I'm going to have to buy a dinghy sooner or later, I used to see these all the time back East, but pointed at both ends, I understand that the newer ones are set up for outboards. To me a big advantage is that it folds and can be carried next to my lifelines.
Any comments on the Porta-bote?
- Thread starter paul1938
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Porte Boat
I used to own a Porte Boat and they are excellent dinghys. My only problem was setting it up on board and breaking it down. You need at least the same length of space as well as the beam space to easily set up and break down. You are right. The boat stores great lashed to the life line stanchions. They are also great people to work with.
Reef early,
>>ron<<
I used to own a Porte Boat and they are excellent dinghys. My only problem was setting it up on board and breaking it down. You need at least the same length of space as well as the beam space to easily set up and break down. You are right. The boat stores great lashed to the life line stanchions. They are also great people to work with.
Reef early,
>>ron<<
Re: Porte Boat
Most people either love them or hate them. I have one (10') and have been very satisfied with it. As mentioned above, you need the space on deck to be able to set up which is not difficult.
Most people either love them or hate them. I have one (10') and have been very satisfied with it. As mentioned above, you need the space on deck to be able to set up which is not difficult.
I've had one for 15 years. The damn thing is indestructible and unsinkable. It feels a little strange when you first use it because the floor flexes with the water. You get used to it. With a 4HP and one person it flies. With four adults its much slower but very stable. Worth every penny.
All you guys with 35' boats can easily set the Porte boat up. A problem with my 27 footer.
Reef early,
>>ron<<
S/V Good Idea
Reef early,
>>ron<<
S/V Good Idea
I guess it works a little differently for each of us. My Porta-Boat hasn't been folded since the first year I bought it. At home where it lives during the week it sits on a dolly with a tarp over. When I want to go sailing I slide it up onto the pickup and drive it the 600yds or so to the launch ramp, motor out to the mooring to Blue Bayou and leave it on the mooring till I get back later for the return trip. If I'm off cruising for a few days I just tow it.
my portabote was the reason i bought my first inflatable. i have not gone back--portabotes. to me , are too flimsy feeling--floppy and wobbly under the feet -- not comfortable feeling. i now have a walker bay 8', roll-up inflatable and 2 kayaks.
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