| Well, a 9.3-foot inflatable is a little small for four people. No, it's
very small for four people. A 9.3 will probably take nothing with more
than 3hp, and it probably won't have a carrying capacity much beyond
500 pounds. That puts a real limit on what kind of water/wake you can
handle -- because the motor can push the boat through contrary water
when the boat is full, diminishing your maneuverability no little bit
-- and how much you can carry in the inflatable with you.
Just my $0.02....
John H-C
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| I bought a used (3 times.. like you) Avon 3.10 roll away last year for
$1800 w/o motor. Then added a 1985 Evinrude, also like new fo $650. The
design of the inflatable with its large wood transome makes for both a
stable craft, and secure mount for the outboard. The floor is made of
plastic slats that interlock when rolled out for good support. On
an extended cruise, we would roll up the inflatable, and store it aft
of the mast, and the motor below....no drag underway. It is not too
difficult to deploy, or for that matter, to store.
I am not familiar with the inflatable you are looking at, but have
generally found that quality is related to price. I think I would want
to try the inflatable a day before I would buy it. If it meets your
needs, go for it.
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| Bombard have a reasonable reputation but as stated in previous replies
you get what you pay for. I am into my 9th season with my Avon and it
is relatively young to my neighbours who are into their 22nd season
with theirs!!! I would perhaps "borrow" the Bombard for a weekend,
inflate it and see if it retains pressure over 48 hours and look at the
design for your needs.
My avon is of a similar size and putters along with 4 adults powered by
a 2.2hp Mercury, every so often I get overtaken my some zealous child
rowing but .....I am not setting out to go anywhere in a hurry!!!
Pete
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