazed and heated (temperature not lower) +5°CWhen stored in an unheated space:
- PVC is becoming fragile.
- The glue at the seams can lose elasticity.
- The risk of mold is increasing.
The best solution is dry-room Or a specialized heated cover.