[yellowfin]

I have a small 3 person inflatable dinghy designed for lakes, that I was thinking of using in the sea for short periods, initially only going

[yellowfin]

Not that safe. Especially if it is a soft hull.

Keep it to calm sheltered water near the shore and you would be fine. Unless playing in the surf I would not take it into any wave.

The problem is, if you get into a a decent offshore current you might not be able to paddle fast enough to get back to land. These things often have very inefficient hull designs.

[yellowfin]

Hi Booger
As miliwolf says, not a very good idea – certainly could be problematic or dangerous unless you know the tidal area/current spots very well, as if you are caught by a good current you will struggle to get ashore.
Some dinghies come with a transom plate which can take up to a 2.5hp engine, but even then I would stay close to shore.
Best to hire a rigid boat with engine and VHF in case things go wrong.
Don’t forget the lifejackets – here in Guernsey most boaters would not venture out without them.
I certainly wouldn’t take my fisher/cruiser out without setting an example myself and making sure everyone has theirs on.
A lake is a very different scenario to the sea – be careful.
Cheers
Spongebob

[yellowfin]

Oops!
Just seen the time date on Boogers submission – guess I’m a bit late there guys!
Hope it all worked out for Booger without incident!!

[yellowfin]

Hi SpongeBob

I decided it wouldn’t be wise to use it in the sea at all.

Thanks for the reply

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