light weight yacht tender

Practical Boat Owner

• Digital edition

Best inflatable boat: 9 compact tenders put to the test

• Robert Melotti
• September 9, 2021

Rob Melotti and the PBO test team put some lightweight, portable inflatable dinghies through their paces in Lymington to find the best inflatable boat

Inflatables are everywhere: paddleboards , canoes, kayaks , tents, kites and wings – and inflatable boat technology has long been a practical option for tenders, RIBs, liferafts and lifejackets .

But what the ‘new wave’ of inflatable boats brings to the practical boating landscape is the air floor, which makes very stable, very lightweight tenders a very practical option for people with limited stowage ie owners of cruising boats under 30ft.

And the market has responded with a selection of offerings under 2.4m weighing under 20kg. So which is the best and what should you be looking for to get the most for your money?

We tested nine models sold by eight different brand names. The inflatable boats were superficially quite similar, but in the accumulation of small details it was possible to pick a few favourites.

We rowed and motored all of the inflatable boats solo, and most of them with two aboard. We weighed and measured them and found a lot to like.

What’s the best inflatable boat? 9 options tested

3D Twin V Shape 230 Air Deck Tender was a good all-round performer – and best on test

3D Twin V Shape 230 Air deck tender

French manufacturer 3D Tender was one of the earliest producers of ultralight inflatable tenders. This model sports premium touches, such as davit rings and the most high-spec pump of all the inflatable boats on test.

In terms of convenience it is a rucksack carry bag with a large front pocket for the pump and accessories. The zips will need maintenance though.

The V floor is a single chamber, keeping set-up time to a minimum and keeping the weight down. The lack of safety lines on the side makes carrying as a two-person team a little less convenient than some of the other inflatable boats, but the keel strip will help preserve this boat.

The rowlocks double as cleats and the rubbing strake will provide strength but little in the way of splashproofing for passengers.

Buy it now on oceanfirstmarine.co.uk

Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

Force 4 02Lite was the lightest on test

Force 4 02Lite

This model is very similar to the Seago Go Lite (also tested), including the rucksack, which was our favourite on test for carrying comfort, although you do have to beware of any loose objects inside the bag dropping out of the side enclosure flap.

The Force 4 02Lite was the lightest package overall and packed down to just 90cm long.

The oars were the smallest on test, which affected the rowing performance, but it was the only inflatable boat with open rowlocks – so you can use your own oars.

The bench is adjustable, but I wasn’t able to position it far enough aft to brace my feet against the transom under oars.

There are three D-rings for making a towing bridle on the bow but no ergonomic carry handle.

The rubbing strake is minimal with no splash guard and there are no davit lifting eyes.

Buy it now on force4.co.uk

Crewsaver Air Deck 230 is solidly built and joint cheapest, but is outclassed by 3D Tender’s lightweight V floor design

Crewsaver Air Deck 230

Best cheap inflatable boat

The pack we were sent for testing had the incorrect seat included, but we were able to substitute a seat from one of the other inflatable boats on test without difficulty.

The rucksack doesn’t have a front pocket, but there are no zips to corrode and the adjustable webbing buckles mean the top opening of the bag is quite forgiving for repacking.

The safety lines are robustly attached to the hull, which is a feature that will pay dividends long-term, but adds a bit of weight.

The rubbing strake is also weighty, but the splash guards will keep water out of the boat.

The coned aft sponson caps are hard plastic, enabling vertical storage without damage and the rowlocks double as cleats.

There are davit rings in the bow and through the thick transom board, plus the bow handle is wide for ergonomic carrying.

Buy it now on crewsaver.com

Excel Ventura SL200

From a Midlands-based company that specialises in inflatable boats, this came with a great double-action hand pump and was the only boat on test with an over-pressure valve – a useful feature for exposure to the hot sun.

The safety lines are sturdily attached and splash guards make up part of the rubbing strake protecting the sides and keeping water out of the boat.

The rowlocks double as cleats and the bow handle is wide enough for a proper grip.

Excel Ventura SL200’s double action hand pump made short work of inflation

Davit fittings are supplied and the sponsons are shaped to add waterline length and buoyancy aft. The duffel carry bag was the sturdiest on test.

This inflatable boat comes with a good long set of oars, although we had to sit side-by-side to make any progress under oars with two adults on board.

Buy it now on excel-inflatables.co.uk

Quicksilver was big – but also heavy

Quicksilver Tendy Airfloor 240

This boat has an inflatable keel as well as a removable inflatable floor. There was also a rigid slat athwartship between the floor and keel, which increases the weight overall.

This is one of the priciest and heaviest inflatable boats on the test and one of the largest in packed dimensions.

It features a fuel tank strap, a decent keel strip to prevent damage on slipways, a decent bow carry handle and rowlock cleats.

The rubbing strake is quite meaty as well without being particularly splashproof.

The carry bag is very forgiving – opening flat like a groundsheet.

There were no carry handles on the sponsons and the safety rope fixings aren’t as solid as many of the other inflatable boats on test, although there are rowlock cleats and the seat is fully adjustable.

Buy it now on eBay

Light weight makes for easy handling on land and in the water

Seago Go Lite 230

Seago is a distributor, supplying UK chandleries and there are similarities between this model and the 02Lite from Force 4.

This model is very light and compact – just 0.5kg heavier than Force 4, but packs down to the same 90cm length.

The oars are very short, but are fixed using a pin and thole system which some may prefer over the Force 4’s rowlocks.

The PVC material is described as 1100 Decitex (Force 4 is 800 Decitex) and the backpacks of the two were identical: comfortable to carry and forgiving to repack due to their large side aperture rather than a narrow top.

The rubbing strake is minimal and there is no ergonomic bow handle.

Buy it now on seagoyachting.co.uk

YAM 200T is not rated for two adults

This 2m inflatable boat has a fixed seat and was unique on the test for having wooden slats to reinforce the floor. This means less pumping up, but slightly increased weight.

Like the 3D tender there is no safety rope so carrying between two crew involves spreading your arms wide from bow handle to stern handle placed on the sponsons. It is rated for one adult and one child – the smallest by rating on the test.

There is a hefty rubbing strake with raised levels to block spray and the rowlocks double as cleats. The oars are miniature and the bow has three D-rings for rigging a towing bridle but no ergonomic handle for carrying. With two adults aboard we would have been better rowing side by side – but it was no slouch under engine.

Buy it now on bhg-marine.co.uk

The nicest boat on test to row

YAM 240 (STI) Air Floor Sport Tender

This is the most expensive model on test and features an inflatable keel as well as a floor section, plus two sponsons to inflate.

With that much to inflate a high quality pump would have been better, but there is a pressure gauge included in the package to get everything sufficiently firm.

The seat is fixed but the oars were nice and long, which made it the nicest boat to row. As with the YAM 200T there were no safety lines fitted and carry handles are spread far apart, which makes carrying more difficult.

But there is a good, ergonomic bow carry handle and the inflatable boat is rated to carry 400kg, the highest rating on test. The rowlocks double as cleats and the rounded aft end of the sponsons have protective, hard plastic caps.

Smaller diameter sponsons means more space aboard – but less freeboard

Talamex Superlight SLA230

Talamex is a Dutch brand imported by EP Barrus. This inflatable boat had the narrowest diameter sponsons on test, which creates more internal space, but less freeboard.

It’s an extremely lightweight package, with a thin transom board, but nice long oars and a good carrying handle on the bow.

The pump supplied is a single-action hand pump and the bag folds out completely flat like a groundsheet, which is very forgiving for repacking.

The bag has nice carrying handles on the narrow ends. The seat was massively adjustable and the rubbing strake is generous without offering very much splash guarding.

The safety rope attachments look a bit vulnerable and there are no other handles on the sponsons.

Launching the Seago 320

Verdict: Which was the best inflatable boat on test?

This group of inflatable boats can be subdivided in a few different ways: by length, by price and by weight (note there is also a group of rucksack boats and a trio of air-keel boats).

I think the best on test goes to the 3D Tender, which manages to keep the weight down, comes complete with a very high-spec pump, a very user-friendly rucksack bag with a big front pocket and a ‘slight V form floor’ that inflates as a single chamber.

There are no safety lines or a bow handle, so carrying the boat when inflated is less natural than some of the others and it’s the second most expensive.

The best bargain buy is probably the lightest, smallest package: Force 4, for me, is preferable to the very similar Seago model because of its ‘open’ rowlocks. But if you prefer captive oars, the Seago is slightly cheaper.

The Crewsaver is the same low price and probably more robust and seaworthy than the Force 4 or the Seago while being easier to carry when inflated than the 3D Tender. But without the V floor I think it’s a less versatile performer.

I didn’t see the benefit of the two 200cm dinghies we tested: both were noticeably small in use without being smaller to pack and stow or lighter to carry.

The 240cm V Floor models can carry bigger loads at greater speed, but if you really need that level of performance you have to accept the extra set-up time, weight and stowage.

Best inflatable boats – key facts and figures

What makes the best inflatable boat for you?

Rucksack bags were easiest to carry

The bag details matter when one of the main selling points of a product is its portability. We looked at handles, zips and overall design. Metal zips will corrode without a regular rinse in fresh water, but as long as the zipper track is plastic, then replacement zipper trucks can be fitted relatively cheaply.

Carry handles at the narrow ends are very useful and half of the inflatable boats tested can be carried as rucksacks. A few of the boats pack away in bags that deconstruct on all four sides like groundsheets, with webbing straps and adjustable buckles crossways and lengthways.

These are very forgiving and yet still pack up tightly and securely. We also looked at the quality of the bag material: is the bag likely to survive chafing, stretching, damp or UV exposure for as long as the dinghy itself?

We weighed each of the inflatable boats in their carry bags and found quite a variation in boat weights

Size, weight and price

Our facts table will quickly show you the lightest and smallest packs and there are four tenders priced under £500.

The two longest inflatable boats in the test (YAM 240 and Quicksilver 240) were in the biggest bags (110cm and 120cm respectively), and were the heaviest packs weighing over 20kg even without any accessories.

Only three of the nine tested boats weighed in at under 20kg straight out of the box. There was an 11kg difference between the lightest (Force 4 02Lite) and the heaviest (Quicksilver Tendy Airfloor 240).

The Force 4 comes in a rucksack bag that is 20cm shorter in length than the Quicksilver and over £100 cheaper.

But unless size, weight and price are your only criteria, then a simple numerical comparison could miss some important details.

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Pumps and pressure

Some of the air floors are rated for 1psi; others at 11psi. Most of the sponsons were rated at 3.6psi, which shouldn’t require too much brow mopping for foot- or hand-pump operators.

Five of the inflatable boats came with foot pumps, but the double-action hand pumps with the 3D and the Quicksilver were a joy to use.

All the boats were easily carried by two when inflated

Manual handling

It’s an ironic linguistic quirk that a tender should be so regularly treated without much tenderness. Even a few hours’ use on a clean slipway incurred scuffs, dings, grubby marks and a few minor tears to the carry bags.

Grass is far kinder than concrete for inflating, but is in short supply at busy locations. We looked at keel strips, rubbing strakes, safety line attachment points, bow handles and more… including the relationship between price, weight and fit-out.

First published in the September 2021 issue of Practical Boat Owner.

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Power, Performance and Comfort Wrapped Up in a Light-Footed 10ft RIB Tender

It’s never been easier to experience adventure on the water than when climbing aboard the Falcon 330. The BRIG Falcon ‘T’ Series tender range is the best-selling lightweight fiberglass tender in UK & Europe, as exemplified by this nimble, compact RIB tender. This easy-to-navigate 10’4″ inflatable boat will transform an ordinary day on the water into an exhilarating joyride you’ll want to take again and again.

Weighing only 166 pounds, the Falcon 330 is built for speed and agility. This luxury yacht tender also provides remarkable comfort, even when traversing rough seas or choppy waters. Whether you’re out for a solo excursion or spending a full-filled day on the waves with a few companions, you’ll enjoy an adrenaline-pumping ride that allows you to leave your cares ashore.

The Falcon ‘T’ Series has been redesigned to include innovative design features such as the tube stern end steps and bow step plate with integrated chrome-finish navigation lights. The deluxe folding bench seat and console side seat provide ample room for up to four passengers.

Whether you’re cruising the coastline, exploring a hidden cove or inlet, or whipping through the waves, with the Falcon 330 at your command, your time on the water will never be the same again.

MAIN SPECIFICATIONS

10′ 4″

5′ 5″

Designed for Freedom and Adventure

Featuring an innovative European design that meets the highest standards for quality performance and maneuverability, the Falcon 330 is the ideal companion to your powerboat or yacht. The inflatability of the 10ft RIB tender eliminates the need for towing — take it onboard and inflate it when you’re ready to embark on your next adventure.

At a width of just over five feet, you can navigate narrow passages or congested boating lanes with ease, leaving larger, bulkier vessels in your wake. But despite its relatively small size, this compact RIB tender won’t cramp your style. Three spacious chambers provide plenty of room for you, your passengers and any food, diving equipment or other “necessities” you need to maximize your boating pleasure.

With the ability to generate up to 50 horsepower, you’ll appreciate this 10ft inflatable boat’s ability to propel you through the water — even when the going gets a little rough. As with all the watercraft in our line, we’ve made having fun on the water while aboard the Falcon 330 as safe as possible. The antiskid deck surface helps to prevent slipping and sliding — even on wet surfaces.

Order Your Falcon 330 From BRIG USA Today

There’s nothing like spending a day on the water to help you relax, rejuvenate and gain some perspective on life — as long as you have the right vessel at your control. Fun times await you — if you’re ready to take the plunge. We’re offering this one-of-a-kind 10ft RIB boat for sale right now — learn more about what the Falcon 330 has to offer. Contact BRIG USA for additional product and pricing information today.

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MiniJet 280

A small but mighty tender..

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Introducing the MiniJet – Williams unrivalled performance and quality, distilled into one small but perfect package.

This Lightweight and compact jet tender fits in a wide variety of garages onboard smaller luxury yachts, so more yacht owners can experience the unique thrill, manoeuvrability and quality of a Williams tender.

Light, nimble and with super-responsive, pinpoint steering, it’s just about the most fun you can have on the sea. The MiniJet 280 is built to stand the test of time, proving that being a small inflatable tender doesn’t have to be a compromise.

MiniJet 280 in Action

Highly durable

Highly manoeuvrable, mini but mighty, rotax ace 900 engine, detailed telemetry, power limiter, built to stand the test of time..

The MiniJet’s Hypalon tubes and tough marine vinyl upholstery means you can rest assured that your tender will stand the test of time.

Manoeuvrability in all conditions.

The MiniJet’s unique hull, control system and jet pump deliver pinpoint accuracy at any speed.

Handle small spaces and delicate manoeuvres with confidence, or open up the throttle and feel the thrill of straight-line speed and precision turns.

Good things come in small packages.

The MiniJet, unmatched performance distilled into a small but perfect package.

Just 2.8m long and 1.55m wide, the MiniJet fits many garages and means owners of sub 45ft yachts can now experience the quality, comfort and adrenaline rush of a Williams tender.

Meaner and clenaer.

The MiniJet’s BRP Rotax ACE 900 engine gives you improved torque and power-to-weight ratios, so you can roar across the sea, water skier in tow.

Whilst its improved fuel efficiency and catalytic converter makes it one of the cleanest marine engines in the world.

Always be informed.

The MiniJet’s BRP dashboard tells you all you need to know, from speed, RMP and compass heading to engine temperature and fuel burn.

New to high-performance tenders? Learn in a safe environment.

The MiniJet’s power limit switch means those new to the world of high-performance tenders can learn in a safe environment - until they’re ready to throw off the learner plates and really put the hammer down.

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“The Williams Minijet 280 is our choice here. That’s because in our view this perfectly-formed little beauty represents nothing less than the ultimate small jet tender.”

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Takacat boats.

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Featherweight Micro-Tender

Takacat T260LX

America's favorite micro-tender.

The Takacat T260LX is the perfect yacht tender and small personal craft—a lightweight and innovative dinghy. The T260LX provides easy boarding from the water and can be used for hassle-free access to clean the waterline of a larger vessel. With a sleek design, and featuring innovative Takacat advantages such as an open bow, catamaran hull design and the revolutionary Tube Transom®, the T260LX is often the most practical and envied dinghy in the anchorage. It also is a safe and comfortable fishing boat and has nearly limitless other uses. Possibility awaits you with this innovative and cutting-edge dinghy!

Easy to transport and store.

55 lbs 

Lightweight and easy to handle

Ready when you need it!

No need for the hassle of a trailer or the cost of storage. Pack down the boat into two carry bags and throw it in the trunk, closet, or overhead compartment. The carry bags are vented, so you can even store it wet and it stays fresh.

Easy Entry Bow

The open bow, raised deck and rigid air deck floor makes boarding passengers and cargo effortless from beach, dock, and even a larger vessel. Combined with the shallow draft of the boat, entry and exit from the water is just as simple, even for small children and pets.

Fast-Draining Removable Tube Transom®

The revolutionary removable Tube Transom® allows the deck to drain continuously, so the boat never holds water. Lightweight stainless steel construction on the tube makes the boat 15 lbs lighter than traditional inflatable boats.

Catamaran Performance

The lightweight catamaran style and aerodynamic tapered bow of Takacat glides over the water for smooth, fast travel. The high pressure air deck with non-skid coating creates a rigid platform to keep passengers and cargo steady on the water.

Pack it into your lazarette or any spare crevice when making offshore passages Also the perfect backup / emergency dinghy for boats with larger main dinghies

Easy to Row

Lightweight PVC rubber material construction and the sleek Tube Transom® keeps the boat lightweight, making it easy to pilot with the included oars. External oar rowlocks and Velcro straps ensure your oars stay on board with you.

Catamaran Safety & Stability

Safe for Pet Paws

Takacat boats are made with durable coated textile fabric that is very wear and puncture resistant. Bring along your furry friends without worry of punctures or damage from their claws! 

Durable Single-Seam Construction

The hulls are constructed with a single seam, rather than the double seams on standard inflatables. Less seam work minimizes the likelihood of damage at the weakest spots of the boat. The seams use a chemically bonded gluing system for durability against brittleness.

Technical Specs

Length: 8 ft 6 in Beam: 5 ft 1 in

Boat Weight: 55 lbs Max Capacity: 793 lbs

Transom bars are made of 2mm wall thickness 304 Stainless Steel. Transom boards made of painted marine plywood.

Tube Diameter: 19 in Max Horsepower: 8 HP Rec. Horsepower: 2.5 HP

Carry Bags: 2 Bag #1: 35.5 in x 14 in x 12 in; 30 lbs Bag #2: 35.5 in x 14 in x 12; in 30 lbs

Press Reviews

"There’s lots of fun to be had[...]They plane easily and corner comfortably[...]"  Read the article...

Sarah Ell 2017 - Boating New Zealand

"The conspicuous open bow and stern of the Takacat design allows for flatter, more expansive, and more stable platform than any comparable inflatable we’ve tested." Read the article... Robert Michelin 2020 - Practical Sailor Magazine

"The whole package feels solid and is blessedly free from the skittishness of the traditional roll up inflatable. [...] I was reluctant to pack the Takacat away and kept her inflated for four days as I went back to do more “testing.” Read the article... Matt Vance 2016 - Boating New Zealand

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Takacat Stands Behind Our Products with a 3 year warranty

With a 3 year warranty, you can buy with confidence that you won't be up a creek without a paddle! Takacat services its warranty from the USA, so if you do need any warranty repairs or replacements, you can be sure to receive them quickly!

Freqently Asked Questions

A. Most inflatables in the U.S. market are boring. They all look and perform the same. Instead of copying everyone else’s design, we decided to innovate. The Takacat catamaran hull design is fast, stable, safe, and comfortable. The fast draining removable Tube Transom® is simple and portable, which makes Takacat one of the most versatile inflatable boats in the market.

A. The Takacat line of boats are designed for quick and easy assembly. No need to mess around with heavy and complicated floorboard systems, our high pressure air deck floor fits perfectly in place while it inflates. Inflation with the supplied manual pump takes about 15 minutes, depending on the size of the boat and your urgency. Inflation with an electric pump takes about 8-10 minutes

A: We recommend cavitation plates for outboards greater than 6hp and less than 20 horsepower. Our dealers carry a wide variety of brands, we have tested and confirm the efficacy of the Permatrim and the Davis Dole-Fin.We recommend having your propeller cupped if you experience any cavitation or ventilation. Cupping the prop will give the propeller more grip in the water and increase performance.We recommend PowerTech stainless steel propellers for the best possible performance of your Takacat, although not necessary in most cases.

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Takacat + Electric Motor Package

Bundle and Save with our Takacat LX models paired with your choice of ePropulsion electric outboard.

Whether you are exploring the mangroves, shuttling from ship to shore or just out for a cruise the Takacat LX boats pair beautifully with the ePropulsion eLite and the Spirit outboard motors!

ePropulsion motors are whisper quiet and when combined with the low drag of the Takacat catamaran hull shape you have an ultra-stable, self-bailing and ultra-portable exploration vessel that will bring smiles and stories for many years to come.

eLite Bundles Include: 1x Your selected Takacat Boat 1x eLite motor with integrated battery 1x eLite carry bag

Spirit Bundles Include: 1x Your selected Takacat Boat 1x Spirit 1.0 PLUS motor - Short Shaft 1x Spirit 1.0 Battery 1x Battery carry bag 1x Motor carry bag

To learn more about the Takacat LX line of boats, check this link out.

To learn more about ePropulsion motors, see the below links:

Learn more about the ePropulsion eLite

Learn more about the ePropulsion Spirit 1.0 Plus

Other ePropulsion motors are available for purchase but may require a deeper conversation, please Contact Us to discuss other motor options.

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Permatrim Plate

Lift the power and performance of your Takacat’s gas-powered outboard motor with a Permatrim Hydrofoil. The catamaran design with a single, centralized outboard lends itself to ventilation on higher power outboards. This is more prevalent in the shorter models, but can be brought out on any of the Takacat boats.

We have a remedy to this problem by way of another New Zealand product—Permatrim. This foil plate bolts to the cav plate (the little tongue that sticks out over the propeller) and does a good job of fixing cavitation issues. It also helps get the boat on plane quicker and easier, and reduces splashing from the transom when underway. Fitment Guide:

• M3 fits 2.5 HP Outboards (All Modern Makes & Models)
• M4 fits 4 - 6 HP Outboards (All Modern Makes & Models)
• M5 fits 8 - 30 HP Outboards (All Modern Makes & Models)

Find the Takacat that fits you

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LIGHTWEIGHT LANDING CRAFT RANGE

LIGHTWEIGHT CATAMARAN YACHT TENDER

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• True Kit Navigator - Lightweight Catamaran Yacht Tender

Pickup available at True Kit USA

Usually ready in 2-4 days

All standard orders are prepared and dispatched within 1-3 working days. We aim to ship all US orders from our brand new base in Ft Lauderdale when inventory allows - otherwise it will come from our New Zealand HQ.

Our door-to-door shipping will bring your order straight to your doorstep. Regardless of where your order is shipped from, delivery typically ranges from 5-14 days.

All orders from outside the US will incur standard customs duties and fees upon arrival in your country. Our shipment providers will assist with customs clearance and collection of duties. Please ensure you are available for communications during this shipping time.

For more help or information, contact us.

EXPERIENCE THE NAVIGATOR YACHT TENDER

We strive to keep the weight out of our inflatable boat range to make our dinghies manageable by anyone. Carrying and rowing these boats is a breeze, and for our larger designs we have our exclusive QuickLok Dingy Launching Wheels. 

Whether you are using your True Kit as a tender and need to pull it onboard the mothership, or your True Kit is the water-going extension of your caravan, keeping it light is critical. The secret is in our thermo-welded seams and superior fabrics, which help us to remove all unnecessary weight from the boat.

Have you ever had that tippy feeling climbing in and out of a dinghy? Experience what we call "stand up stability". The nature of inflatable catamarans means all the buoyancy is on the outside. This provides an incredibly stable platform for stepping in and out of the dinghy.

True Kit inflatable catamaran's have a hull that has significantly less drag than a typical deep-v hull. This efficiency allows Navigator owners to have the option to use much smaller, lighter, more affordable outboard engines. You need less horsepower to enjoy a thrilling ride.

This also makes it the perfect boat for a small electric outboard - maximizing the the range and spee

At True Kit, our inflatable boats are designed to be packed down and travelled with easily. We use the finest German-made fabrics that are flexible and durable to be folded and unfolded again and again.

Because our boats are so portable, they can be launched from more remote areas of lakes and waterways - giving you the best experience on the water

Quality and durability were uppermost in our minds when we were choosing the materials for the True Kit range.  After extensive research and testing we chose the world’s leading, premium fabric for inflatable boats - Valmex® by Mehler Germany. 

•Mehler has over 60 years’ experience in the development of textiles

•Mehler uses the most advanced technology to ensure their high quality, German made textiles are longer lasting

•The Valmex® fabric demonstrates superior flexibility, elasticity, airtightness and resistance against mechanical damage and UV

•Valmex® is recyclable

•Manufactured in Germany under the internationally recognised standard of quality: ISO 9001:2008

The transom is the transfer unit between the outboard engine and the boat. We have created an incredibly stiff, lightweight aluminium transom using unique design and quality materials. The triple fold provides strength and direct power transfer from the engine to the boat while also being very light. The whole transom is finished to super yacht level with the AkzoNobel powercoat system.

The seam can be an inflatable boat's Achilles Heel - or the strongest part.  We choose to thermo-weld the seams on our boats  to create the strongest bond possible (a permanent mechanical bond).  A welded seam on a True Kit inflatable actually becomes stronger than the fabric itself. Don't settle for glued seams.

• Railblaza Sideports - Workshop Installation
• QuickLok Dinghy Launching Wheels - Workshop Installed

COMPARE OUR NAVIGATORS

"Awesome dinghy.  So light & stable & fits perfectly on the roof of the Rayglass 2800." - Mark Irvine

WHY WE'RE DIFFERENT

Key components in every true kit, premium valmex® fabric.

Dedicated to true quality, we only use German-made UV-resistant Valmex®.

Precision thermo-welded seams

Welded, not glued, creating an unbreakable bond built to outperform and outlast the competition.

Ultra rigid AirDeck

High pressure air deck with thermo-welded seams - providing that important rigidity to your True Kit.

Enjoy a seamless purchase experience with True Kit Direct. With our new base in Ft. Lauderdale, we offer expert advice, lower prices, and a closer connection to the brand. Our direct-to-customer approach ensures personalized service and exclusive benefits, enhancing your buying experience.

We stand behind the quality and durability of our inflatable catamarans because all our boats go through a rigorous testing protocol. That's why we offer an industry-leading 5-year warranty on all our boats. Enjoy long-term peace of mind with every purchase, knowing that your True Kit is built to last and protected by our comprehensive warranty coverage.

At True Kit, we commit to shipping your order in 1-3 business days. You will receive tracking notifications as soon as your order is on its way. We aim to ship all US orders from our new base in Ft. Lauderdale. However, until we have full inventory, some orders may still be shipped from our New Zealand headquarters. Shipping times are 5-10 days from Florida, and 10-14 days from New Zealand.

PERFECT FOR ALL LIFESTYLES

RV / CAMPER

Want to know more.

With your Navigator, you'll get: Boat Floor Aluminium Seat(s) 2-piece Aluminium Oar Set Boat Bags True Kit Bravo Hand Pump Repair Kit

Both boats share exactly the same materials and construction methods. The designs also share a similar catamaran platform which offers superior stability and performance when compared to conventionally designed inflatables. The main difference is in the bow section. The Navigator is primarily designed for yacht tender purposes and has a high volume tube running all the way around the bow. This means you can load the dinghy up with more people and gear and have them close to the bow. The Discovery has parallel tubes which are tapered towards the bow. This creates less volume in the bow area which increases performance and also allows the bow to be pushed close to the water when weight is placed there. This unique design feature is great for swimmers and divers boarding the boat from the water, it is much easier than climbing up over the side tubes.

Our customers are always surprised at how well our boats row. While they haven’t all been specifically designed for rowing (except the Stowaway), the low drag platform and lightweight construction make them a breeze to row. The catamaran design also helps the boats to track well compared to many other flat bottomed boats.

We offer a 5 year limited warranty on new boats.  Warranty terms can be found in the Warranty page on our website True Kit Warranty . Boats built with Valmex® 20 years ago can still be seen zipping around demonstrating exceptionally long life expectancy.

Please read our frequently asked questions to find out more.

• Accessories

QUICKLOK DINGHY LAUNCHING WHEELS

Add a set of our QuickLok Dinghy Wheels to make moving your True Kit inflatable simple. Remove in seconds with the simple clip on/clip off installation lock.

TRUE KIT REVIEWS

Greenline boat owner.

We wanted a tender for our hybrid boat that would run well with an electric outboard. True Kit found me on social media and impressed with innovation and responsive sales support. Our new navigator arrived a week after ordering and was easy to set up and inflate the first time. Looking forward to her taking us ashore.

Great tender for us and our bikes

We needed a tender with enough stability and room to get us and our electric bikes to and from shore easily. We just tried our True Kit Navigator 300 and it is perfect for this. It performed well with our Torqeedo Traveler 1003.

So far so good!

Haven’t had a chance to get it in the water yet but blew it up on deck and first impressions are excellent! The simple/quick release air valves are refreshingly easy compared to previous dinghies I’ve owned, and it’s nice that the pump comes with a gauge. So far so good!

Navigator 3.0

Very happy with the quality of both build and design. I’m looking forward to many years of fun and service from this tender. Highly recommend to of the pile product!!

Customer Reviews

Not used it yet but we inflated it and deflated it and stowed it . Perfect. Impressive looking. Mercury 2.5 is our new engine of choice. Way within guidelines. The tender will partner with our Atlas25 Trawler. Rooftop inflated dinghy under way. Needed a light dinghy, this fits our needs:). Texas USA. Randy/Gini

I costs a bit more because it is better in every way. Design, materials, construction. Top shelf.

I bought the 2.5 … best inflatable I have had so far. I wish I could place the seat aft about a foot for motoring and where currently “as built” for rowing. I wish the supplied oars were a little longer. It’s a bit noiser towing due to the water slapping on the “tunnel” under the body of the boat between the tubes. This sounds like a lot of crit. But make no mistake, it is I think the best airfloor small tender on market currently. Including to my eye, actually almost handsome in shape fit and finish - for an inflatable.

We get so many compliments between the boat and the Epropulsion electric motor. Great tender to my 360 Cobalt

What a pleasant surprise. You have exceeded my expectations! Arrived in timely manner. Expertly packed. Solid construction. Pump is a beast. Easy assembly. Rows well. Agile under power. Very stable. I will be ordering accessories (please make more seat bags?!) Thanks for a well made product! John Lehman S/V Aventura

4019 NE 6th Ave Oakland Park Fort Lauderdale Florida 33334 Phone  +1954439-6003

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Unrivaled in Rigidity, Lightness, and Efficiency

Our yacht tenders boast durable, streamlined, and versatile designs meticulously crafted for optimal performance on the water.

About our Tenders

Discover the future of yachting with Ultra Lite Tenders. Born from a desire for a more robust, spacious, yet effortlessly stowable yacht tender, our journey led us to redefine the tender experience. A synergy of ideas and expertise brought our vision to life. At ULT, we now proudly offer two variants of yacht tenders, each exemplifying lightness, strength, and efficiency. Crafted in collaboration with Ocean 5 Naval Architects, these fiberglass tenders aren't just boats, they're an elegant extension of your yacht. Our tenders stand apart in their load-carrying efficiency and stability, designed with precision and a keen eye for detail. Join us in redefining the yacht tender experience. 

Timeless design, contemporary soul

LOA w/o engine

The ULT tenders were designed by Ocean 5 Naval Architects and are currently available in two different sizes.

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Our valued partners in progress.

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Yachting World

• Digital Edition

Best sailing tender: get a buzz from your boat or boot

• Toby Hodges
• July 13, 2022

Want some easy, fun sailing this summer? launched from your yacht or car, the latest sailing tender ideas give that instant sailing buzz. Toby Hodges and Sam Fortescue report

While we all crave as much helming pleasure as possible from our cruising yachts, the reality is that after making realistic space, volume and budget compromises, they may not always be that exhilarating on the helm. But once you reach a destination or anchorage, what’s to stop you, your friends or kids getting your hands-on tiller-sailing fix if you can stow the right sailing tender aboard?

You could argue that the development of lightweight, modular or inflatable dinghies in recent years has solved a headache for some yacht owners – now they can go for extra volume, or switch to a multihull perhaps, safe in the knowledge they can get the spray-in-the-face dinghy experience from a tender or toy once anchored.

Stowage space, whether on deck, on davits or in a locker, governs what options are available. In the past the choice has fallen into three categories: a rowing dinghy you can sail, a nesting dinghy, or a sailing inflatable (such as the Tinker Tramp). And while these categories haven’t necessarily changed, the design and technology lately has made the products immeasurably more appealing!

The ability to stow a quick-to-rig toy in the boot or on the roof of the car, has also unlocked the potential to explore a multitude of different sailing waters easily. These designs have brought to sailing what inflatable paddleboards have brought to watersports.

Best sailing tender

For cruising sailors, this could be an ideal solution: a stable, lightweight tender that will sail well too

OC Sailing Tender

This has been at the top of my wishlist for tenders for some time, but now the family-run New Zealand company has come out with a rig for this lightweight composite boat that has just doubled the appeal.

OC Tenders was developed by experienced cruising sailors who were after a dry, stable, maintenance-free tender which is light enough to pull up a beach. A wide hull shape with plumb bow and flat run provides stability and volume and early planing ability, while foam sandwich construction makes it solid (puncture free) and light enough to carry. These also happen to be key elements for many modern performance sailing dinghy designs.

OC Tenders is unveiling a new Sailing Tender version this year, a kit which transforms two of its existing tenders into sailing dinghies. The main difference is a centreboard case which attaches to the thwart with a mast step below, neither of which can be removed, but only add 6kg weight. The rest of the sailing components are stored in bags which fit inside the tender, including a 6m mast in two sections, boom (both in 30% carbon), centreboard, rudder, hiking straps and 7.5m2 sail.

OC has a video of the tender surfing along and another of how easy it is to right it if you capsize. The boats weighs 68kg for the 3.3m or 74kg for the 3.5m, while the sailing components add just 15kg. Both are also available in carbon versions (a NZ$4,000 upgrade). The slight catch may be the cost, and that it’s a small company with low production run and high demand.

Price: OC330 from NZ$23,500 (circa £12,000).

Buy it now from octenders

Reverso Air is quick to get on the plane. Photo: Armand Dayde

Reverso Air

It may be a nesting dinghy, but there’s nothing clinker-built about the Reverso Air. From the outset, the team behind this pocket beast of a boat were focused on performance, and that is what you get in spades. It has been clocked at 16 knots and readily takes to the plane, surfing down anything from harbour chop to long swell.

Reverso is built in Brittany using advanced composite construction. The 3.40m hull is infused in honeycomb sandwich, for stiffness and light weight, and carbon reinforcing is added where the loads are greatest, such as the mast step. The mast itself is a tube of high-modulus carbon fibre weighing just under 3kg, and the sail is 7m2 of high-tech membrane from Incidence.

Part of the stellar performance comes from the hull shape, designed by Charles Bertrand. A broad beam, flat bottom and deep chines provide stability for sailing with kids and a great platform for planing when a gust blows. “It is the lightness of the boat which makes it fast and efficient, allowing it to accelerate quickly,” says founder Antoine Simon. “Also, the quality of the materials, which give a dynamic response and transmit the forces, especially with the rigid hull.”

The boat is designed to take two grown-ups or an adult and two kids, so you can refine your technique in company if you like. Simon says this makes the boat ideal for teaching kids or going out for a solo burn.

Assembly is pretty simple and can take less than two minutes. The hull is composed of four parts, the heaviest of which weighs 16.8kg. The sections clip together along the coaming using stainless-steel levers. Then you add tension along the bottom of the boat using two Dyneema lines with a 1:14 cascade that puts on 600kg of compression.

When disassembled, the parts nest inside each other, fitting readily into the boot of a family car or an SUV. Measuring 1.45m x 0.92m x 0.72m, the folded boat is also designed for easy fixing to a trailer or towing-ball platform behind a car.

Accessories that improve the storage and use of the boat include a bag, (€490); smaller padded bags for the four mast sections, centreboard, tiller and rudder; a mounting mat to protect the boat on rough surfaces (€170); and a folding beach trolley (€490). And there’s a GPS speedometer (€499), specially designed for mounting at the base of the mast.

Price: Reverso Air €8,913 plus €1,090 shipping.

Buy it now from Sailreverso

You don’t have to be a pro to get the AST Foiler skimming the waves. Photo: Sören Hese

Foiling is no longer limited to pros and daredevils. AST’s beautifully designed foiling dinghy makes it possible for almost anyone to experience the exhilaration of flying on water. With a top speed of 25 knots-plus and a really simple control system, it is easy to get airborne.

The key is the mechanical foiling system, which requires no trimming. A foil on each side of the 3.85m hull resembles nothing more than a giant spider’s leg, or a wonky ‘7’. The foils are loose-mounted in such a way that they can cant slightly according to the tack you’re on. When the boat goes about, the leeward foil rises and the new windward foil drops. It requires no electronics or hydraulics – just a bit of elementary physics.

You control the boat using a T-shaped rudder whose foil supports the boat aft and helps keep you balanced while foiling. With foils deployed, the effective beam jumps from 1.58m to 2.10m and the draught from 15cm to 1.10m, giving the boat excellent stability.

AST says the hull will fly from 8 knots of true wind, thanks in part to the lightweight layup, with an overall weight of 55kg. The foils, rudder and mast are all in carbon fibre, while the hull is in a lightweight foam-epoxy sandwich.

With a cool reverse bow, open transom and hiking wings, this boat looks the business. It can support up to 95kg of crew weight, so could in theory take two children. But this is really a solo sailer, designed for thrills and spills. AST offers two different sails, 7.5m2 or 9.5m2.

The foils can be folded flush to the hull for transport., there’s a custom-made aluminium trolley for launching and towing; padded covers for the foils and rudder (€269); and a Velocitek SpeedPuck to measure your speed (€399).

This is not a cheap option… but it is a fun one.

AST also does a non-foiling L12 Lowrider – a 3.82m planing performance dinghy, which weighs just 30kg.

Prices: AST Folier €15,631 inc VAT, L12 Lowrider €8,824 ex VAT.

Buy it now from Ast-yachts

IZIBoat is easy to transport and can be assembled in 15 minutes

IZIBoat germinated from a desire to make sailing easy, fun and accessible to all, by creating a catamaran that is ultra fast to assemble (less than 15 minutes). No tools are needed thanks to a neat plug, lock and tension system. While speeds of 14+ knots are reportedly achievable, it is more aimed at accessible sailing, regardless of age or ability. So it can seat four and is intuitive for new sailors thanks to joystick steering – just tilt the stick the way you want to turn.

The brainchild of François Tissier, who dreamed of a dinghy with ease and stability while living in the South Pacific, it took many years of R&D and 11 prototypes. The beach cat measures 500x62cm, so can easily be stored in a garage and its five components weigh 152kg, so it can be transported on the roof of a car or even towed by a bike or e-bike.

Price: from €8,990.

Buy it now from Iziboat

LiteboatXP 16 can be rowed or sailed – fast

LiteboatXP 16

This is a fun sailing boat that you can row properly for recreation too. The first Liteboat XP was a 20ft model which we tested four years ago and were so impressed with the sailing ability, we jointly gave it a European Yacht of the Year award. It’s also excellent for rowing enthusiasts. For those still sceptical, consider that it’s drawn by in-demand IMOCA designer Sam Manuard.

The new 5m/16ft model is more compact and lighter still (100kg). There’s no cuddy, but it still sports a sliding rowing seat, carbon oars and outriggers and a catboat-style rig with two part carbon mast and a 7.5m2 boom-less sail. But it’s when reaching with the 6m2 gennaker that you’ll really get the buzz. It converts from sailing to rowing mode in under a minute. It’s an efficient explorer that’s blast to sail, will keep you fit and avoids the need for a smelly, noisy outboard.

Price: from €14,500.

Buy it now from Liteboat

Best inflatable sailing tender

The black and yellow Tiwal rocket is designed in Brittany. Photo: Christiane le Port

The original Tiwal 3 is already marking its 10th anniversary, the design having been at the forefront of using drop stitch technology to create a really stiff inflatable. Now the boat has been turbo-charged, tweaked and improved. The result is the Tiwal 3R, with a top speed of 14 knots and a helming position just millimetres off the water.

It comes deflated in two bags weighing around 30kg each (plus a smaller sail bag), and comprises a concave inflatable hull and anodised aluminium ‘exoskeleton’, which transmits the forces from the mast, rudder and daggerboard. It also provides two raised hiking ‘wings’ which allow you to balance the 6m2 or 7m2 sail, tailor-made by North Sails in Xi V2 racing laminate.

The 3R’s performance boost stems from a number of small steps. For instance, the hiking bars have been extended aft so that you can shift weight back when the wind picks up. The aluminium frame is stronger and stiffer for better power transfer, and the hull is a more efficient shape, courtesy of the rail on the stern. The mast and boom are now 90% carbon for lighter weight.

Assembly takes 25 minutes – a little longer than the original Tiwals, because of the additional elements of the frame and control lines, according to founder Emmanuel Bertrand. Experience says there is a bit of fiddly slotting of aluminium tubes together, which can be trickier if sand gets into the joint. The boat is rated for crew up to 200kg, which allows for two adults or one grown-up and two children. Really, though, you want to be sailing this alone at top speed. And with a choice of two sails, you can go out in pretty much any conditions.

Price: from £8,140.

Buy it now from Tiwal

Dutch brand DinghyGo has built a reputation for the reliability of its growing range of sailing inflatables.

They are not performance oriented, but are easy to assemble, have bags of buoyancy and can be stored in two mid-sized bags. The range starts at 2.30m LOA, but the flagship Orca 375 is the latest release, with a 4.8m2 mainsail and a 1.1m2 jib.

The four-piece mast requires three soft stays to keep it aloft, while the foot is anchored through a thwart. With 650kg of payload capacity, you can bring three adults and a heap of camping gear with you.

Price: £4,000.

Buy it now from Dinghygo

Minicat Guppy

The Czech sailor behind the MiniCat brand teamed up with round-the-world sailor Laura Dekker to launch the Guppy.

At 3.00m LOA, it is the smallest boat in the Minicat range, with a capacity for two, but weighs a staggeringly small 26kg itself.

Perched on two big 33cm floats, just a small aluminium frame does the job of supporting the mast and the trampoline. The mast and its 3.9m2 sail is stayed to a short bowsprit, and the whole takes just 15 minutes to put together. Stub keel fins help reduce leeway.

Its light weight makes it eminently portable and easy to stow.

Price: €2,665 ex-VAT.

Buy it now from Minicatamaran

Inflatable Wingfoil

Granted, it can look a bit daft watching middle-aged folk pumping and flapping away while trying to get a giant inflatable wing to lift their mass onto a skinny foil. But once you’ve experienced that feeling of pure flight, silently skimming over the surface, there’s no going back.

Whether for surfing, windsurfing, or even kiting, any solid boards take up valuable locker space. All of which arguably makes an inflatable foil board and an inflatable wing the ultimate in compact sailing fun.

The foils typically disconnect from their masts and pack in protective bags. The inflatable boards can also be used to wingsurf or paddle on in displacement mode. Or try towing one behind a tender – with a foil you only need very small speeds (around 6 knots) and, with practice, you can be surfing a wee wake.

The smaller volume boards better suit surf and wingfoil use and the larger boards are for wing and SUP enthusiasts.

F-One’s Rocket Air is designed around its rigid boards, and range from 75lt (4ft 11in) to 185lt (7ft 11in) and prices from £625-£825.

Buy it now from f-one.world

Naish, meanwhile, has models of its new Hover board from 80-170lt, which have composite carbon plates on the bottom for the foil join for a stiff ride.

Buy it now from Naishfoils

If you enjoyed this….

Yachting World is the world’s leading magazine for bluewater cruisers and offshore sailors. Every month we have inspirational adventures and practical features to help you realise your sailing dreams. Build your knowledge with a subscription delivered to your door. See our latest offers and save at least 30% off the cover price.

Tested: 4 of the best inflatable tenders

The Yachting World team take to the water in 4 new inflatable tenders to see which will be best for you and your yacht

Tenders are so much more than taxis. They can add freedom, sport and exploration to any stopover or anchorage, particularly if your yacht is large enough to carry a rigid dinghy, mini RIB or folding alternative. If not, however, that means investing in one of a number of inflatable tenders that are small and light enough to pack away in a locker when not in use.

Thanks to the invention of the high pressure air deck the latest generation of lightweight inflatable tenders are remarkably stable craft that can be rowed or powered by an outboard engine yet still be easily stowed.

We tested a range of different 2.3-2.4m inflatables, all with air deck floors and an emphasis on light weight and compact packaging, and picked out the best.

We rowed and motored all of the boats solo and with two aboard as well as weighing, measuring and comparing specifications. The size, shape and quality of the carry bag as well as the pumps supplied can also make a surprising difference to the speed and ease of inflating and deflating each tender.

Inflatable tenders tested

Crewsaver air deck 230.

While the Crewsaver rucksack doesn’t have a front pocket for storing accessories, there are no zips to corrode and the adjustable webbing buckles mean the top opening of the bag is quite forgiving for repacking.

The safety lines are robustly attached to the hull, the rubbing strake also adds durability and the splash guards help keep water out of the boat. Hard plastic coned aft sponson caps enable vertical storage without damage and the rowlocks double as cleats.

There are davit rings in the bow and through the transom board, plus the bow handle is wide for ergonomic carrying. The inflatable deck feels sturdy but lacks the V-shape or inflatable keel so it’s not quite as comfortable in a chop.

Specifications:

Inflated size: 230x130cm Packed size: 95x55x35cm Weight overall: 23kg Max engine: 4hp Max load: 350kg

Buy it now from Crewsaver

YAM 240 STi Air Floor Sport Tender

The Yamaha features an inflatable keel as well as a floor section, plus two sponsons, and with that much to inflate a high quality pump would have been better. There is, though, a pressure gauge with the package to get everything sufficiently firm.

The seat is fixed but the long oars made it the nicest boat to row. The rowlocks double as cleats and the rounded aft end of the sponsons have protective, hard plastic caps. There are no safety lines fitted and the carry handles are spread far apart, which makes carrying it a little more awkward than it should be. But there is a good, ergonomic bow carry handle and the boat is rated to carry the most load on test (up to 400kg/5hp).

Inflated size: 240x123cm Packed size: 120x60x30cm Weight overall: 27kg Max engine: 5hp Max load: 400kg

Buy it now from Yamaha

3D Twin V Shape 230 Air Deck Tender

This French manufacturer was one of the earliest producers of ultralight inflatable tenders. This model sports premium touches, such as davit rings and the best pump on test (dual chamber hand pump). It packs away into a rucksack carry bag with a large front pocket for the pump and accessories.

The inflatable V-floor makes for a stable ride with easy handling under engine or oars and uses a single chamber design, keeping set-up time to a minimum. The rowlocks double as cleats and the rubbing strake provides extra protection for the tubes but little in the way of splash-proofing for passengers.

Overall a high quality tender that performs well and strikes a good balance between weight, convenience and price.

Inflated size: 230x130cm Packed siz e: 90x45x40cm Weight overall: 24kg Max engine: 3.5hp Max load: 350kg

Buy it now from Marine Superstore

Quicksilver Tendy Air Floor 240

This has an inflatable keel as well as a removable inflatable floor. A rigid slat athwartships between the floor and keel also helps to maintain its shape and rigidity but increases the weight.

The heaviest boat on test, the Quicksilver is one of the largest in packed dimensions but it is also one of the best equipped. It features a fuel tank strap, a robust keel strip to prevent damage on slipways, a decent bow carry handle, rowlock cleats and an adjustable seat. The rubbing strake is quite chunky and the carry bag very forgiving.

It doesn’t have carry handles on the sponsons and the safety rope fixings aren’t as solid as some of the other boats on test.

A smart and robust tender albeit with a weight penalty attached.

Inflated size: 240×132 Packed size: 110x50x31 Weight overall: 28.5kg Max engine: 4hp Max load: 390kg

Buy it now from Boats and Outboards

If you enjoyed this….

Yachting World is the world’s leading magazine for bluewater cruisers and offshore sailors. Every month we have inspirational adventures and practical features to help you realise your sailing dreams. Build your knowledge with a subscription delivered to your door. See our latest offers and save at least 30% off the cover price.

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TRUE KIT INFLATABLE CATAMARANS

The catamaran advantage.

We strive to keep the weight out of our inflatable catamaran range to make our dinghies manageable by anyone. Carrying and rowing these boats is a breeze, and for our larger designs we have our exclusive QuickLok Dingy Launching Wheels. 

Whether you are using your True Kit as a tender and need to pull it onboard the mothership, or your True Kit is the water-going extension of your caravan, keeping it light is critical. The secret is in our thermo-welded seams and superior fabrics, which help us to remove all unnecessary weight from the boat.

All True Kit, our inflatable catamarans are designed to be packed down and travelled with easily. We use the finest German-made fabrics that are flexible and durable to be folded and unfolded again and again.

Because our boats are so portable, they can be launched from more remote areas of lakes and waterways - giving you the best experience on the water.

Experience what we call "stand up stability". The nature of inflatable catamarans means all the buoyancy is on the outside. This provides an incredibly stable platform for stepping in and out of the dinghy.

True Kit inflatable catamaran's have a hull that has significantly less drag than a typical deep-v hull. This efficiency allows owners to have the option to use much smaller, lighter, more affordable outboard engines. You need less horsepower to enjoy a thrilling ride.

This also makes it the perfect boat for a small electric outboard - maximizing the the range and speed.

DISCOVER THE TRUE KIT RANGE

PERFECT FOR ALL ADVENTURES

YACHT TENDER

EVERY TRUE KIT IS BUILT TO LAST

THERMO-WELDED SEAMS

Seams are regularly the Achilles Heel fo inflatable boat’s, but not with the True Kit range. We thermo-weld all of our seams for a bond that is stronger than the fabric itself. Don’t settle for glued seams.

TRUE-ALU TRANSOM

Our transom ensures direct power transfer from the engine to the boat with a strong, lightweight aluminum design. Finished with a marine-quality AkzoNobel powder coat, it’s built to last for years to come.

VALMEX FABRIC

For top quality and durability, we use Valmex® fabric by Mehler, Germany’s leading textile producer. Valmex® offers superior flexibility, UV resistance, and airtightness, making it ideal for long-lasting inflatables.

"True Kit inflatables are uniquely brilliant. Light to handle on land whilst stable and safe on the water."

Martin Woodhouse, True Kit Discovery Owner

At True Kit we commit to dispatching your order in 1-3 business days. You will receive tracking notifications as soon as your order is on its way. Our aim is to help get you out on the water as soon as possible.

We stand behind the quality and durability of our inflatable catamarans because all our boats go through a rigorous testing protocol. That's why we offer an industry-leading 5-year warranty on all our boats. Enjoy long-term peace of mind with every purchase, knowing that your True Kit is built to last and protected by our comprehensive warranty coverage.

Enjoy a seamless purchase experience with True Kit Direct, where all our inflatable catamarans come directly from us to you, ensuring you benefit from expert advice and substantial savings. By eliminating middlemen, we offer you not just lower prices but also a closer connection to the brand that crafts your boat. Our direct-to-customer approach guarantees personalized service and the best value, enhancing your buying experience with expert insights and exclusive benefits.

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Experience the perfect True Kit Discovery and Navigator set-ups, with all the accessories your new boat will need. All assembled professionally before it leaves our store ready for you out-of-the-box.

Our innovative designs are based on an ultra-efficient catamaran platform, which means our boats out-perform most

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Testimonials

Easiest boat I have ever bought and staff were excellent and very helpful. Absolutely no problem purchasing from Australia and better than anything I could buy in Australia.

Great looking boat I haven't had the time to use the boat yet, but have assembled and inflated the boat. Compared to the Zodiac Granride MK3, it's a lot lighter, and the inflatable deck is much easier then the zodiacs hard deck to get in place. So just from looking at the TrueKit, i think the quality is up at the zodiac level, and looking forward to try out the boat in the water!

We’ve had our boat for a few weeks now, and I can honestly say we love it. It’s super stable and planes easily. It is super light, so loading it correctly matters, but that is super easy to do.

Discovery 330 has exceeded my expectations after my sea trials and break in of my Yamaha F6. Set up with the supplied hand pump worked well. Spring loaded wheels are a must have. Once inflated inspection of the seams and construction confirmed my research that this is a high quality craft that will provide years of enjoyment. After break in of my Yamaha with one person onboard the F6 pushed her along nicely.

52 Glenmore Road Coatesville Auckland 0793 New Zealand Phone  +6499507017

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Hightfield 2021

Ultralite Series

The lightest weight with the ultimate durability

Why Ultralite?

The Ultralite Series RIBs are the ultimate in lightweight and durability.  Aluminum hulls that are chromated before powder coating so they will last a lifetime.  If weight, durability and reliability are important to you these boats are exactly what you need.

Ultralite 340FD

3.37 m / 11'1"

Ultralite 340

Ultralite 310fd.

3.13 m / 10'3"

Ultralite 310

Ultralite 290ss.

2.90 m / 9'6"

Ultralite 290LT

2.88 m / 9'5"

Ultralite 290FD

Ultralite 260ss.

2.60 m / 8'6"

Ultralite 260LT

2.62 m / 8'7"

Ultralite 240SS

2.40 m / 7'10"

Ultralite 240LT

Ultralite 220ss.

2.20 m / 7'3"

Classic 260

Our smallest Classic tender

Our smallest Classic tender. This compact model can carry 4 people, making it ideal for short trips. Agile & strong offering a 360kg payload whilst remaining lightweight & super manageable.  

Key Features

Specifications

Overall Length

Internal Length

Overall Width

Internal Width

Tube Diameter

# of Air Chambers

Maximum Load

Maximum People

Boat only Weight

Engine Shaft

Design Category

Package size for boat (l x w x h)

220 x 105 x 43.8cm

7'3" x 3'6" x 1'5", standard features.

• ORCA® Hypalon or PVC tube
• Flush mount non-return valves
• High tensile chromated & powder coated aluminum hull
• Bow locker (Fit 24L fuel tank)
• Integrated transom supports
• Lifting points and towing eyes
• Heavy duty rubbing strake
• Bow cushion
• Welded seams (PVC)
• Removable seat
• Tow bridle points
• Brushed foam teak finish deck
• Full length keel guard
• Tank strap kit
• Under seat bag
• Highfield dry bag
• Foot pump, oars, repair kit

Optional Equipment

• FRP Bow Step
• Molded bow cleat

We sailed around the world and we couldn’t be happier of our decision with the dinghy! It has been by far the best companion for our circumnavigation. Amazing quality, durability and must of all safety and fun! Thank you Highfield

Sailing Vessel Maroro (@sv.maroro)

Adventure Locker

Vendee globe, are you ready to explore, our partners.

• Classic 290
• Classic 310
• Classic 340
• Classic 360
• Classic 380
• Classic 400
• Classic 420
• Classic 460

The Best Lightweight Dinghies For Easy Transport

If you’re always out fishing or just cruising the water, you can benefit from the best lightweight dinghies. 

LIghtweight dinghies are more practical to use in sailing, fishing, or any water sport activity than the traditional kayak or canoe. These boats are small enough to be lightweight but spacious enough to fit you, your buddies, and your gear. 

You won’t have to spend too much effort in hauling and carrying these boats as they come in a carry bag. They are easy to carry, handle, and set up. 

Here are the best lightweight dinghies you will have no problem transporting and maneuvering. 

• Takacat 260 LX Innovative Tender
• Saturn SD365 Inflatable Dinghy
• Intex Explorer K2 Kayak 
• Bris Inflatable Dinghy
• Newport Vessels

5 Best Lightweight Dinghies

1. takacat 260 lx innovative tender.

When you think of lightweight dinghy, the first boat tender that tops the list is the Takacat 260 LX Innovative Tender. The Takacat brand features a standard removable stainless steel Tube Transom system for versatility, portability, and safety.

This allows the inflatable dinghy to be rolled up smaller, easier, and lighter than the traditional inflatable boats. We consider the Takacat as the best lightweight dinghy as it offers excellent advantages in many water conditions.

You can board three people in this heavy-duty boat tender as it has a weight capacity of 360kg and is constructed with custom-made PVC. It has a built-in quick-release wheel and rod holder fittings, perfectly convenient for a fishing trip with your buddies.

Plus, it has a fully open transom design and a raised air deck floor. This design does not allow the pooling of water on board, making it a perfect inflatable dive boat . Takacat inflatable brand features another series of LX inflatable boats that make an excellent heavy-duty dinghy while still being lightweight and portable.

Plus, transportation and storage is not a problem with this Takacat inflatable boat as the bulk is decreased when packed away.

2. Saturn SD365 Inflatable Dinghy

Saturn offers one of the lighter alternatives to traditional water activity boats that are heavier. The SD365 features a rigid hull and strong removable aluminum seat benches for excellent performance and comfort.

The heavy-duty PVC fabric and polyester support make the Saturn boat resistant to tearing, tension and breaking. It has double layers of fabric at the bottom of its tubes and a rub-strake protector along the keel for extra protection against sharp rocks and abrasive sand.

The Saturn inflatable boat features improved durability and practicality with its lightweight design. You can comfortably fit at least four people inside this dinghy without worrying about boatload.

3. Intex Explorer K2 Kayak 

Sporty and fun is the highlight of Intex Explorer Kayak as its design is convenient for easy paddling. This lightweight inflatable dinghy features an adjustable seat with a backrest for maximum comfort of the cruiser. Intex has its SKEG removable for the directional stability of the boat.

You won’t have a problem spotting your dinghy when diving as this comes in a bright yellow color for high visibility to other boaters and you. Intex provides a grab line and handles per end of the boat for the convenience of people boarding.

It comes with a US Coast Guard id and a repair kit for boating emergencies. They used Boston valves to allow you to inflate and deflate this boat without rushing for time quickly. Intex is lightweight and compact to make your water experience fun, convenient, and light. 

4. Bris Inflatable Dinghy

Bris’sBris’s inflatable dinghy is made with premium quality PVC materials that make up its heavy-duty design and tearing resistance. The welded seams of this dinghy allow it to last in different water conditions and humidity.

You can stand, walk or jump on board like you were on a hard floor as the high-pressure inflatable air deck floor makes for very stable support. The transoms have triangular splash guard covers for minimal backsplash and protection of the holders from heat and UV exposures.

5. Newport Vessels

Newport Vessels provide one of the best dinghies to offer light water travel. This USCG-rated PVC tender dinghy is resistant to corrosion. Plus, it ensures protection against the sun, salt, and other elements that may destroy the boat.

This dinghy’s lightweight design does not compromise its quality as it can handle both two or four-stroke motors. Plus, you get to have an easy registration with this boat as it comes with complete original paperwork. It’s also compatible with electric trolling motors .

How to Transport an Inflatable Dinghy

With lightweight dinghies, transport shouldn’t be a problem. The selling point of these inflatable boats is its portability and easy handling. There are many ways to transport your inflatable boats to the spot you would like to start cruising.

Deflating and folding it in a small carry bag remains to be the best and easiest way to make use of its portability and fit it into your car.

You can also put these heavy-duty dinghies on boat decks because their size and weight allow them to sit flat without the need for a cradle. Or keep them on your roof racks deflated or inflated; it doesn’t matter as these products are unbeatable when it comes to storage and portability. 

Insider Advice

If you’ve found the best lightweight dinghy for your little water trip, make sure you know how to maneuver it and bring extra repair kits for safety purposes. We advise you to take the  California-approved boating safety courses  for a safe sailing trip. 

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Inflatable boat tenders

Choose an inflatable boat tender to complement your main boat. Agility and technical expertise have been integrated into a range of dinghies that you can fit with an engine for extra power. With 13 dinghy models available in our 2 tender  ranges : CADET and NOMAD, you are guaranteed to find the perfect model !

Inflatable dinghy with inflatable floor

Very simple and above all really compact! Completely flexible, including the floor, it can be folded and stored in less than 2 minutes in a suitable bag!

CADET RIB ALU

RIB dinghy with aluminium hull

A truly solid-hull dinghy (aluminium), which provides the best in stability and safety on board!

Inflatable dinghy with aluminium floor

An aluminium floor, which can be put in place in no time for maximum stability.

Nomad RIB Alu

New tenders with a double floor, waterproof storage, and top-quality tubes!

OUR NAVIGATION PROGRAMS

A dinghy is a boat that is highly recommended to provide assistance as a tender when necessary for trips between the boat and the shore or the port, but also to access remote places. Easy to use on a daily basis, light and robust, your inflatable dinghy will accompany you on all your adventures on the water. With high-end PVC or Hypalon Neoprene construction and a sturdy hull , this rigid inflatable boat offers exceptional durability, ensuring years of uncompromising use. Its lightweight, compact design, combined with ease of storage, makes it the ideal companion for all your nautical escapades. These boats can offer quality seats for passengers while keeping high performance on water.

The versatility of the inflatable tender boat

The inflatable boat tender allows you to reach land when your main boat is moored, to operate  to places that are less accessible with your main boat and also to go fishing or snorkeling. Useful for everyday activities , it is easy to handle so it can be quickly stored in your yacht, sailboat or catamaran, requiring minimal use of davits . Lightweight, robust and easily foldable, the dinghies are equipped with wide tubes to provide more stability on board. The inflatable and foldable tube also enables easy storage and space saving. There are several sizes available to allow you to adapt the length of the boat to the number of people on board, the application and the boating  area.

Get your tender boat for your main boat

The tender's versatility is reflected in its ease of maneuverability and transport. Its quick inflation and convenient deflation mean you spend less time preparing and more time enjoying the water. Whether you're a fishing or diving enthusiast, or simply looking for a hassle-free boating experience, the inflatable tender boat is suitable for all occasions. Take on the waves with confidence , explore hidden coves and create lasting memories with the inflatable tender boat. The equipment and accessories on board are also designed to ensure the comfort of the captain and passengers : removable seat, lifting points, waterproof bag, paddles, handles, repair kit, etc.

• 6 ft inflatable boats and above
• 13 ft boats and above
• 19 ft boats and above
• 26 ft boats and above

ALL CAPABILITIES

• 4 people boats and above
• 6 people boats and above
• 10 people boats and above
• 14 people boats and above
• 20 people boats and above

About the Aspen Carbon Cat

Aspen Carbon Cats are ultra light weight, durable tenders made of carbon fiber with a super-efficient hull design.

MEET THE CARBON CAT

Unique patent applied for design, made for durability.

This hybrid design starts with a deep single-entry forefoot that smoothly cleaves through waves for improved tracking and spray resistance. The hull contour then gently widens aft and at the stern resembles a modified catamaran hull which provides lateral stability and lift. This unique hull form is so special we applied for patents on the design.

From the experienced boat building team at  Aspen Power Catamarans  comes a new series of lightweight rigid tenders that are unlike any boat built before. Carbon Cat’s unique patent in process hull form provides unparalleled stability, better than comparable small catamarans or inflatable RIBs. In addition to stability their lightweight carbon fiber construction makes them fast, efficient, easy to handle and extremely durable.

The gunwale is finished with a thick foam bumper made with SeaDek HD for durability and to eliminate scratches and abrasions. The seating area is also cushioned with SeaDek creating a softer surface and better grip.

The amazing Carbon Cat construction and design means that the power requirements should be 35% less than typical inflatables due to the hard bottom and hybrid cat hull shape. During sea trials the T11 reached a top speed of 21mph powered by a single 9.9hp Yamaha outboard. This is an incredible speed to HP ratio superior to other tenders.

Using more moderate horsepower increases fuel efficiency and reduces weight. This makes Carbon Cats and their engines easier to stow onboard and easier to launch and retrieve. Optional transom wheels make beaching the Carbon Cat even simpler.

Got Questions? Visit our FAQ ‘s or Contact Us .

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The most versatile limousine tenders on the market

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Lonian, our bespoke carbon limousine tender

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Amels 60' launched with Xtenders 9.0m limousine on board!

Our latest landing craft

launched in August last year and for sale

One of our most recent launches

Bespoke carbon limousine tenders

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Perfect fit for any tender bay

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The 16m Xtenders exploration tender

Our goal and privilege is to offer the ultimate custom carbon superyacht tender and outstanding customer service.

We deliver lightweight durable tenders that perform like no other boat. Designed and built to exhilarate, each Xtender is built from carbon fibre using Formula 1 technology.

Whatever the purpose, dimensions, configuration or drive train of the tender may be, we will beautifully integrate them into one greatly performing bespoke craft that is perfectly in tune with your yacht.

We offer a complete custom solution for your yacht. Your tender starts with a blank sheet of paper, your ambition and our expertise.

Ultimate yacht match

Xtenders is trusted by the best in the yacht industry to deliver a custom tender built to maximum size, usability and individual character of the yacht.

Client involvement

Just like with the yacht, we take you on a journey towards a vessel that will best suit your wishes and user requirements.

Full carbon

To guarantee the best material properties each tender is built exclusively from carbon fibre using Formula One technology.

Carbon fibre doesn’t fatigue. Being engineered and built to withstand the highest impacts our tenders are virtually unbreakable.

Lightweight

Using pre-preg carbon fibre technology allows us to reduce the total weight of the structure up to half of the industries standards.

Our tenders

The custom solution for your yacht

Inflatables & D-ribs

Beachlanders, solas rescue.

Chase series

The ultimate chase vessel

We are trusted by the best in the yacht industry

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• +31 (0)36 76 09 610
• Check our brochure