Comprehensive Guide to Dinghy Boat: Types, Costs, and Uses

What is a boat called a dinghy?

Dinghy boats mean small boats (typically under 15 ft) without enclosed space. It can either be rowed with oars or powered by small outboard motors to save your effort rowing.

If you search around, you can see different types of dinghy boats, and the most popular ones include inflatable dinghy boats, rigid boats, and rigid inflatable boats (RIB).

They are generally made of lightweight materials, such as aluminum and fiberglass, for easy handling and transportation. Rubber dinghy boats and plastic types are also available.

*What’s the difference between a tender boat and a dinghy?

In short, a tender boat is a type of dinghy that runs back and forth to a bigger boat, ship, or yacht. A dinghy boat can also be used for other purposes, such as fishing or sailing.

As mentioned above, there are generally three most common types of dinghies and each comes with different features and caters to different boating needs:

#1. Inflatable Dinghy

As the name implies, an inflatable dinghy features large PVC or Polyurethane tubes in the front and sides of the boat, containing air inside to keep its shape.

An inflatable dinghy is undoubtedly the lightest of all. It’s easy to use and store, and it can be rolled up and stored in the basement when not in use. Also, it’s extremely stable and has loads of space.

The best part of an inflatable dinghy is its low cost. That’s why it’s a popular choice for those on a budget and looking for the best bang for the buck.

However, keep in mind that an inflatable dinghy could be really slow and hard to row around (especially in rough conditions). If you want a motorized dinghy to help you go faster and more efficiently, it’s best to choose those with rigid transoms or floors, so that the outboard motors can be securely mounted.

#2. Rigid Boat

A rigid boat, on the other hand, features a hard body. They come in various shapes and materials.

With a rigid dinghy, it will be much easier for you to propel through the water. However, a solid dinghy does not have the stability of an inflatable. Therefore, it’s more suitable for short trips and calm weather. If you plan to travel long distances or go through harsh conditions, consider a rigid hull inflatable (RIB) boat.

If you still want a hard dinghy, be careful about the materials which will greatly affect the price, durability, and weight (therefore the ease of storage and transportation).

#3. Rigid Inflatable Boat

Here comes the most popular dinghy boat solution, the rigid inflatable boat (RIB).

The RIB dinghy combines the best of both worlds: It features a rigid hull that’s less likely to be damaged or punctured and inflatable tubes that give optimal stability in the water.

Although it’s more expensive than the other two dinghy boat options, the RIB has become a preferred choice for experienced boaters due to its versatility, reliability, and high performance.

If you are looking for a fast, efficient, and cost-effective dinghy boat, the rigid hull inflatable boat is highly recommended.

How much does it cost to own a dinghy boat?

The dinghy boat price can vary widely depending on the types, brands, and sizes. In a quick search on the “dinghy boat for sale”, you can see the price tags from $ 500 (for a simple two-person tender) to over $250,000 (for most luxury models with advanced features).

However, mind that owning a dinghy boat involves various costs beyond the purchase price, such as maintenance and operation costs.

Owning a dinghy can provide benefits for all kinds of water activities. It’s necessary to learn the pros and cons to help you decide whether you need a dinghy for your boat:

Pros of Dinghy Boats:

• Enhanced Control: A dinghy boat is easy to control and maneuver due to its lightweight and compact design. It can be powered by oars, sail or an outboard motor.
• Improved Safety: The lightweight of the dinghy boat makes it easier to handle rough seas, and therefore safer for its passengers.
• Versatility in Usage: A dinghy boat can be used for everything from fishing to rowing, snorkeling, or diving from the dinghy. It can be easily launched in any type of water.
• Ease of Storage & Transport: With an inflatable dinghy, you can simply deflate, roll up, and store it in your trunk (or in a lazarette when underway). RIBs or hard dinghies can be easily stored in davits on the stern, or overturned on the deck.

Cons of Dinghy Boats

• Vulnerability to Damage: The inflatable part (for RIBs or inflatable dinghies) can be punctured much more easily than the rigid types.
• Limited Load Capacity: The space on your small dinghy boat is limited. So you will need to consider carefully the essentials to bring onboard (including the passenger load).
• Lack of Rigid Structure: As mentioned, an inflatable dinghy lacks the rigid structure of traditional boats, and therefore, you will find it more difficult to handle at high speeds.

If you’ve ever owned a dinghy boat, you will know the difficulty when rowing in heavy weather. This is especially true for inflatable dinghies which can only be rowed when there is no wind.

And that’s why dinghy boat with motor combinations are getting popular.

However, there are tons of options out there with different features and mixed reviews. As an owner, it’s important to find an appropriate motor for your particular uses. Here are some major factors to consider:

Installing the outboard motor to your dinghy can be easy. Follow the steps below to ensure optimal performance:

• Step 1. Place the outboard on the center line of the transom.
• Step 2. Tighten the transom clamp bolts firmly.
• Step 3. Use two screws to fix the outboard to the boat.
• Step 4. Start the motor and test the throttle and shift controls.