Zodiac Futura mk3 and hello!

[slipperyox]

Hi, Thanks for having me,
Long time kayaker, did compotent crew years ago, and now looking at my first inflatable (SIB).
Looking for something stable in the sea, and not prone to dry slipways, relatively light to manuver.
I came across a Zodiac Futura mk3 for sale (Z12216) but have concerns about vin number, as if I'm not mistake means made in 2003? vin 212203...
Anyway, it looks in relatively good condition, and is asking about 1500 pounds with trailer.

Main query is:
Will this be too heavy for 2 people (2T outboard 35hp)

Is it coming to an age of troubles sticking stuff back together?

Many thanks

[User name]

Definitely too heavy for the average person alone, but 2 reasonably active people should be able to manage it ok. If I remember correctly, it's about 75KG without the floor and it is still quite large when folded so it's an awkward lift as well as heavy.

You could be looking at another 50+KG for the outboard but that's a much friendlier shape/size to lift.

It's a fantastic boat but at that age it'll possibly be showing some signs of needing attention unless it's already had an overhaul. I'd aim to pay under 1K unless it's in exceptionally good condition. Look closely at the seems on the floor, transom mountings with the tubes, the speed tubes and keel for leaks, check the transom for rot, particularly in the lower corners, and make sure the internal baffles are ok. If you see any signs of failing glue then it's likely the remaining glued areas aren't far behind.

[slipperyox]

Many thanks,
Am ignorant of what speed tubes are and baffles...
Are these easily researched on youtube etc?

[slipperyox]

Originally Posted by slipperyox

Many thanks,
Am ignorant of what speed tubes are and baffles...
Are these easily researched on youtube etc?

OK Researched!

[User name]

Originally Posted by slipperyox

Many thanks,
Am ignorant of what speed tubes are and baffles...
Are these easily researched on youtube etc?

You've probably found all you need to know by now, but speed tubes are these long thin tubes that fit into pockets under the boat. They're known for leaking at the on either end, and the pockets themselves can also separate from the boat when the glue ages. They're repairable so long as they aren't too bad. Replacements are expensive and I'm not sure if they're even still available.

Think of baffles as like a bodhrán between each chamber (though in this case they're cone shaped) so that they become independent of each other. Without the baffles, a puncture would result in the whole boat deflating, whereas with the baffles you'll only loose that single chamber and should still be able to make it back to shore.

Hopefully it's a good boat and all goes well for you. I've seen a bunch of them on the market here recently as search and rescue organisations retire them. Some have had a hard life, but the odd gem does come up.