MacGregorSailors.com

Hi

We've finally decided to do the big Whitsundays trip next month and I understand from reading posts on this forum and talking to others that a tender of some sort is rather handy.

Does anyone have any experience with the practicalities of using an inflatable dinghy and blowing it up when required with a 12V compressor. I don't really like the idea of dragging one behind except perhaps for a very short sail/motor to a different spot. I have visions of it swamping and there's enough things to worry about for a sailor of my standard !

Was looking at the cheapie ones for <$1,000 AUD which seem to be about 2.2m (10ft). Probably just use the paddles or may a little electric motor.

Any thoughts tips or advice is appreciated

Thanks

Webb

Hi Webb,
I have a inflatable tender that I push around with a small 3.5hp Mercury 4-stroke. I tow it with a floating towing yoke (so it won't sink and foul the propellor). I have stored it, inflated, on the foredeck but that creates issue with docking and climbing over it by my crew. I have found that towing is no problems whether sailing or motoring. Coming in to dock the wind can push the tender around, as it does with my boat, but generally no real problems although I must admit it adds another dimension in these circumstances. Like all things sailing, there are compromises and accommodation's that you have to make.

By the way, it is my plan to do the Whitsundays next year. Would love to hear how you went.

The choice of a tender is a personal choice. Many in this site have them, and the choices vary.

For twenty years now, I have an Achilles LSI-290E. and am quite happy with it. It has an inflatable keel, which gives greater boat handling, and it has an inflatable floor. It is heavy, 77lbs (34.9kg) when collapsed and folded.

If you do a search for “inflatable dinghy”, it may help in your decision.

I expect you will soon be getting posts stating what that member has. Again, the choice is a personal one. You will have your priorities.

By the way, I like what Sea Shadow posted about a floating yoke.