Rigid-hulled boat: what are they, types, how to choose

Rigid-hull boats are made of aluminum, PVC material or wood. There are combination RIB boats, which have a rigid bottom and inflatable sides. The advantage of rigid-hulled boats is durability when used for a long time. They are always ready to go sailing. You do not need a long preparation of the boat.

Aluminum boats

The vessel is made entirely of lightweight aluminum metal. These boats are fitted with a powerful motor so that it can propel the rather heavy hull. Aluminum holds up well in the water due to the low density of the metal alloy. If the hull of the boat has air chambers, it will not go down, even if it is filled with water.

Aluminum boats can be designed for different capacities: from 1 to 4 people and more. The main inconvenience in transportation, because the size of such a boat can not be reduced. They are not collapsible.

PVC boats

PVC boats are made of durable plastic, which holds its shape. The advantage is the low weight and the possibility of disassembly in some models. It's better to choose reinforced PVC boats. They are more durable and last longer.

However, PVC boats get damaged from hitting the bottom, rocks or snags. You need to choose your swimming spot carefully. It is also important not to leave the plastic boat in the water in late fall. If the body of water near the shore freezes, it can damage the hull of the boat.

Wooden boats

The advantage of wooden boats is the absolute unsinkability. A small vessel made of wood can float through thickets of reeds. The boat is not damaged by snags or the bottom of the reservoir. The disadvantage of a wooden boat is its short lifespan. The average lifespan is 8 years. Then you will need to repair or replace the boat.

RIB boats

RIB boats with inflatable sides and an overhead rigid bottom have these advantages:

• An aluminum or fiberglass keel and rigid bottom increase the boat's running characteristics.
• The inflatable cylinders are made in the form of separate compartments. This increases safety. If one balloon gets damaged, the other stays filled up and keeps the boat afloat.
• Most RIB models have a double bottom, filled with water-repellent foam. Thanks to this the boat runs quietly.
• High stability - RIB boats do not roll over during difficult maneuvers. She is easy to steer, even at high speed.
• Some models can be extended in length to accommodate more passengers.
• On the RIB boat you can install a steering wheel, a seat. This increases comfort and makes it easier to steer the boat.

Because boats with a rigid-bottom overhead have these properties, they are often used by lifeguards. The minus is the difficulty in transporting the boat. It cannot be folded up compactly because of the rigid elements. However, you can deflate the cylinders, which will reduce its volume, and disassemble the other parts. It is important to keep in mind that this is quite a complicated process.

When choosing a rigid-hulled boat, pay attention to several factors. Does the boat need to be transported frequently? If so, choose a RIB or small aluminum boat. Another criterion is capacity and carrying capacity. The higher these figures, the heavier the boat.

Hard-hulled boats are especially suitable for those who live near a body of water and can store the boat on the shore, in a boathouse or in a shed. If you need to take the boat to the pond, you can't do without a truck with a roomy trunk or trailer. Then there will be no difficulties with its transportation.