The Best Inflatable Boats

Mother Nature certainly provides us with ample amounts of beauty and picturesque settings, but wouldn’t it be even better if we had the opportunity to experience some of those wonders firsthand? For example, if we happen to come upon a stream, or a lake, or a river, imagine how amazing it would be to simply inflate a boat and enjoy the calm right in front of us. Or perhaps we just want to paddle around the pool and soak up a little sun. Being able to do that at a moment’s notice would be ideal. With those daydreaming thoughts in mind, let’s take a look at some of the best inflatable boats on the market.

Intex Explorer Inflatable Boat

Let yourself explore the open water

Be your own explorer with this inflatable boat.
Best Overall

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Although it’s relaxing to watch a gentle stream or stare at an open lake, it’s even better to experience it firsthand. Intex knows this desire full well, and that’s why they’ve designed an inflatable boat that’s perfect for those calm waters. So whether you’re by yourself or with a couple of friends, Intex has you covered. Their inflatable boats come in a variety of sizes that can accommodate either one, two, or three people. Their bold colors only add to the appeal and overall safety thus ensuring you can explore the waters with ease.

Pros:

  • Available in three different sizes that can fit one to three people
  • There’s the option to purchase the boat with both an air pump and oars
  • Two air chambers for added safety
  • Welded oar locks and a grab rope on the bow

Cons:

  • The 1-person boat can only hold up to 120 pounds
  • Not the strongest of seams

Intex Explorer 2-Person Inflatable Kayak

Inflate your life

Float through the day with this easy-to-inflate inflatable kayak.
Easiest To Inflate

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Sometimes the urge just hits us to pack up the car, head out, and paddle through a river, stream, or lake. However, it’s far from ideal and easy to transport a kayak from point A to point B, and that’s assuming you have a kayak in the first place. Enter Intex, with their inflatable kayak that’s a cinch to load up and take on the road. It’s also super easy to inflate and deflate, thanks to the included pump. Included in the package is a set of lightweight oars and an air pump that’ll turn the perfect daydream into a reality.

Pros:

  • Can hold up to 400 pounds
  • Includes an adjustable seat with a backrest
  • Bright yellow color ensures extra safety
  • Removable SKEG

Cons:

  • The seams aren’t the strongest
  • Can take on water somewhat easily

Intex Seahawk Inflatable Boat

Stabilize your day

Fly through the calm waters with this super stable option from Intex.
Best Stability

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The serenity of enjoying the open lake or paddling through a calm river can now be a reality thanks to the Seahawk boat from Intex. With superior stability, this boat keeps you upright and paddling along. A cinch to inflate and deflate, this item easily stores in your car, closet, or wherever you want to keep it ready at a moment’s notice. So when you need a break from the concrete jungle, toss this paddler into your trunk and know that a day of peace and tranquility awaits.

Pros:

  • 520-pound weight capacity
  • Equipped with motor mount fittings
  • 2 quick-fill Boston valves
  • Includes air pump, oars, gear pouch, and repair patch
  • 3 separate air chambers for safety and 2 fishing rod holders

Cons:

  • Over-inflating can cause the seams to tear
  • Doesn’t stay inflated for too long

Intex Mariner Inflatable Boat

Share the adventure

Turn your maritime activities into a group adventure.
Best For Groups

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Enjoying a serene, peaceful day on the water is one thing, but it’s an entirely different and breathtaking experience when you have the opportunity to share it with friends. Intex knows that an outing like this is priceless, and that’s why their Mariner inflatable boat is a must-have for all your water-bound adventures. With the ability to hold up to six people, this boat will ensure that your outdoor excursion is one worth repeating time and time again. If you have a group of friends and family looking to hit the water, the Intex Mariner is a must-have.

Pros:

  • Can hold up to 1100 pounds
  • Equipped with 4 Boston valves on the main chamber
  • The circumference of the hull is lined with a durable rock guard
  • Inflatable keel

Cons:

  • Has a tendency to leak at the floor seams
  • The Boston valves aren’t the most reliable

Intex Challenger Inflatable Kayak

Immerse yourself in nature

Take the challenge out of rafting during camping trips with this inflatable paddler.
Best For Camping

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Getting away for the day and spending it on the water is an amazing experience, but why not make it a priceless one and carry it into the evening or even the next morning. Intex makes that possible with this kayak that can carry you down the river, lake, and stream while making sure any cargo you have in tow stays securely fastened in the front netting. Included with this durable shell is a repair patch that should put some of that traveling anxiety at ease as you paddle your way to the next adventure.

Pros:

  • A built-in cargo net for extra storage
  • Composed of durable, welded material
  • Built-in grab line on both ends of the kayak
  • Inflatable seat with backrest

Cons:

  • May develop small air leaks over time
  • Plastic isn’t the most durable

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a difference between these inflatable boats?

Although describing a boat as inflatable might seem pretty basic and barebones, there are indeed differences among these items. Some are designed to fit one, while others can hold up to six. The weight capacity for each differs as well, so be sure to look out for that prior to purchasing one of these paddlers. Also, some don’t come with an air pump or even paddles, so it’s worth reading the fine print carefully. Most are designed for calm waters, but even so, durability is a key factor when committing to an inflatable boat. Shallow waters equate to a higher chance of rocks scraping the bottom.

How do I choose the right inflatable boat for me?

It depends on what your outdoor adventure entails. If your flying solo – boating solo, I guess, then you’ll probably want to look for a kayak that’ll easily glide through the calm waters, allowing you to effortlessly paddle. If you’re more of a social person, then perhaps a boat that holds 3 or more might be up your alley, but be sure to keep an eye on the weight capacity so the passengers and cargo don’t exceed the limitations.

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With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.