Sevylor HF280

[nathans]

We are new to boating, and want to expose my grandchildren to boating. I don't plan to use a motor, and have been researching inflatable boats. As you are aware, they range in price from super cheap to super expensive, and I would like something simple yet durable in a middle price range. I came across the Sevylor line of inflatables which seem to be priced in the middle ramge, between expensive and cheap.<br /><br />The Sevylor HF280 caught my attention. Is this a decent choice, or should I just bite the bullit and spend $600-$1,000.00 for a "better" inflatable. <br /><br />My main concern is for durability and tears, such as when scraping a rock, etc.<br /><br />Nathan

 

[Jdeagro]

Re: Sevylor HF280

Sevylor, It is an 8.5" plastic boat (made by Zodiac), which I assume is selling for $250 to $300. It is not going to do what you want. Spend the $600 to $1000. That is the low end of the "inflatable boats".

 

[Luna Sea]

Re: Sevylor HF280

We need more info nathans!<br /><br />I read this earlier and decided to keep my mouth shut, about the Sevylor. I think of them more as a big pool toy, you're not telling us where you boat. Fresh or salt? If you're on a lake and are going to remain in the "swimming area", it'll do you fine. I've yet to see one of those out in a harbor or on open water. Well, one guy used to use one of those to get out to his mooring, but he'd be out of breath and all p'd off by the time he got out there. Then he got the trolling motor and started lugging heavy batterys around, still couldn't beat the current. They don't row all that well against a current. With kids in it? How are you going to row? If you want a row boat, buy a rowing skiff. If you want an inflateable, at least get one you can put a 2 or 3 horse on. For your safety and the kids, don't put that Sevylor in the ocean!!!

 

[Drowned Rat]

Re: Sevylor HF280

nathans, good advice so far. The "Fish Hunter" boats like the HF280 are, in my opinion, the nicest of the super cheap boats. I don't say that sarcastically. They really are okay for a $100 boat. They actually are PVC boats that you can install wood floor in. They also sell nylon wraps for them to stiffen them up and help with abrasion. You can mount gas outboards on them too if you ever decided to. 2.5hp max for the 12' model. A trolling motor is plenty though. I think it's a decent first boat for a small kid. Luna Sea is right, they don't row well at all. Get a small troller to mount on it and you'll enjoy it a lot more.

 

[Luna Sea]

Re: Sevylor HF280

Hope I wasn't too harsh on you. Here's some good reading on inflatables....<br /><br /> http://www.cruisingworld.com/article.jsp?ID=201845&typeID=396&catID=569

 

[Terry Olson]

Re: Sevylor HF280

If were going to spend $500 - $1,000 I'd look for a small rowboat rather than going with an inflatable. You can put a small outboard or trolling motor on it and best of all it won't sink like an inflatable can - which would really worry me boating with kids.<br /><br />If you're up for it check out some of the boats you can build at www.glenl.com. You can build quite a boat for $1,000 and it's a great hobby requiring very few tools and little if any experience in working with wood. Might be a good option if you have more time than money.