Hi, I am a newbie to boating in general. I have always loved water, but have not done many activities due to lack of time/knowledge. Just recently I thought of buying an inflatable and trying out in the lake. I picked up an intex Excursion 4 for about $70 from Craigslist. Took it out to the water with family and had a fun time. However, the boat seems not to have a solid base and I was thinking of may be upgrading since I know this will be a long term thing.
I am not looking into doing any sort of speed activities. Mostly thinking of going to lakes with family. I like to ride very slow, relaxed pace. Not looking for anything crazy here. Electric motor will be just fine.
Family with two kids mainly in the boat. So safety is # 1 priority.
Not looking to carry on a trailer. I would like to fold it and keep it in the trunk of my car/van.
I was thinking about buying the Intex Mariner 4 because of the hard floor, but I have come to realize if I pay a little bit more I may be able to get something nicer. I'd like to stay well under $1000.
I have researched on this forum and on the internet and have come to understand that Saturn, Zodiac etc. are other brands out there. The price difference between a Mariner 4 vs the other brands are significant ($250 vs $1000).
My questions:
Is it worth it to spend the extra $$ to go with these other brands?
What are my options?
Any suggestions on the best place to buy these things from?
Thanks again.
I am not looking into doing any sort of speed activities. Mostly thinking of going to lakes with family. I like to ride very slow, relaxed pace. Not looking for anything crazy here. Electric motor will be just fine.
Family with two kids mainly in the boat. So safety is # 1 priority.
Not looking to carry on a trailer. I would like to fold it and keep it in the trunk of my car/van.
I was thinking about buying the Intex Mariner 4 because of the hard floor, but I have come to realize if I pay a little bit more I may be able to get something nicer. I'd like to stay well under $1000.
I have researched on this forum and on the internet and have come to understand that Saturn, Zodiac etc. are other brands out there. The price difference between a Mariner 4 vs the other brands are significant ($250 vs $1000).
My questions:
Is it worth it to spend the extra $$ to go with these other brands?
What are my options?
Any suggestions on the best place to buy these things from?
Thanks again.
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