I have a light 2.4m with a 3.3hp Mercury. It isn't PVC, some other heavy duty material. I think a heavier 2.4m with the Mercury is better. I had one but it was too bulky for my boat, the reason for getting the lighter dinghy.

I bought a 3.5 metre inflatable "canoe" off Gumtree for $60. Been used 3 times but looks new. New they are $600. Its like an inflatable dinghy but the ends are the same except one end has an outboard mount. 3.5m long and and 1 m wide. The idea was to carry it folded up in the forward cabin but it is a bit bulky and heavy! Getting it through the hatch will be a major evolution.

My neighbouring yacht just had his inflatable stolen, they are one of the most common items stolen next to anchors. He is looking for a hard dinghy to replace it but as an interim measure, has bought a vinyl inflatable for about $90 new. Very impressive bit of kit for the money and not to be confused with kids blow up dinghies. I have one of these too, I paid $20 for and its handy.

SirJman said..

I personally don't use a motor, just oars. However on some windy days I almost wish I had some horse power as the inflatables don't track well (no keel).

Didn't you know?? Inflatable tenders are the best downwind sailing boats in the world.

The only inflatable I know that rows reasonably is the Avon Red Crest.