Inflatable boat and semi-rigid boat, what are the differences ?

Inflatable boats and RIBs are two types of boats that have significant differences.

Although both are inflatable boats, the materials used in their construction, use and performance differ considerably.

In this article, we will examine the differences between these two types of boats to avoid confusion. 

What is an inflatable boat? 

Inflatable boats are made from flexible materials, such as PVC or rubber, which are inflated with air. They are lightweight and easy to store, making them ideal for occasional use or for sea trips.

However, they are not very resistant to harsh weather or waves, and their performance in terms of speed and maneuverability is limited.

What is the difference with a semi-rigid boat?

Semi-rigid boats, on the other hand, are made from more rigid materials such as aluminum, wood or fiberglass, and have a rigid floor in addition to an inflatable part.

They are heavier than inflatable boats and require more space for storage. However, they are much more resistant to harsh weather and waves, offer better performance in terms of speed and maneuverability, and are therefore preferred for more frequent and demanding use.

Inflatable or semi-rigid boat, for repairs, only one choice !

Inflatable boats may differ from RIBs as we have seen, but what about repairs? If both types of boats have inflated bladders, can the same methods be used? 

The answer is yes! When it comes to boat repair fabrics, Hypalon fabric is considered the best choice for inflatable boats .

It is made from synthetic rubber, which is extremely resistant to wear, UV rays, chemicals and heat. Hypalon is also very flexible and does not crack easily, even in cold weather.

Hypalon repair fabrics by Orca Retail are specially designed to repair inflatable and RIB boats, offering a quick and easy solution for minor damage.