Zodiac Boat Buying Guide: Choosing The Best Vessel

Zodiac boats are a well-known name in the marine industry, offering a range of vessels at reasonable prices. Their boats are designed with a low centre of gravity and a deep V-hull design, providing a stable and comfortable ride. The brand has been around for over 125 years and is present in more than 90 countries, with a network of 1,600 dealers.

Zodiac Nautic offers a wide range of inflatable and RIB boats, from tenders and fishing boats to water sports boats. Their boats are known for their agility, lightness, and versatility, making them suitable for both assistance and entertainment. The folding inflatable tubes and rigid hulls offer space, comfort, and easy storage.

When choosing a Zodiac boat, consider factors such as your intended use, construction materials, size, weight capacity, portability, and additional features. Compare different models and prices to find the best Zodiac boat that suits your needs and budget.

Inflatable vs rigid

Zodiac boats are available in both rigid and inflatable models. Inflatable boats are a cheap and convenient way to get out on the water. They are easy to transport, deploy, and store, and are surprisingly affordable. They are also versatile, with styles ranging from calm water leisure inflatables to high-powered RIBs (rigid inflatable boats) for open waters.

RIBs, on the other hand, are more expensive and take longer to inflate and deflate. However, they offer greater durability and performance, making them suitable for rough waters. They are also more stable and offer greater buoyancy due to their low centre of gravity. The rigid construction of RIBs makes them very stable at high speeds and almost impossible to capsize, which is why they are a favourite of sea rescue teams around the world.

When choosing between an inflatable and a rigid Zodiac boat, consider your intended use. If you plan to use the boat for leisure activities on calm waters, an inflatable boat may be the best option. Inflatable boats are more comfortable and easier to operate, and can be inflated and deflated in just a few minutes. On the other hand, if you plan to use the boat for fishing or other activities on rough waters, a rigid boat will provide greater durability and performance.

Zodiac vs other brands

Zodiac Nautic is the inventor of the inflatable and RIB boat and has been building them for over 125 years. The company is known for its boldness and innovation, as well as its commitment to excellence and quality. They offer a wide range of inflatable and RIB boats, including fishing boats, diving boats, and water sports boats. Their boats are versatile, easy to move around, and perfect for leisure activities with family and friends. Zodiac boats are also known for their stability, smooth ride, and quality construction.

When comparing Zodiac boats to other brands such as Newport Vessels and West Marine, there are several key differences to consider. Firstly, Zodiac boats tend to be more expensive, with similar models from competing brands being significantly cheaper. Additionally, Zodiac inflatable boats have smaller diameter tubes, which may result in less stability and more water splashing into the boat. However, Zodiac boats have removable tubes, allowing for easy replacement or a change of colour.

In terms of carrying capacity, the Newport Vessels Dana inflatable boat has a maximum load capacity of 1,067 lbs and can hold up to 3 passengers, while the Zodiac Cadet has a load capacity of 992 lbs and a max passenger capacity of 3. The West Marine PSB-275 can carry a slightly higher weight capacity of 1,103 lbs and fit 4 people.

When it comes to flooring, the Newport Vessels Dana and West Marine PSB-275 use marine wood and plywood, respectively, which are durable and solid. On the other hand, the Zodiac Cadet uses aluminium flooring, which is lighter but more susceptible to bending and denting under larger loads.

Overall, Zodiac boats offer high-quality construction, innovative designs, and a smooth ride. However, they come at a higher price point compared to other brands. When choosing an inflatable boat, it is important to consider factors such as stability, carrying capacity, flooring, and price to determine which brand and model best suit your needs.

Pros and cons

The Intex Excursion 5 is a versatile and inexpensive raft option for those looking for a budget-friendly rig that performs well under a variety of conditions. It is constructed from a tough, heavy-duty puncture-resistant vinyl material, built on top of an I-beam floor, for added rigidity. It features three separate air chambers, with a safety auxiliary chamber, Boston valves, full perimeter grab lines, and four oar holders. It also has inflatable seats with backrests, fishing rod holders, and sturdy grab handles for easy transportation.

However, despite being advertised as a 5-person boat, it is probably more suitable for 4 people. It also doesn't come with a quick air-release valve on the floor, which means deflation is slower.

The Intex Mariner 4 is a unique SIB with a hard plastic flooring that offers more stability compared to other boats with standard inflatable flooring. It is also far more affordable than other rafts with solid flooring. It has an inflatable keel for better manoeuvrability and five separate air chambers that are easily inflated and deflated. It also has three inflatable and detachable seats, built-in fishing rod holders, 360-degree swivel oar handles and motor mount fittings.

However, the Mariner 4 is probably more suitable for three adults or two adults and two children, rather than four adults.

The Zodiac X10CC is the largest boat ever built by Zodiac. Its generous deck space makes it easy to move around, whatever the number of passengers, which can be as many as 20. Boldness and innovation are at the heart of Zodiac's values, and they have developed their technical expertise to offer models of fishing boats, diving boats, and water sports boats. Their RIBs, with their folding inflatable tubes and rigid hulls, offer space and comfort on board for passengers, as well as easy storage. The robustness of their boats undergoes a high level of quality testing to ensure they can withstand the unpredictability of the weather at sea.

However, one of the main drawbacks of Zodiac boats is that they are generally quite expensive.

BRIG boats have become the number-one selling boat in the United Kingdom, Sweden, Holland, and Australia. Marine pros appreciate their versatility, while buyers compliment how style and engineering combine to create a great product. They have a serious line-up of vessels that start with tenders and work their way up to a 33-foot inflatable option that boaters can cook and sleep on.

However, one user has commented that the instructions for BRIG boats can be confusing and quite difficult to understand.

Cost

The cost of a Zodiac boat varies depending on the model, features, and specifications. Here is a breakdown of the pricing for different Zodiac boats and similar inflatable boats:

Inflatable Sport Boats Shark 9.8'

This boat costs around $1,700 and offers a premium experience with aluminum floorboards, two aluminum bench seats, a removable seat cushion, a carry bag, and other accessories. It is designed for safety and performance, making it a top-notch choice for boating enthusiasts.

Intex Mariner 4 Inflatable Boat

The Intex Mariner 4 inflatable boat is available for under $520. It has dimensions of 129" x 57" x 19" and a weight capacity of 1,110 pounds. The boat is made of high-quality materials resistant to abrasion, impact, and sunlight. It also features an inflatable keel for better control and ease of inflation and deflation.

Intex Excursion 5 Person Inflatable Boat

Priced at around $279, the Intex Excursion 5 is an excellent option for those seeking an affordable and versatile inflatable boat. It is made from PVC fabric and features an inflatable floor for comfort and rigidity. The set includes a high-output hand pump, a storage bag, and other accessories, making it a great choice for those looking for portability and convenience.

Sea Eagle 285 Inflatable Frameless Fishing Pontoon Boat

This boat costs around $1,000 and is specifically designed for fishing enthusiasts. It has a weight capacity of 450 pounds and comes with a motor mount. The assembly is quick, taking about five minutes, and it offers a comfortable seating experience with a 360-degree swivel seat and a backrest.

Bestway 65049E Hydro Force Mirovia Pro 130 Inch 5 Person Inflatable Boat

The Bestway Hydro Force Mirovia Pro is a heavy-duty boat priced under $1,000. It is made of durable PVC material and marine-grade stitch fabric. The boat features three air chambers, a high-pressure inflatable keel, and a maximum power rating of 15HP. It comes with two collapsible oars, a hand pump, a repair kit, and other accessories, making it a great choice for those seeking a durable and feature-rich option.

BRIS 8.2 Ft Inflatable Boat

The BRIS 8.2 Ft inflatable boat costs around $1,000 and is suitable for both freshwater and saltwater use. It is made of durable PVC material (1100 denier) and features heat-welded seams, ensuring its longevity in various water conditions. The boat comes with a PVC hull, a repair kit, two aluminum oars, a carrying bag, and a foot pump. It offers excellent maneuverability and stability, making it a versatile choice for water enthusiasts.

AIRHEAD Angler Bay Inflatable Boat

The AIRHEAD Angler Bay inflatable boat is available in different sizes, with the 3-person boat priced under $130 and the 6-person boat costing around $252. It features an inflatable floor, a movable inflatable seat, rod holders, drink holders, and welded seams for added durability. This boat provides a great balance of features and affordability, making it ideal for those seeking a budget-friendly option for up to six people.

Inflatable Sport Boats Killer Whale 10.8'

The Inflatable Sport Boats Killer Whale is a premium option priced higher than the other models mentioned. It features heat-welded seams, making it suitable for all water conditions, and is puncture-resistant. The boat comes with a range of accessories, including aluminum oars, a storage bag, a foot pump, repair patches, and a one-way drain plug. It also includes a three-year warranty, providing peace of mind for your investment.

Intex Seahawk 4 Inflatable 4 Person Boat

The Intex Seahawk 4 is an excellent choice for those on a budget, costing under $500. It offers a comfortable and durable experience with its puncture-resistant PVC construction. The boat includes oar holders and a gear pouch, making it suitable for boating, fishing, or simply relaxing on the water.

Newport Vessels 8-Feet 10-Inch Dana Inflatable Sport Tender Dinghy Boat

The Newport Vessels inflatable boat is priced around $2,000 and offers a stylish and speedy experience on the water. It can be assembled and disassembled in 15 minutes, and its large tail tubes provide stability and quick take-offs. The package includes a PVC boat hull, an aluminum-framed marine wood floor, aluminum bench seats, oars, a storage bag, a foot pump, repair patches, and more. This boat is an excellent choice for those seeking a sleek and high-performance inflatable boat.

Durability

Construction Materials

The choice of construction materials is critical to the durability of an inflatable boat. Most inflatable boats are made from either PVC, Hypalon, or Nitrylon. PVC is lightweight, strong, durable, and usually more affordable. Hypalon is tougher and more resistant to UV rays, salt water, and punctures, but it is less flexible and more expensive. Nitrylon is a synthetic fabric that offers superior puncture and abrasion resistance but is heavier. Some boats also use aluminium, marine plywood, or other materials for the floor and transom, adding rigidity and durability.

Number of Air Chambers

Inflatable boats with more air chambers are generally more durable as they provide redundancy in case of a puncture. Multiple air chambers also allow for better weight distribution and improved stability.

Seams and Adhesives

The quality of the seams and adhesives used in construction is vital to durability. Heat-welded seams are often stronger than glued seams, as the PVC material is melted together to form a more durable bond. Glued seams can be more prone to leaks over time.

Protection Features

Additional protection features enhance the durability of an inflatable boat. For example, a boat with a V-keel and rub-strake protection will better withstand impacts and abrasion. A boat with a slatted hull will have improved rigidity and stability, making it safer and more durable.

Brand Reputation

Choosing a reputable brand with a track record of producing durable boats is essential. Zodiac, for instance, is known for its commitment to excellence and innovation, with over 125 years of experience in the industry. Other brands like BRIG, Ribcraft, and Sea Eagle also have a reputation for building durable and high-quality boats.

When considering the durability of a Zodiac boat, it's important to look at the specific construction materials, the number of air chambers, the quality of seams and adhesives, any additional protection features, and the brand's reputation for durability. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about the best Zodiac boat for your needs.

Frequently asked questions