Air-Deck Floored Inflatable Boats
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Air-deck inflatable boats offer a noticeably more rigid and stable feel underfoot compared to slatted floor models. This makes them the most popular choice for sailors using their inflatable as a yacht tender. They're also popular for people who use their dinghy regularly and wants better all-round performance.
The air deck is constructed using drop-stitch technology. This allows it to be inflated to high pressure - typically 8–12 psi. At that pressure the floor becomes firm and rigid enough to stand on and move around comfortably, even with a full load aboard. This makes a real difference over longer trips or when you're frequently ferrying crew and kit between the yacht and shore.
Why choose an air-deck inflatable?
Air-deck inflatable tenders offer a more confident ride under outboard power. This is thanks to the combination of the rigid floor and (on some models) an inflatable keel.
They're also more suitable for swinging moorings where the tender may be in the water for longer periods, as the added structural integrity helps the boat handle chop and wash better than a slatted floor equivalent.
Despite their rigidity when inflated, air-deck models pack down to a manageable size - often comparable to a slatted floor boat. They do require a high-pressure pump (hand or foot pump with a pressure gauge) to inflate the floor correctly. Something to factor in if you're upgrading from a slatted model.
Air-deck vs slatted floor — which is right for you?
For occasional use, a slatted floor inflatable is the simpler and lighter option. For regular tender duties, an air floored inflatable dinghies are worth the extra investment. The added stability and performance make a real difference when you're using it day in, day out.
One thing to note on materials: Hypalon inflatable boats are mostly found in the air-deck range. Hypalon offers marginally better UV resistance than PVC, so if your tender will be sitting out in the sun all season, it's worth factoring into your decision.
See our inflatable boat buying guide here: Force 4 Inflatable Boat Buying Guide
Force 4 Video Guide: Can you pick up your Inflatable Dinghy? Try the 02 Lite
