Inflatable boats are a convenient and versatile option for recreational boating, fishing trips, and short water excursions. They’re lightweight, easy to transport, and simple to set up, making them ideal for beginners and casual users. If you’re new to inflatable boats, understanding how to prepare and use one properly can make a big difference in both safety and enjoyment. This guide walks you through the essential steps to help you get started with confidence.
What Should You Do Before Using Your Inflatable Boat
Preparation is important for a smooth and safe experience on the water. Before using your inflatable boat, here are a few key things you should pay attention to:
1. Investigate the conditions along your planned route, particularly tides, winds, waves,
currents, and known underwater obstacles such as reefs and rocks. Tell other persons your time and place of departure, your proposed route, and your expected time of return. If your route is a long one away from other people, prepare food, emergency supplies such
as a first aid kit and flares, and containers for any waste.
2. Check that your boat has been correctly prepared as described in Setup.
• If you have allowed the boat to sit for more than a day or two, check that it remains properly inflated.
• If the boat is to be used at high altitude, adjust the pressure appropriately.
3. Carry your boat into the water with one or more other people.
• If necessary, secure the boat using the front hooks and your mooring rope (B).
• If there is a strong temperature difference between the shore and the boat, confirm that
the raft remains properly inflated in the water.
Note: DO NOT drag your boat from place to place.
4. Fit your life jackets or other personal floatation devices on everyone who will ride in your boat. Load any other necessary supplies or emergency equipment required in your area.
5. Check that the combined weight of the crew, supplies, and any motor is WITHIN the boat’s capacity listed on the transom ID plate.
6. Board the boat, distributing weight as evenly as possible around the beam and centerline.
Note:
• The crew SHOULD generally avoid standing or sitting on the gunwales of the boat.
• Rowers SHOULD sit on the seat facing back (aft).
• If using an outboard motor, everyone SHOULD sit on the deck of the boat.
• Small children SHOULD always sit within the boat, NEVER on the sides.
• NO one SHOULD ever sit on the bow.
If using the oars (F), make sure they have been properly installed with the thole pins (J).
If using an outboard motor, attach its safety lanyard to the boat and make any necessary
adjustments.
• The middle of the propeller SHOULD be parallel to the surface of the water at the
appropriate depth and the appropriate distance from the transom.
• The specific distances vary by model, the boat’s load, the load’s distribution, and the
water condition.
• Confirm them carefully by trial and error at rest and at low speeds.
If the propeller is angled up or too far from the transom, the bow will rise during use.
If the propeller is angled down or too close to the transom, the bow will nose down
during use.
If the propeller is too high, it may slip during turns.
If the propeller is too slow, it will splash water over the transom.
• NEVER allow ropes to trail in the water while using a motor.
How to Use an Inflatable Boat
In this guide, we’ll use the CO-Z 7.5ft Inflatable Boat for 2 as a practical example to demonstrate how to use an inflatable boat. Please note that usage methods may vary depending on the model and brand, so it’s always important to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific product. In general, the use of an inflatable boat can be divided into four main scenarios: rowing, motorized use, towing, and anchoring.
Part 1 Rowing
1. Pull the handles towards you while keeping the upper edge of the blades even with the
water’s surface, moving them towards the stern and pushing your boat forward.
2. Use your wrists to feather your blades out of the water at about a 45° angle.
3. Turn the blades flat and push the handles to recover, returning your oars to their initial
positions.
• To turn the boat right (to starboard) while facing aft, hold your left oar in the water
without motion while rowing normally with your right oar.
Note: Reverse this when facing forward.
• To turn the boat left (to port) while facing aft, hold your right oar in the water while
rowing normally with your left oar.
Note: Reverse this when facing forward.
• To stop, drop the oars in the water and hold or reverse your usual motion.
Note: ALWAYS be careful that NO one is struck by the oar handles or blades throughout your range of motion and when boating and deploying the oars.
• The closer the oar handles are to one another, the more force you will usually be able
to use.
• If sitting amidship on the seat while facing aft, place the blades of the oars in the water
towards the bow behind you.
• Try to catch the water on both sides at the same time.
• For best results, keep your feet planted, your hands level, and your back straight as
much as possible through these motions.
• Practice setting a course and maintaining it by looking at your boat’s wake while
allowing for wind and water conditions until you seldom need to break your rhythm to
look forward. Be sure that this does NOT cause you to encounter hazards, other vessels, or swimmers in the water.
Part 2 Motorized Use
Observe your motor’s separate manual.
Pay particular attention to the following safety instructions.
Important Note:
• NEVER use your motor in any location where its fumes CANNOT be fully ventilated. Some exhaust components are invisible, odorless, and deadly. They can accumulate near the motor on calm days even in open water. Cease your motor IMMEDIATELY and use your oars to return to shore if you begin to feel dizzy, nauseous, or drowsy.
• ALWAYS use your motor’s safety lanyard if it has one.
• ALWAYS accelerate and decelerate as smoothly as possible.
• ALWAYS be aware of any areas with wake or noise restrictions along your path,
particularly at docks and marinas.
• ALWAYS reduce speed and be especially careful of weight distribution during turns.
• ALWAYS keep the crew sitting on the deck of the boat while the motor is active.
• Cease your motor IMMEDIATELY and use the oars to return to shore if you ever begin
to lose control of your boat or if your motor malfunctions during use.
Part 3 Towing
ALWAYS tow using the handles on your boat. For best results, use soft tow ropes and remove any outboard motor prior to towing, storing it on the other vessel. Have at least one person observe the boat throughout the tow so that you can respond quickly to any problems.
Note: NEVER let anyone remain in the boat while it is being towed by another vessel.
Part 4 Docking and Anchoring
ALWAYS moor and anchor your boat using the bow hooks on your boat.
• DO NOT allow anyone to place ANY body parts outside the boat during the process.
• If you are using an outboard motor, ALWAYS cut power BEFORE approaching a dock or pier.
Safety Tips for Air Chamber Failure
In the event that one air chamber fails during use:
1. Move everyone and your supplies to the opposite side of the boat.
2. Do your best to repair or secure the leaking chamber, tying or holding it out of the water.
3. Proceed immediately to the nearest shore.
4. Repair your boat before resuming use.
On long days and in adverse conditions, periodically check that the air chambers remain
properly inflated during use. Open the valves to partially deflate the chambers or use the foot pump to reinflate them as needed. The air inside the chambers can expand during warm days or contract as evening approaches. Be particularly careful if it is unavoidable to leave the boat on a hot surface or in direct sunlight for a prolonged period.
Recommended Inflatable Boat: CO-Z 7.5ft Inflatable Boat for 2
If you’re looking for a compact and reliable inflatable boat for recreational use, the CO-Z 7.5ft Inflatable Boat for 2 is a practical option worth considering:
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Durable Construction: Made from 1000 Denier PVC with reinforced quadruple-overlap seams for enhanced resistance to wear, punctures, UV exposure, and oxidation
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Comfortable for Two: Supports up to 660 lb and features an aluminum alloy floorboard and seat for improved stability and comfort
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Enhanced Safety Design: Three air chambers help maintain buoyancy in case of a puncture, while the V-shaped hull improves balance and handling
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Motor-Ready: Compatible with motors up to 5 hp, making it suitable for fishing, light water sports, or casual exploration
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Complete Kit: Includes aluminum oars, a foot pump, a carry bag, and a repair kit for easy setup, use, and transport
Conclusion
Using an inflatable boat can be a fun and rewarding experience when done correctly. By preparing in advance, following proper handling techniques, and prioritizing safety, you can enjoy time on the water with confidence. Take it slow, stay aware of your surroundings, and you’ll be well on your way to making the most of your inflatable boat adventures.
