Inflatable Boat Seating: Installing A Seat Securely

Inflatable boats are a fun way to get out on the water, but they can be unstable and uncomfortable. A good seating arrangement can make all the difference.

Inflatable boats can be fitted with a range of seating options, from simple wooden or plastic benches to elaborate, shock-absorbing seats. Some boats have seats that hang from special patches fastened to the tubes, while others have seats that rest on the floor or tubes. Seats can also be custom-built, like the one described in a post on Instructables, which includes storage and a trolling motor battery.

For those who want to buy a seat, there are many options available on Amazon, including inflatable seats, seats with backrests, and seats with storage. BoatsToGo also offers an adjustable aluminium frame-seating platform that fits most inflatable boats.

So, whether you're looking for a simple, affordable option or a more luxurious seating experience, there are plenty of ways to put a seat in an inflatable boat.

Building a custom seat cushion

Planning and Materials

First, you will need to gather your materials. For this project, you will need a piece of plywood, vinyl fabric, and foam. These items can usually be found at your local hardware store or big-box retailer.

Before purchasing your materials, it is important to measure the space in your boat where you plan to place the seat cushion. This will ensure that your custom cushion fits perfectly. Take measurements for the length, width, and height of the desired cushion.

Assembly

Once you have your materials and measurements, you can begin assembling your custom seat cushion:

• Cut the Plywood: Using your measurements, cut the plywood to the desired size for your seat cushion. Sand the edges to ensure they are smooth and free of splinters.
• Attach the Foam: Use an adhesive or spray glue to attach the foam to the plywood. Ensure the foam is secure and covers the entire surface of the plywood.
• Cover with Vinyl Fabric: Place the vinyl fabric over the foam and plywood, centering it to ensure equal coverage on all sides. Secure the fabric in place using a heavy-duty staple gun.
• Finish the Edges: To create a neat finish, fold the edges of the vinyl fabric underneath the plywood and staple them in place. You can also add a trim or edging for a more polished look.

Installation

Now that your custom seat cushion is assembled, you can install it in your inflatable boat. This process will depend on the design of your boat and the type of seat you have created. Here are some common methods for installing boat seats:

• Hanging Seat: Inflatable boats often have special patches or attachments for hanging seats. You can use these to secure your custom seat cushion, ensuring that it is properly balanced and will not tip or shift while in use.
• Seating Area: Some inflatable boats have designated seating areas with built-in features, such as channels or rails, to attach seats. You can utilize these features to secure your custom seat cushion in place.
• Glue or Adhesive: For more permanent installations, you can use marine-grade glue or adhesive to attach your custom seat cushion directly to the floor or sides of the boat.

Maintenance and Care

To ensure the longevity of your custom seat cushion, proper care and maintenance are important:

• Regular Cleaning: Clean your seat cushion regularly, especially after exposure to saltwater or harsh weather conditions. Use mild soap and water, and ensure it is thoroughly dried before storing.
• Sun Protection: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause fading and deterioration of the vinyl fabric and foam. Consider using a seat cover or storing your boat in a shaded area when not in use.
• Storage: If you plan to store your boat for extended periods, remove the seat cushion and store it in a cool, dry place. This will help maintain its shape and prevent mould or mildew growth.

By following these steps, you can create a custom seat cushion that improves your comfort and enjoyment while out on the water in your inflatable boat.

Using a seating frame

Seating frames for inflatable boats are a great way to enhance your boating experience, providing both comfort and support. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to install and use a seating frame in your inflatable boat:

Choosing the Right Seating Frame

First, you'll need to select an appropriate seating frame for your boat. There are various options available, such as the adjustable aluminium frame-seating platform offered by BoatsToGo, which offers a significant upgrade in comfort compared to a regular plywood bench. This particular frame features swivel seating and back support, allowing you to enjoy your ride and control your outboard engine with ease.

Gathering Materials and Tools

Before you begin the installation process, ensure you have all the necessary materials and tools. For the BoatsToGo adjustable seating frame, you will need the frame itself, a boat seat pedestal, a swivel base, a fishing chair, and stainless steel mounting hardware. The boat seat pedestal can be purchased at various retail stores, such as Kmart, Wal-Mart, or Outdoor World. A swivel base typically costs around $8, while fishing chair prices can range from $20 to $45, depending on the desired comfort level.

Installation Process

Now, let's go through the installation process:

• Deflate the tubes: Start by deflating the tubes of your inflatable boat.
• Place the platform inside the boat: Position the seating platform inside the boat.
• Adjust the components: Push the adjustable components away from each other until the outer sides of the aluminium frame tubes touch the inside of the boat tubes.
• Tighten the screws: Once the frame is in the desired position, tighten the screws to secure it in place.
• Inflate the boat tubes: After tightening the screws, inflate the boat tubes to squeeze the seating platform firmly between the tubes.
• Mount the seat: For boats with plywood floors, the platform will rest on the stringers. Now, mount your chosen boat seat onto the platform.
• Secure with bolts: To ensure stability, use bolts with round heads, inserting them from the bottom up. This will prevent the bolts from scratching the floor.

Additional Tips

• The seating frame can be adjusted to fit different boat sizes. It is compatible with various boat models, including Saturn and Azzurro Mare, and can accommodate air deck or hard deck boats.
• For boats with air deck models, the seating frame installation may vary slightly. Refer to the product instructions or seek guidance from the manufacturer.
• To make assembly and disassembly easier, it is recommended to use WD40.
• When inserting or removing the C-frame, hold both hands at the insertion points and move it inside or outside in equal distances to avoid getting stuck.
• You can also convert the single platform into a central console by welding an L-shaped handle to support a steering system.

By following these steps and tips, you can successfully install and use a seating frame in your inflatable boat, enhancing your comfort and enjoyment on the water.

Installing a floorboard

Materials and Tools:

• Drop cloth or cardboard for tracing the floor area.
• Rigid materials for the floor such as plywood, PVC, or marine-grade plywood. Plywood is a cost-effective option, with 1/2 inch thickness providing better stability than 1/4 inch.
• Primer (undercoat) and optional paint. Anti-slip deck paint is recommended if painting.
• Carpeting and adhesive (optional). Indoor/outdoor carpet and adhesive are ideal for UV and moisture resistance.
• Foam tube insulators to protect the boat from the floorboard edges.
• Strut channels or jointing strips to join floor pieces together (optional).
• Tools: electric hand saw, sandpaper or electric sander, electric drill, wood hole saw, paintbrush, trowel/spatel/putty knife.

Steps to Install a Floorboard:

Step 1: Measurements and Tracing

First, inflate your boat and turn it upside down. Use a drop cloth or cardboard to trace the floor area by stretching it onto the boat and marking the outline of the floor. Cut out the tracing to create a template. Double-check its accuracy by placing it in the boat right-side up; it should fit snugly between the side tubes and inflated floor.

Step 2: Cut and Prepare the Plywood

Place the floor template on the plywood and secure it with tape or clips. Trace the outline onto the plywood, then cut out the floor using a hand saw or electric hand saw. To ensure the boat is protected from splinters, sand the edges of the plywood until they are smooth. If desired, cut the plywood into 2 or 3 pieces for easier storage and transportation.

Step 3: Prime and Paint (optional)

To waterproof the plywood and prevent warping and rotting, apply a waterproof wood primer. Apply 1-2 coats on each side and let it dry. If desired, paint the floor with non-slip deck paint.

Step 4: Carpeting (optional)

If you choose to carpet your floor, lay the plywood on the indoor/outdoor carpet and mark the edges. Cut the carpet to shape, then spread carpet adhesive onto the plywood and place the carpet, pressing evenly to remove wrinkles. Let both sides dry for a day.

Step 5: Install Pipe Insulators

Fit foam pipe insulators around the edges of the floorboard to protect the boat from the wood and to help keep the floor in place. You can use glue or duct tape to secure the insulators, or drill holes and use plastic cable ties.

Step 6: Assemble and Install the Floor

If you've cut your floor into multiple pieces, you can use jointing strips or strut channels to join them together. Place the wood floor onto the inflated floor, adding jointing strips between the pieces if needed. Inflate the rest of the boat, ensuring the tubes inflate over the new floor.

Attaching a seat to the floor rails

To attach a seat to the floor rails, you will need to purchase or build the seat you want to install. If you are building your own seat, you can use materials such as plywood, vinyl fabric, and foam, which can be found at most hardware stores.

Once you have your seat, you will need to acquire the necessary hardware for installation. This may include items such as bolts, washers, lock washers, and nuts. The type and size of hardware will depend on the specific seat you are installing and the construction of your boat. It is important to use stainless steel hardware to prevent corrosion.

Before beginning the installation, carefully plan the placement of your seat, ensuring that it will not obstruct any other components or interfere with the operation of the boat. If you are installing a swivel seat, you will need to account for the range of motion when determining the placement.

To attach the seat, start by drilling holes in the floor rails at the marked locations. Insert bolts through the holes and secure them with washers and nuts. Tighten the bolts securely, but be careful not to over-tighten as this may damage the floor rails or the seat.

Finally, place the seat on the floor rails and attach it using the appropriate hardware. Ensure that the seat is securely fastened and test it to confirm that it can bear your weight safely.

With these steps, you can enjoy a more comfortable and functional inflatable boat with added seating.

Buying a seat with a backrest

When buying a seat with a backrest for your inflatable boat, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, you'll want to ensure that the seat is the correct size for your boat and that it has the necessary attachments to secure it in place. You can buy seats with backrests that are designed specifically for inflatable boats, which typically come with the required attachments.

There are a variety of seats with backrests available on the market, offering different features and benefits. For example, some seats have adjustable backrests, providing a more customised experience. You can also find seats with additional padding for extra comfort, or those that come with a storage bag or pouch, which can be useful for storing small items.

When choosing a seat, it's important to consider the material it is made from. Seats with a marine-grade vinyl exterior, for instance, offer durability and water resistance. You may also want to opt for a seat with a moisture-proof design, particularly if you plan to use your boat for fishing or other activities that may result in getting the seat wet.

• Inflatable Kayak Seat with Back Rest Sit on Top Seat for Inflatable Boats
• Defender Bench Seat with Folding Backrest
• Inflatable Kayak Seat Fishing Boat Seat Comfortable Backrest Support Outdoor Surfing Board Seat for Kayaking Fishing Canoeing
• GCI Outdoor SitBacker Adjustable Canoe Seat with Back Support

Frequently asked questions