Dinghy Prime Electric Auto

Dinghy Shopping for the perfect dinghy is much like shopping for a car—or a full-sized yacht! There are plenty of factors to consider when choosing the best dinghy for your yacht. What are you going to use it for? How much space do you have to store it?

There is no single perfect dinghy for all boaters. Each model has unique features that will stand out to different boating enthusiasts. Think about your circumstances and what you want from a dinghy as you shop.

RJ Nautical offers a wide array of dinghies that can serve as loyal tenders to your full-sized yacht. We’ve compiled a thorough guide to help you choose what will suit your yachting needs best. Let’s learn more about what goes into buying a dinghy!

Main Types of Dinghies

You’ll see three main varieties of dinghies as you shop for the perfect one. There are rigid and inflatable dinghies, as well as rigid-inflatable hybrids. Let’s look at these three options in a little more depth.

Rigid

Rigid, or hard-body, dinghies are some of the most recognizable styles. They’re often made of wood, aluminum, or fiberglass and are an excellent option for boaters who aren’t traveling long distances or through rough waters.

While many people are making the switch to inflatable dinghies, rigid models still have their advantages:

• They’re resistant to punctures.
• They are compatible with outboard motors.
• The cost is often cheaper upfront than other models.

However, as with every boat, there are some possible disadvantages as well:

• They are less stable than inflatable dinghies.
• While they can’t get punctured, they can certainly get scratched!
• You’ll need plenty of storage space for them.

Inflatable

These dinghies, like the Achilles inflatable boats offered by RJ Nautical, are some of the most popular styles. Inflatable boats are quickly overtaking rigid models as the most common choice for yachting enthusiasts. For a supreme compromise between functionality and cost, inflatables are often the way to go.

What are the pros of inflatable dinghies? Let’s take a look:

• Storage is a snap once you’ve deflated them!
• They are growing more and more affordable.
• They’re lightweight and easy to move around.

Now let’s look at the possible downsides of owning an inflatable dinghy:

• They may get punctured or torn.
• You’ll have to maintain them more often.
• They’re not as efficient as other models.

Rigid-Inflatable

If you want a hard-body dinghy’s damage resistance with an inflatable model’s stability, try a rigid-inflatable boat (RIB). It’s currently the most popular hybrid model on the market. If you spend a great deal of time cruising on the water, the RIB could be the choice for you.

What are the upsides of owning a rigid-inflatable hybrid dinghy?

• They’re some of the most stable models available.
• They handle easily on the water.
• Other models can’t match their speed.

If the pros are that great, there must be some cons. Let’s look at the possible downsides of a RIB:

• They require lots of storage space, as they don’t deflate completely.
• Rigid-inflatable dinghies can be heavy!
• They have the highest cost upfront.

Storage Considerations

Now that you know a little more about the main types of dinghies on the market, it’s time to think about where and how you’re going to store it. How much space do you have?

There are several ways to store a dinghy on or near your yacht. Which one suits your boating habits most effectively?

• On-deck: If you’ve got plenty of space aboard your yacht, you can tie up your dinghy there. Store it upside-down on the bow, stern, or somewhere along the port or starboard side.
• Swim-step: Does your yacht have an elevated swim step? Tilt your dinghy at an angle, lift it above the water line, and secure it to that step.
• Davit: A davit is a small crane affixed to your boat specially designed to hold cargo and smaller boats like dinghies. This storage option is great for dinghies that are too heavy to maneuver by hand. However, be cautious about storing it this way in inclement weather or on rough waters, as the dinghy can flood!
• Towing: If you only take your yacht out on short journeys in calm weather conditions, why not tow your dinghy a short distance behind your boat?
• Locker storage: If you’ve got an inflatable dinghy that rolls up into a compact size, you can stash it in a locker onboard when you’re not using it.

As you shop for the perfect dinghy for your yacht, think about the storage options you already have on hand. Some boaters have the space to store a RIB model, while others prefer to deflate their inflatable dinghies when not in use to economize their available space.

Intended Use

How do you plan to use your new dinghy? What sorts of distances will you be traveling in it? Depending on your choice of activities, one variety could give you more value than another.

If you don’t plan to row long distances or prefer the ruggedness of a classic model, consider a rigid dinghy. Hard-body models are tough and reliable, and while they’re not the most stable option available, they have an old-fashioned feel about them.

Do you prefer to explore the waters over a further distance? Have you got multiple friends you’d like to bring aboard the dinghy? Inflatable boats allow you to row out further from your yacht, and their increased stability allows for more passengers and more seafaring fun.

Meanwhile, if you’re an adventurous type who prioritizes maneuverability and adventure potential, consider investing in a rigid-inflatable boat. They’re great for steering into tight spaces, so if you are a fisherman with a favorite hidden fishing spot, you won’t have any problems in a rigid-inflatable dinghy.

How can you choose the best dinghy for your yacht? There are several factors to consider, from weight to maneuverability to available storage space. You know your yacht better than anyone, and you know what you use it for. Choose a dinghy model that is compatible with your lifestyle and is easy for you and your sailing companions to use.

Got any follow-up questions? Contact the marine professionals at Prime Electric Auto with your queries, and we’ll provide advice tailored to your yachting needs and wants.