Over the weekend I had a chance to take my Saturn XD430 extra-long dinghy out to the lake during our family camping trip. It was 100 plus degrees here in our area and the sun shining right on us was not very pleasant. But we had a great time. Here are my initial impressions:
- Overall I really liked it. The boat was very stable and the ride was very comfortable.
- The boat is rated for 7 people, but that is purely 7 people and very minimal stuff. With me, my wife, two kids (11 and 6), and nephew (7 years) plus a cooler, few snacks, couple of bags, marine battery, and a few extra floatation devices it was pretty comfortable. We could probably fit another person in there comfortably. But I cannot see 7 adults plus gear in the boat.
- I used a Minn Kota endura C2 30 lbs thrust and it pushed the 650 lbs (including the boat) along gently, although not very fast. But I am impressed at the fact that the small motor was able to push us. I am definitely thinking of investing in a higher powered electric motor or even a powered gas motor which is simple and easy to use. Any suggestions are appreciated. 10-15 hp would be nice.
- The air floor is pretty rigid and I can stand up on it but I am thinking of reinforcing it with something to give it a bit more solid feel. There are already three plywood pieces underneath the floor for solid feel. I may add a few more pieces in between.
- Getting it in and out of our minivan, inflating, carrying it to the deck and reversing the process on return was a ?pia?. I have already invested in transom wheels. I am looking into the folding utility trailer from harbor freight. The only thing I am wondering if I will be able to modify it to fit a 14 feet boat. To be honest, inflating and deflating is not that hard. With Coleman 12v pump, it just takes 15-20 minutes. I am actually really interested in finding out if there is an easier way to transport it rather than in the back of my van. Is there a cargo hitch trailer without wheels that will lower and raise so that I can easily roll the folded boat on and off the trailer when I am by myself.
- A bimini top is needed very soon. Any suggestions on something that is big enough for a 14 feet boat?
- In hindsight, I wish I had spent an extra $100 and got the regular 14 footer just because I think it would have had more space.
- Overall, I really like the boat and we are going to enjoy it.