If you ask what are the most popular boats today, the answer will be rigid inflatable boats (RIB) and fiberglass boats. Seeing from their functions and designs, both share some similarities. However, there are still other things that distinct them from each other. Should we compare between inflatable boat and fiberglass one?
Find out what rigid inflatable boat is
Rigid inflatable boats are high-performance powerboats constructed with a solid hull and inflatable tubes or sponsons around the outer edge. They are lightweight and stable. Their great stability come from the shock-absorbing qualities to go against the impact of waves. A composite material like fiberglass or aluminum are what the hull consisted of. The hull is also surrounded by rubber, caves, and other inflatable materials.
Learn what fiberglass boat is
Fiberglass boats are short for ‘fiber reinforced plastic’ which refers to the various weaves of glass fiber cloth that are laid down in alternating layers of resins such as polyester, vinyl ester, or epoxy. The construction of fiberglass boat is the most common way boats are built. They are built from a mold that escapes multiple layers of fiberglass cloth or matt and resin. They cure together to form a hull shape.
Best 4 reasons to buy an inflatable boat over a fiberglass
After learning a bit more about the two boats above, here are 4 reasons why buying an inflatable boat is more worth purchasing than a fiberglass one:
Less maintenance
You can expect to spend about 10 percent of your boat’s purchase price on annual maintenance. Fiberglass boats are more expensive than RIBs which means they require more expensive maintenance cost. For an electric rib boat, you may just have to clean and wax the hull. You may also need to maintain the outboard engine and those are pretty much all maintenance cost you need to expect.
Easier to store and transport
Rigid inflatable boat is smaller compared to fiberglass one. You may need a small closet or interior space to store it. Meanwhile, fiberglass boat requires shed, garage, or storage rental at boatyard. In addition, fiberglass boats require some type of trailer to transport. Meanwhile, inflatable boats are pretty small in size so you can transport them in your car trunk, RV, or truck bed.
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Better at handling rougher waters
RIBS boats have great physical flexibility. This quality allows them to handle rougher waters better compared to fiberglass ones. RIB have inflatable collar that can absorb a lot of off-keel impact if a wave hits the boat at an oblique angle.
Easier to maneuver
Inflatable boats can compete with other types of boats when it comes to maneuverability. They can cut through waves easier. They can also turn sharper and quicker. They can get out of tight spots very easily. They can perform at high speeds in any type of water condition. Their agility and flexibility are better compared to fiberglass boats. An inflatable boat has better overall value than fiberglass boats in performance, features, maintenance, safety, durability, as well as price.
Edra Maulana