Rating of the best plastic boats in 2022

It may seem to many that plastic is not the best material for building a boat, but after reading our recommendations, you will change your mind. Popular models are made of resin and fiberglass as the core, the surface of the vessels is made of aramid fabric, such as Kevlar and graphite fibers. These materials are superimposed on each other on the mold, followed by an outer layer of colored gel coating that forms the finished product.

Such models are used by fishermen, tourists, athletes, ships are sold with engines, equipped with oars. In our review, we will provide advice: what to look for in order not to make a mistake when choosing; which company to buy a product, we will determine the best manufacturers, we will orient at an average price.

Various types of plastic boats

In addition to composite boats, there are many different options on the market for small boats made of other materials, aluminum, PVC or wood. Depending on the technology of their production, they have different functionality and features, after reading our list you can choose a suitable product yourself:

1. Vessels kept afloat with the help of auxiliary devices. There are 2 types: catamarans with 2 pontoons and trimarans with 3.

Pros:

• high carrying capacity, catamarans have additional storage space due to the increased width.
• folding design;
• can be rowing or motor;
• swims in shallow water, better maneuverability than conventional design;

Minuses:

• if a large force is applied to one side, the pontoon boat may capsize, especially with a heavy load;
• the twin hull makes the boat slower when turning.

2. Sports boats, according to anglers, are the most suitable for catching serious trophies, whoever wants to catch the largest prey should look at such models. There are ships that can accommodate a different number of people, as a rule, their design is reinforced with a rigid hull or an inflatable pontoon, the stern is made for a motor.

Pros:

• small size makes it easy to maneuver, reaching areas of water that are inaccessible to large vessels;
• the design provides enough space for storing equipment;
• good stability helps to stand on the bottom or sit on board when angling fish.

Minuses:

• products are designed specifically for sports fishing, so they cannot be used for general use.

3. Inflatable (PVC) boats are often a great choice for hobby or professional use as they are extremely versatile. They are easy to inflate, transport, store and have a solid construction.

Pros:

• a large number of sizes make them ideal if you want to go on a trip with family or friends.
• stability of the body in various positions of the angler, including standing;
• after you deflate the product, it requires little space for storing it at home.

Minuses:

• must be inflated before launching.

There are many types of motorboats with plastic bottom and sides. Below are the criteria for selecting a product depending on its features that are important to you.

How to choose the right plastic boat

The specifics of creating a watercraft varies from one company to another, but the process is generally the same. Production begins with a plastic semi-finished product (beads) or powder, which is loaded into a closed mold. It then heats up to melt it, rotating to evenly distribute the material. When the form has cooled, it is opened, after which the deck can be pulled out.

In the case of very small, light boats, boats or kayaks (up to 4 meters), the above process makes up almost the entire construction. With larger, more complex models, a significant amount of additional work may be required after the main parts are molded. Structural elements are added if necessary, hull reinforcement with fiberglass may be required, several decks may be connected, voids filled with foam.

When choosing the final product, it is important to pay attention to the build quality, which varies quite a lot from manufacturer to manufacturer. Before buying, you need to decide whether the functionality of the boat you like corresponds to the tasks that you plan to perform.

It is important to mention the design properties of polyethylene boats, which have some features. For example, stickers do not stick to its smooth surface, which can make it difficult to apply registration numbers (use a stencil, black permanent marker - this works well). Mounting accessories, coasters or rod holders, can also be a problem. Screws pierce polyethylene, do not adhere well to it, unlike fiberglass or wood, it is often necessary to add backing plates.

As for products of large sizes, with a complex design, the choice of plastic motorboats will be reduced, since aluminum dishes are more reliable, their choice is wider. However, if you're looking for something between 4 and 6 meters, there's a strong case for buying the plastic option. In the end, when we talk about different types of products, prices, pros and cons of each, the main indicator that influences the choice is safety. When buying a boat, it is important to consider the following points:

• familiarization with river and sea charts of the region where you plan to travel;
• study of the rights of passage when it comes to a complex fairway;
• definition of currents;
• river safety;
• marine knots, their use, improving the skill of their tying.

When it comes to purchasing a boat, the first thing to do is to narrow down the type of boat you are looking for. The driving factor may be the price, then you need to pay attention to budget models.Are you planning to fish on a small river? The ideal option for you will be different from those that involve operation on a large reservoir. If you are fond of sport fishing, then the design of the boat will differ from an amateur vessel. Often, foam is added to reinforce the deck, so if you intend to actively use the product, you should look at more impact-resistant models.

The rigidity of the hull allows the vessel to be fast, durable, except for the cases of sharp direct blows and the inevitable scratches, which are usually minor, do not affect speed. The best products have combined layers (fiberglass, graphite) that give extra strength to the deck. Like wood products, composite products are fairly easy to repair in the field. The main pros and cons of plastic (polyethylene) compared to fiberglass, aluminum:

Advantages:

• Extremely durable, these boats are virtually indestructible in normal use. During a collision with a stone pier or pile, the boat will immediately bounce.
• The production technology makes it possible to have a complex-shaped hull with many bends, the deck has built-in compartments, a large number of seats, consoles. Aluminum motorboats are not molded, so they tend to have simpler designs, and their accessories need to be fixed.
• A cleaning brush and soapy water are all you need to keep your boat looking tidy.
• Plastic products are considered environmentally friendly as they can be recycled.

Flaws:

• The lack of structural rigidity, unlike aluminum, limits the size of the ship. A product over 6 meters requires several supports made of strong materials.
• Molding tolerances are not as accurate as aluminum motorboats.
• Resin boats don't look as pretty, some modern painted aluminum surfaces outperform plastic visually. While polyamide has an attractive finish, other polymers are dull and have limited visual appeal.

Ultimately, the popularity of a particular model depends on its technical characteristics and safety. We hope in our review there is a description of the vessel that you will like. It is possible to make a homemade boat with your own hands using plastic pipes, some craftsmen, using step-by-step instructions, know how to do it.

Where could I buy

An inexpensive novelty can be purchased at a specialized supermarket, managers will explain what kind of ships there are, how much they cost. Along with the traditional places of trade, you can buy the model you like in the online store by ordering online.

Rating of quality plastic boats for 2022

Our list is based on real reviews, it takes into account the opinion of buyers who are familiar with the characteristics of the product. The review contains tables of characteristics, photos of products.

Inexpensive

bottlenose dolphin-360

The Bottlenose Dolphin-360 is a comfortable, roomy vessel that is popular not only with fishermen and hunters, but also with ordinary vacationers. It has the stability to level the hull when the ship is moving at high speed. The design has an enlarged can at the back, which ensures the comfort of using the product together with the engine. Features of "Afalina-360":

• The body is made of fiberglass, which is molded in one piece. The surface turned out to be impact-resistant and reliable.
• The Afalina-360 has a flat bottom, trimaran contours in front, due to this, excellent stability is achieved, ease of movement is ensured with the help of oars, and access to the glider is accelerated.
• The buoyancy blocks located on the bow and stern banks guarantee the unsinkability of the Bottlenose Dolphin-360.
• 2 pairs of toggles, made in the form of polymer elements with a metal sleeve, help the angler to keep balance, changing position, moving if necessary along the boat while rowing.

"Afalina-360" is a cartop, it is easily transported to the reservoir on the trunk of a car of any size.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
Boat length, m	3.6
Boat width, m	1.4
Load capacity, kg	300
Maximum motor power, hp	10
Boat weight, kg.	60
Board height, cm	0.42
Producing country	Saint Petersburg, Russia

• the ability to choose colors (green, blue, white, gray, black);
• buoyancy blocks;
• non-removable can made of wood, giving rigidity to the structure;
• emphasis under the feet;
• 2 pairs of sub-keys;
• 2 steel eyelets;
• paddles included;

• not detected.

Antal Caiman 300

The Cayman 300 is manufactured by Antal and features a slanted nose that provides improved maneuverability while moving across water but generates a lot of splash. This design flaw is compensated by additional bumpers that stretch along the entire side, this allows you to keep your feet dry.

"Cayman 300" is made of fiberglass, has rounded side sponsons, which looks quite attractive. The increase in maneuverability during planing is provided by compact outer sides, which are limited to 2/3 of the length of the stem.The keel of the product is somewhat raised, when moving without touching the water, it prevents the roll. Front sponsons "Cayman 300" guarantee improved stability, the successful passage of the wave.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
Boat length, m	3.1
Number of passengers	3
Maximum motor power, hp	10
Recommended motor power, hp	10

• improved stability;
• affordable price.

• small load capacity.

Armada Cayman 31S

"Armada Cayman 31S" has unique trimaran contours with a characteristic trapezoidal bottom. The vessel behaves confidently on the water, despite a small draft, it has excellent maneuverability, maneuverability in shallow water and creeks. Due to the small radius of circulation, the Caiman is easily deployed almost on the spot.

Rolling on the wave, the hull does not wag to the sides, while following the oblique course with the flow, the nose of the Armada Cayman 31S does not “dig in” with the risk of overturning at full speed. The vessel, thanks to buoyancy blocks with a volume of 85 liters, is practically unsinkable, even completely filled with water.

"Caiman" is suitable as a transport on water bodies, it is perfect for hunting or fishing. Can be used as a lifeboat or sports boat. "Armada Cayman 31S" is easily equipped from a oar version to a design with an engine. "Cayman 31S" planes with a power of 5 hp.

The structure is made of fiberglass and polyester polymer, which reinforce the bottom and deck hull. All process connections are impervious to water, thanks to reliable PVC fenders. It is important to note that the inside of the surface has a non-slip coating.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
Boat length, m	3.1
Number of passengers	3
Maximum motor power, hp	10
Recommended motor power, hp	10

• affordable price;
• thoughtfully designed with durable materials

• not detected.

Medium

Pella Fjord

The advantages of "Pella-Fiord" in its practicality, reliability in intensive use. There is enough space inside to comfortably accommodate two fishermen along with their belongings. The vessel easily maneuvers in shallow water, is characterized by increased impact resistance, and has an excellent reserve of buoyancy, which allows you not to worry about safety when the hull is flooded with water.

"Pella-Fiord" is equipped with bow and stern towing eyes, mooring fastening, 4 sub-keys, banks, has comfortable foot rests, which will be very useful when working with oars. If you need a quick movement on the water, it is possible to install an outboard motor. All structural elements are made of stainless steel, brass, anti-corrosion aluminum alloys.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
Maximum length, m	4.3
Maximum width, m	1.4
Depth amidships, m	0.49
Load capacity, kg	300
Passenger capacity, pers.	4
Boat weight, kg	98
Maximum allowable outboard motor power, kW (hp)	5,88 (8,0)
Contents of delivery	Two oars, a scoop for water, a passport.

• lightweight, manoeuvrable design;
• anti-corrosion elements;
• ladle, oars included.

• not detected.

Armada Volga

"Volga" is a classic product of Russian production. It will come in handy for lovers of walking on the water, hunting, fishing, sports, it is possible to use it as a rescue boat.If desired, the Armada Volga can be easily converted into a rowing version. The design of the cockpit is roomy, it is comfortable to stay inside during long journeys. Engineers have put a lot of effort into creating a well streamlined hull with minimal drag on planing.

"Volga" is one of the most successful Soviet projects of rowing boats, it is still famous, has not lost its advantages. The body of the model is a one-piece construction that does not have connecting seams. Inside the cans are buoyancy blocks made of polystyrene foam, allowing the boat to remain in working order even if a serious hole is received.

"Volga" has comfortable cast chairs, in the middle of the cockpit there is a comfortable bench made of waterproof plywood. It is important to note that inside the bottom is covered with anti-slip materials, which is useful during active movement around the cockpit. A towing eye is attached to the front, which helps to anchor the boat, and there are mooring cleats on the sides.

"Volga" instantly accelerates, if you decide to turn sharply at high speed, the boat will remain controllable due to excellent stability, this fact allows you to use it in sports competitions.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
Maximum load capacity, kg	400
Maximum passenger capacity, pers.	5
Weight, kg	80 ±2
Overall dimensions, m	4,38*1,45*0,7
Freeboard (midships), m	0.44
Draft average, m	0.16
Permissible motor power (max.), l. With.	10
Recommended, l. With.	5

• time-tested quality;
• roomy cockpit;
• acceptable price.

• not detected.

Pelican Intruder 12

If you need space, durability and a fast speedboat, the Pelican Intruder will offer you the best bang for your buck. The vessel is heavy-duty, with a “RamX” hull. The seats can accommodate several people along with equipment, tackle, snacks, and the load capacity is 200 kg.

The Intruder is equipped with seats, four vertical rod holders, perfect for a productive day on the lake.

The rugged housing is made of patented RamX multi-layer material with high impact resistance and UV protection. The motorboat is equipped with engine mounts on the bow and stern. If you are looking for a boat that will provide you with years of successful sailing pleasure, the Pelican Intruder 12 is the boat for you.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
Length	3.65 m
Width	1.21 m
The weight	57 kg
Capacity	2 people / 190 kg
Material	RAM-X
Maximum engine power	6 hp
The size of the product in the package or the size of the sales package is	1300 x 800 x 3650 mm.

• safety, reliability;
• benches;
• case "RamX";
• corrugated, riveted deck does not require maintenance;
• the deck holds 1 cubic meter of cargo;
• 4 vertical rod holders;
• built-in motor supports at the bow and stern;
• carrying handles.

• the color may fade if the boat is not covered.

Expensive

Sun Dolphin Pro

"Sun Dolphin Pro" has a solid body, many excellent features. The product offers an excellent value for money, providing amenities that you usually pay a lot more for.The Sun Dolphin has two swivel chairs for maximum visibility. Six niches for storing gear, three within reach of each chair, allow you to fish without looking up in search of the right bait all over the deck.

The Sun Dolphin features a ventilated catch tray that will keep you fresh until you get home. Two rod holders allow you to rest from them while eating.

The Sun Dolphin Pro's three-shell construction is made from heavy-duty, thermoformed high-density polyethylene. The model has excellent stability, wear resistance, can withstand up to 210 kg, it is light enough to be driven by a small outboard or electric trolling motor.

The Sun Dolphin is designed for the real water lover, you will have everything at hand, storage compartments, drink holders. By choosing this vessel, you will never again miss a catch if you leave your place to find equipment.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
load capacity	199 kg
Length	2840 mm
Width	1400 mm
The weight	68 kg
Board height	590 mm
Number of passengers	2

• heavy-duty, multifunctional housing;
• withstands heavy weight;
• ventilated well with drain;
• front/rear trolling motor plugs;
• navigation lights;
• two padded swivel chairs;
• vertical rod holders;
• high density polyethylene construction;
• convenient transportation;
• meets high safety standards;
• two-year hull and deck warranty;
• three-body design;
• stability;
• carpets;
• polyurethane foam floor with aluminum stringers;
• built-in front motor support, reinforced with wood;
• aluminum fins.

• The ties are on the back, not on the sides.

Pelican Bass Raider 10E

If you're looking for a solid, heavy-duty, light-weight, ultra-stable boat, the Pelican Bass Raider 10E is a great option. It is small but reliable, ideal for fishing in narrow areas of the reservoir. The Pelican's sturdy three-keel hull is made from impact-resistant, multi-layered Ram-X material, exclusive to the Bass Raider.

The structure is equipped with two pontoons for added stability, bow and stern mounts for engines, and all sorts of accessories that will make your day on the water more comfortable.
All in all, the Pelican Bass Raider 10E is strong, durable, and will give you years of fun on the water with comfortable accessories at a super affordable price.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
Length	3.65 m
Width	1.21 m
The weight	57 kg
Capacity	2 people / 190 kg
Material	RAM-X
Maximum engine power	6 hp
The size of the product in the package or the size of the sales package is	1300 x 800 x 3650 mm.

• price quality;
• 2-seater;
• ram-X body;
• two adjustable, removable swivel seats;
• bow and stern engine mounts;
• 12 V electrical socket;
• drink holders;
• carrying handles;
• several compartments for things;
• two vertical rod holders.

• slow move.

Legant-427

"Legant-427" is designed for four people, used by fishermen, rescue services.The product has a strong double body, on which it is possible to mount a console, swivel seats, and other additional accessories.

"Legant-427" is successfully planing thanks to the engine, if you need to go through a difficult section of the reservoir, you can use oars. Modern technologies used in the manufacture of "Legant-427" make it possible to reduce the cost of the product, as a result we have an advanced vessel at an affordable price. Experts say that this model is one of the most budgetary, for an engine of 20-30 hp.

The width of the bow and stern is the same, which significantly increases the capacity of the lockers, which are used for tackle and luggage. The bottom is transformed into a quite tolerable bed, where you can relax and sleep.

The shape and size of the board "Legant-427" make it possible to use it at a wave height of up to 50 cm, easily overcoming it with both small and maximum loads. The vessel has good stability, which allows the active use of spinning, guaranteeing excellent stability on the move or when handling gear near the side. The basic equipment includes equipping with 2 lockers, oars with plugs, side niches, recesses for glasses, an engine mount.

The manufacturer uses modern technology. The body is made of fiberglass of different thicknesses, strong polymers that guarantee a long service life of the product. These factors provide an excellent value for money, as well as the weight of the vessel and its strength. It is important to note that the surface is protected by durable compounds that add impact resistance. "Legant-427" has several isolated buoyancy compartments, they will keep it on the surface even with a serious hole.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
Length, m	4.26
Width, m	1.5
Load capacity, kg	400
Number of passengers	4
Maximum motor power, hp	30
Recommended motor power, hp	20
Transom	+
Board height, m	0.55
Depth amidships, m	0.55
Type of shell	Modern contours close to trimaran ones
Housing material	fiberglass
Country	Russian production
Chassis warranty, years	3

• excellent indicators of stability;
• a large number of additional accessories;
• 4 passenger seats;
• lockers;
• optimal cost for a 30-horsepower engine.

• high price.

Delta 360

"Delta 360" will come in handy for fishermen, tourists and hunters who love to travel along the rivers and reservoirs of Russia. Made from lightweight composite polymers and designed to mount an outboard up to 25 hp, you'll always be able to get to your destination quickly. Plastic does not sink, so your boat will always be afloat.

It is important to note that the Delta 360 has a comfortable cockpit, which is a pleasure to spend time on. If desired, "Delta" is equipped with a windshield, a dashboard with a steering wheel.

In front there is a roomy locker where you can put everything you need, it has a strong lid, it will come in handy in time of rain, things will always be dry.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
Outboard Motor Power	25 HP
Length	3600 mm
Width	1450 mm
Height	600 mm
Passenger capacity	4 people (400 kg)
Weight without motor	90 kg
Transom height	381 mm

• stable construction;
• large locker;
• the ability to install a powerful engine;
• price quality.

• not detected.

We hope our review will help you make the right choice when buying a plastic boat that will last for many years and give you many pleasant experiences.