inflatable sailboat tender

Practical Boat Owner

• Digital edition

Best inflatable boat: 9 compact tenders put to the test

• Robert Melotti
• September 9, 2021

Rob Melotti and the PBO test team put some lightweight, portable inflatable dinghies through their paces in Lymington to find the best inflatable boat

Inflatables are everywhere: paddleboards , canoes, kayaks , tents, kites and wings – and inflatable boat technology has long been a practical option for tenders, RIBs, liferafts and lifejackets .

But what the ‘new wave’ of inflatable boats brings to the practical boating landscape is the air floor, which makes very stable, very lightweight tenders a very practical option for people with limited stowage ie owners of cruising boats under 30ft.

And the market has responded with a selection of offerings under 2.4m weighing under 20kg. So which is the best and what should you be looking for to get the most for your money?

We tested nine models sold by eight different brand names. The inflatable boats were superficially quite similar, but in the accumulation of small details it was possible to pick a few favourites.

We rowed and motored all of the inflatable boats solo, and most of them with two aboard. We weighed and measured them and found a lot to like.

What’s the best inflatable boat? 9 options tested

3D Twin V Shape 230 Air Deck Tender was a good all-round performer – and best on test

3D Twin V Shape 230 Air deck tender

French manufacturer 3D Tender was one of the earliest producers of ultralight inflatable tenders. This model sports premium touches, such as davit rings and the most high-spec pump of all the inflatable boats on test.

In terms of convenience it is a rucksack carry bag with a large front pocket for the pump and accessories. The zips will need maintenance though.

The V floor is a single chamber, keeping set-up time to a minimum and keeping the weight down. The lack of safety lines on the side makes carrying as a two-person team a little less convenient than some of the other inflatable boats, but the keel strip will help preserve this boat.

The rowlocks double as cleats and the rubbing strake will provide strength but little in the way of splashproofing for passengers.

Buy it now on oceanfirstmarine.co.uk

Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

Force 4 02Lite was the lightest on test

Force 4 02Lite

This model is very similar to the Seago Go Lite (also tested), including the rucksack, which was our favourite on test for carrying comfort, although you do have to beware of any loose objects inside the bag dropping out of the side enclosure flap.

The Force 4 02Lite was the lightest package overall and packed down to just 90cm long.

The oars were the smallest on test, which affected the rowing performance, but it was the only inflatable boat with open rowlocks – so you can use your own oars.

The bench is adjustable, but I wasn’t able to position it far enough aft to brace my feet against the transom under oars.

There are three D-rings for making a towing bridle on the bow but no ergonomic carry handle.

The rubbing strake is minimal with no splash guard and there are no davit lifting eyes.

Buy it now on force4.co.uk

Crewsaver Air Deck 230 is solidly built and joint cheapest, but is outclassed by 3D Tender’s lightweight V floor design

Crewsaver Air Deck 230

Best cheap inflatable boat

The pack we were sent for testing had the incorrect seat included, but we were able to substitute a seat from one of the other inflatable boats on test without difficulty.

The rucksack doesn’t have a front pocket, but there are no zips to corrode and the adjustable webbing buckles mean the top opening of the bag is quite forgiving for repacking.

The safety lines are robustly attached to the hull, which is a feature that will pay dividends long-term, but adds a bit of weight.

The rubbing strake is also weighty, but the splash guards will keep water out of the boat.

The coned aft sponson caps are hard plastic, enabling vertical storage without damage and the rowlocks double as cleats.

There are davit rings in the bow and through the thick transom board, plus the bow handle is wide for ergonomic carrying.

Buy it now on crewsaver.com

Excel Ventura SL200

From a Midlands-based company that specialises in inflatable boats, this came with a great double-action hand pump and was the only boat on test with an over-pressure valve – a useful feature for exposure to the hot sun.

The safety lines are sturdily attached and splash guards make up part of the rubbing strake protecting the sides and keeping water out of the boat.

The rowlocks double as cleats and the bow handle is wide enough for a proper grip.

Excel Ventura SL200’s double action hand pump made short work of inflation

Davit fittings are supplied and the sponsons are shaped to add waterline length and buoyancy aft. The duffel carry bag was the sturdiest on test.

This inflatable boat comes with a good long set of oars, although we had to sit side-by-side to make any progress under oars with two adults on board.

Buy it now on excel-inflatables.co.uk

Quicksilver was big – but also heavy

Quicksilver Tendy Airfloor 240

This boat has an inflatable keel as well as a removable inflatable floor. There was also a rigid slat athwartship between the floor and keel, which increases the weight overall.

This is one of the priciest and heaviest inflatable boats on the test and one of the largest in packed dimensions.

It features a fuel tank strap, a decent keel strip to prevent damage on slipways, a decent bow carry handle and rowlock cleats.

The rubbing strake is quite meaty as well without being particularly splashproof.

The carry bag is very forgiving – opening flat like a groundsheet.

There were no carry handles on the sponsons and the safety rope fixings aren’t as solid as many of the other inflatable boats on test, although there are rowlock cleats and the seat is fully adjustable.

Buy it now on eBay

Light weight makes for easy handling on land and in the water

Seago Go Lite 230

Seago is a distributor, supplying UK chandleries and there are similarities between this model and the 02Lite from Force 4.

This model is very light and compact – just 0.5kg heavier than Force 4, but packs down to the same 90cm length.

The oars are very short, but are fixed using a pin and thole system which some may prefer over the Force 4’s rowlocks.

The PVC material is described as 1100 Decitex (Force 4 is 800 Decitex) and the backpacks of the two were identical: comfortable to carry and forgiving to repack due to their large side aperture rather than a narrow top.

The rubbing strake is minimal and there is no ergonomic bow handle.

Buy it now on seagoyachting.co.uk

YAM 200T is not rated for two adults

This 2m inflatable boat has a fixed seat and was unique on the test for having wooden slats to reinforce the floor. This means less pumping up, but slightly increased weight.

Like the 3D tender there is no safety rope so carrying between two crew involves spreading your arms wide from bow handle to stern handle placed on the sponsons. It is rated for one adult and one child – the smallest by rating on the test.

There is a hefty rubbing strake with raised levels to block spray and the rowlocks double as cleats. The oars are miniature and the bow has three D-rings for rigging a towing bridle but no ergonomic handle for carrying. With two adults aboard we would have been better rowing side by side – but it was no slouch under engine.

Buy it now on bhg-marine.co.uk

The nicest boat on test to row

YAM 240 (STI) Air Floor Sport Tender

This is the most expensive model on test and features an inflatable keel as well as a floor section, plus two sponsons to inflate.

With that much to inflate a high quality pump would have been better, but there is a pressure gauge included in the package to get everything sufficiently firm.

The seat is fixed but the oars were nice and long, which made it the nicest boat to row. As with the YAM 200T there were no safety lines fitted and carry handles are spread far apart, which makes carrying more difficult.

But there is a good, ergonomic bow carry handle and the inflatable boat is rated to carry 400kg, the highest rating on test. The rowlocks double as cleats and the rounded aft end of the sponsons have protective, hard plastic caps.

Smaller diameter sponsons means more space aboard – but less freeboard

Talamex Superlight SLA230

Talamex is a Dutch brand imported by EP Barrus. This inflatable boat had the narrowest diameter sponsons on test, which creates more internal space, but less freeboard.

It’s an extremely lightweight package, with a thin transom board, but nice long oars and a good carrying handle on the bow.

The pump supplied is a single-action hand pump and the bag folds out completely flat like a groundsheet, which is very forgiving for repacking.

The bag has nice carrying handles on the narrow ends. The seat was massively adjustable and the rubbing strake is generous without offering very much splash guarding.

The safety rope attachments look a bit vulnerable and there are no other handles on the sponsons.

Launching the Seago 320

Verdict: Which was the best inflatable boat on test?

This group of inflatable boats can be subdivided in a few different ways: by length, by price and by weight (note there is also a group of rucksack boats and a trio of air-keel boats).

I think the best on test goes to the 3D Tender, which manages to keep the weight down, comes complete with a very high-spec pump, a very user-friendly rucksack bag with a big front pocket and a ‘slight V form floor’ that inflates as a single chamber.

There are no safety lines or a bow handle, so carrying the boat when inflated is less natural than some of the others and it’s the second most expensive.

The best bargain buy is probably the lightest, smallest package: Force 4, for me, is preferable to the very similar Seago model because of its ‘open’ rowlocks. But if you prefer captive oars, the Seago is slightly cheaper.

The Crewsaver is the same low price and probably more robust and seaworthy than the Force 4 or the Seago while being easier to carry when inflated than the 3D Tender. But without the V floor I think it’s a less versatile performer.

I didn’t see the benefit of the two 200cm dinghies we tested: both were noticeably small in use without being smaller to pack and stow or lighter to carry.

The 240cm V Floor models can carry bigger loads at greater speed, but if you really need that level of performance you have to accept the extra set-up time, weight and stowage.

Best inflatable boats – key facts and figures

What makes the best inflatable boat for you?

Rucksack bags were easiest to carry

The bag details matter when one of the main selling points of a product is its portability. We looked at handles, zips and overall design. Metal zips will corrode without a regular rinse in fresh water, but as long as the zipper track is plastic, then replacement zipper trucks can be fitted relatively cheaply.

Carry handles at the narrow ends are very useful and half of the inflatable boats tested can be carried as rucksacks. A few of the boats pack away in bags that deconstruct on all four sides like groundsheets, with webbing straps and adjustable buckles crossways and lengthways.

These are very forgiving and yet still pack up tightly and securely. We also looked at the quality of the bag material: is the bag likely to survive chafing, stretching, damp or UV exposure for as long as the dinghy itself?

We weighed each of the inflatable boats in their carry bags and found quite a variation in boat weights

Size, weight and price

Our facts table will quickly show you the lightest and smallest packs and there are four tenders priced under £500.

The two longest inflatable boats in the test (YAM 240 and Quicksilver 240) were in the biggest bags (110cm and 120cm respectively), and were the heaviest packs weighing over 20kg even without any accessories.

Only three of the nine tested boats weighed in at under 20kg straight out of the box. There was an 11kg difference between the lightest (Force 4 02Lite) and the heaviest (Quicksilver Tendy Airfloor 240).

The Force 4 comes in a rucksack bag that is 20cm shorter in length than the Quicksilver and over £100 cheaper.

But unless size, weight and price are your only criteria, then a simple numerical comparison could miss some important details.

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Pumps and pressure

Some of the air floors are rated for 1psi; others at 11psi. Most of the sponsons were rated at 3.6psi, which shouldn’t require too much brow mopping for foot- or hand-pump operators.

Five of the inflatable boats came with foot pumps, but the double-action hand pumps with the 3D and the Quicksilver were a joy to use.

All the boats were easily carried by two when inflated

Manual handling

It’s an ironic linguistic quirk that a tender should be so regularly treated without much tenderness. Even a few hours’ use on a clean slipway incurred scuffs, dings, grubby marks and a few minor tears to the carry bags.

Grass is far kinder than concrete for inflating, but is in short supply at busy locations. We looked at keel strips, rubbing strakes, safety line attachment points, bow handles and more… including the relationship between price, weight and fit-out.

First published in the September 2021 issue of Practical Boat Owner.

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• Inflatable Yacht Tender

Is an Inflatable Yacht Tender the Best Choice for Cruising Sailors?

Whilst an inflatable yacht tender is certainly the most popular choice with cruising sailors, there are a number of alternative options that should be given at least a passing consideration before rushing out and buying a new dink. 

And even if you can't be dissuaded from taking the inflatable yacht tender route, there are plenty of things to think about before making your final choice.

Size is probably the first one that comes to mind, closely followed by weight - the two are obviously related - but what about fabric material, rigid hull or soft bottom?

And how about a sailing version, rigged with a mast and mainsail?

For most of us, cost will come into the equation somewhere, but for cruising sailors everywhere, the dinghy - inflatable or otherwise - will be your workhorse; it's got to be tough and durable.

Your Options...

• A 'roll-up' Inflatable Yacht Tender;
• A Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (a RIB);
• A Foldable RIB;
• A Rigid Dinghy;
• A Folding Dinghy;

But whatever your preference is, one of the first things you'll have to think about is what to do with it on passage...

Where to Stow Your Inflatable Yacht Tender

Your stowage options are:

• Stow it below deck;
• Stow it on deck;
• Hang it in davits on the stern;
• Tow it astern.

It's only when you start looking at these options, your choice of the compromise dinghy - for that's what it will be for all but owners of large yachts - will become apparent.

Stow it below:  The best solution, but only really an option for 'roll-up' inflatables or collapsible rigid dinghies unless your yacht is large enough to sport a transom garage.

Stow it on deck:  On most yachts there's room to lash to lash a tender upside-down on the foredeck. On larger yachts a better location is aft of the mast on the coachroof.

Either way, your vision ahead will be restricted and on an offshore passage where a boarding sea is always a possibility, the security of any such arrangement may be tested severely.

Permanently installed chocks and appropriately positioned strong-points to lash down to are a must.

Hang it in davits:  Definitely the least hassle solution, and fine for coastal hops. But for an offshore passage it would be not without some risk.

Tow it astern:  With the outboard motor removed rigid dinghies tow well. RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats) do too, but with a lot more resistance. Again, towing is fine for coastal hops in good conditions, but is clearly an unsuitable approach for an offshore passage.

The light weight of non-rib 'roll-up' inflatables enables them to fly like a kite when towed astern in a strong wind. Huge fun for onlookers, but not quite so entertaining for the crew. It's something that happens to most of us early in our sailing careers - and just the once. 

A Rigid or an Inflatable Yacht Tender?

Whether it's an inflatable 'roll-up' yacht tender, a RIB or a rigid dinghy, one thing's for certain - it will get some abuse.

It will be dragged up stony beaches; left to bounce around with its mates on the dinghy dock; chafe against harbour walls and spend most of its life in the harsh sunlight.

Durability is a key requirement.

A 'Roll-Up' Inflatable Yacht Tender

These come with either slatted plywood (or fibreglass) floors, or separate inflatable floors, and - as their name suggests - can be deflated, rolled up and slipped into a bag complete with the two-piece oars and seat. Other types have two piece plywood floors which have to be removed before you can roll it up.

This one's our inflatable-floor Avon Rover, looking a little tatty these days without it's rubbing strip. I got tired of gluing it back on so now we manage without it.

Note the seat cushion/storage bag. A new acquisition with proves very useful for storing shore shoes, fins and snorkels, dinghy pump...

These are stable craft and have good load carrying ability, but the cheapest versions are so lacking in durability that they're not worth considering.

Inflatable yacht tenders constructed of PVC fabric will suffer from ultra-violet degradation, particularly so in the tropics - even if the tubes are fitted with a protective canvas cover they'll do well to last more than a couple of seasons.

In hot climates the harsh sunlight will destroy all but those made from UV resistant Hypalon polyester reinforced fabric or equivalent. 

Most types have a wooden transom to take an outboard motor, but the simplest versions have an all-round inflatable tube. If you want to fit an outboard to these, you'll need a special bracket.

Compared to rigid dinghies, inflatables don't row very well at all, but those with inflatable keels have much better directional stability than the flat bottomed variety. With a sufficiently powerful outboard these keeled types will plane, which is more fuel-efficient than chugging along in displacement mode. 

The inflatable keel is held in position by a floor which will be either of interlocking ply panels (heavy, and awkward to stow), plywood slats (which will conveniently roll up with the dinghy) or a removable inflatable floor.

My choice for Alacazam is the latter (see pic above); it's the lightest solution and adds rigidity to the dinghy. A 3m version equipped with a 5hp engine can easily be carried up the beach by two adults - an important feature in my book.

All Roll-up inflatable yacht tenders have a notable ability to slop water over the tubes when under way, often in sufficient quantity to dampen anyone's spirits.

A RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) 

Or should that be  RHIB , A  R igid  H ulled   I nflatable  B oat? Either way, along with their higher price, it's the rigid hull that distinguishes these from their purely inflatable cousins. Heavier, but more stable than an inflatable, these can quickly be brought onto the plane by a suitably sized outboard.

A big plus is that the hydro-dynamically efficient hulls of an inflatable RIB throw the water aside, away from the tubes. Now you have a sporting chance of delivering your dear beloved ashore in a similarly pristine condition to that in which she set out.

These are particularly well suited for snorkelling or scuba diving excursions away from the yacht, where their high stability allows a reasonably fit and agile diver to clamber back aboard unassisted. The rest of us though may need a short rope ladder.

The hull material is either GRP or aluminium. My preference would be for one of the aluminium models, which are considerably lighter than their GRP counterparts, and more resistant to damage when dragged over a rocky beach.

For stowing on deck, an inflatable RIB can have its tubes deflated and tucked inside its hull, making it much less cumbersome and offering less resistance to a boarding sea.

It's when beaching a RIB, particularly a largish one with a heavy outboard, that a problem may arise - its weight.

With just a couple of people it will be impossible to haul it up the beach.

However there is a way around it as shown here. Fit a pair of drop-down wheels to the transom and hauling it up the beach is a piece of cake!

A Rigid Dinghy

For robustness, you can't beat a rigid dinghy. Made of wood, GRP or aluminium, they're less expensive than a similarly sized inflatable. Kits are commercially available for those who wish to build their own, usually in either marine ply or cedar strip. 

Positive buoyancy is achieved either by building in airtight flotation chambers in the bow and stern seats, or by using expanded polyurethane foam between the outer hull and an inner skin. 

The latter approach adds strength, but more weight. And if you damage the hull and saturate the foam, a lot more weight.

Rigid dinghies aren't as stable as inflatables so won't appeal as much to snorkelers or scuba divers who have to clamber back in over the side, although stability can be improved by the addition of a flotation collar. 

A well designed one will be a joy to row, and provided you've invested in a good pair of oars and enjoy a bit of exercise, you may decide that you can manage without the expense of an outboard motor.

Some manufacturers offer a sailing option incorporating a mast, centre-board and rudder. Whilst you shouldn't expect Admiral's Cup performance from a small sailing dinghy designed primarily as a work-horse, the simplicity of this arrangement will appeal to many offshore cruisers.

The Folding Dinghy

Here's a neat idea; a rigid aluminium dinghy that folds up.

Very light, robust and spacious, and probably the easiest of all yacht tenders to stow aboard.

Folded flat it can be lashed securely to the stanchions and guard wires, completely out of the way and leaving the side decks and foredeck clear.

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Yachting World

• Digital Edition

Best inflatable boats: 6 affordable options for getting on the water

• Drew Maglio
• March 9, 2023

The best inflatable boats encompass a wide array of vessels with varied abilities that are suited to a myriad of purposes…

As a result, it is necessary to offer the following caveat and disclaimer: the term ‘inflatable boat’ can be confusing as there are some large RIBs (Rigid-hulled Inflatable Boats) with multiple high-powered engines that are designed to perform search and rescue operations in the most demanding coastal conditions imaginable, while other inflatable boats are suitable only for playing in a swimming pool or on a calm lake or river.

This guide highlights some of the best inflatable boats for various common and specific uses. Even the best inflatable kayak will be wholly unsuited to acting as a yacht tender ( see explainer below ), while the best yacht tender will likely not make an ideal inflatable fishing platform.

With so many designs available, it’s crucial to select the right inflatable boat for the job.

At a glance:

		1,949.99		Best inflatable boat for use as a tender		5
				Best premium inflatable boat		4.8
				Best inflatable kayak		4.6
		16		Best inflatable boat for fishing		4.8

Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

6 of the best inflatable boats.

Inflatable Sport Boats Killer Whale

Best inflatable boat for use as a tender

First up on our list is arguably the best value, fully-modular PVC tender that can currently be purchased on the market. Featuring an 1,100 denier thread count and heat-welded seams backed by a 3-year warranty, this inflatable boat is sure to last a long time.

Coming in three different sizes with both modular aluminum and air floor options, there is an option to fit the requirements of most cruisers looking for a fully storable tender – a huge benefit for owners of sub-40ft boats.

While there are many options available, I would advise buyers to go with one of the 9.8’ or 10.8’ models with the solid, modular aluminum floor, as these have the best performance-to-price ratio. These models will also handle the best when blasting along in chop with up to a 15hp outboard.

While the 8.8’ model will be fine for lighter use, the 10.8’ is a lot more boat for not a lot more money or storage space onboard. However, if speed of set-up is your priority, the easiest models to set up and break down are without a doubt the air floor models.

Reasons to buy

– Heat-welded seams – 3-year warranty – Semi-rigid floor – Includes all necessary accessories like bag, pump, oars, bench, etc. – Some air floor models feature EVA faux teak decking

Reasons to avoid

– Fairly expensive for a PVC tender (close to some cheaper glued Hypalon options) – Not as rigid as a true RIB – Can only take up to a 15hp outboard – Modular aluminum floor options can be more difficult to install than air floor models – Wide, light inflatable boats without a keel such as these tend to row very poorly

Specifications 

– Size: 10.8 feet

– Weight: 80 pounds

– Material: h eat-welded re-enforced UV and puncture resistant PVC

– Capacity: 5 person

West Marine RIB 350

– Tremendous value – Quality materials – Very robust and capable

– Big and heavy – Requires serious storage/lifting capabilities – Fiberglass floor will require more maintenance and is also heavier – Still nearly $4,000

– Size:  Length: 11 feet 5 inches

– Weight: 161 pounds

– Material:  Floor:  fiberglass |  Transom construction:  fiberglass and birch marine plywood

– Capacity: 1320 pounds./4 person

Next up on our list is a premium but affordable RIB option for cruisers with either davits or a spot on the foredeck of their yacht, looking for a tender with a lot of capability.

This model features a double-floor, lift points, and an integrated anchor locker. At 161lbs and 11’6”, this model is hefty, but this sturdy construction allows the RIB to sport up to a 25hp outboard.

Coming in at under $4,000, the RIB-350 is priced well below many of the other offerings on the market, and is of sound construction and materials.

While the RIB-350 is a very good and affordable dinghy option for serious cruisers, I would like to see a double aluminum floor option in the future.

Buy it now on West Marine

Inflatable kayaks and other inflatable row boats

While the boats above are undoubtedly some of the best fully inflatable boats on the market, they are ill-suited to applications where rowing is preferred or required. For the sake of exploring rivers, streams, or even lakes by paddle, an inflatable kayak is a much better option.

Unlike their solid cousins, inflatable kayaks are surprisingly stable, while retaining many of the unique properties of a solid kayak — such as exceptional tracking through the water, good speed, inertia, etc.

Inflatable kayaks tend to accomplish these things by having a completely flat bottom, with the exception of a rigid fin that typically slides into place on a stitched track that is integral to the bottom of the kayak. From there, there are many unique and proprietary features that differentiate one inflatable kayak offering from another.

For small boats of 20-28’ without the ability to launch or store a proper tender, an inflatable kayak can often be a way to add versatility without many of the downsides that come with owning and operating what is essentially another vessel (i.e. cost, storage space and additional fuel storage).

Intex Explorer K2 Kayak

– Very directionally stable thanks to the included skeg – Lightweight and easy to carry – Fast – Comfortable to sit in

– Only comes in one color – No storage nets or bin

– Size: Display length: 58.74 centimetres

– Weight: 13.4 kilograms

– Material: vinyl

– Capacity: 350 pounds / 2 person

The Intex Explorer is the company’s no-frills, functional inflatable kayak that is designed for two people.

Although not as stiff and robust as more premium options, the Index Explorer will work wonderfully well for exploring lakes and rivers and may even be used in some very calm coastal areas.

Intex Challenger K2

Best tried and tested inflatable kayak

– Affordable – Has cargo net to hold gear – Nicer color than Explorer

– Not as rigid as the Excursion Pro – Low bow makes it susceptible to splashing

– Size:  Inflated size: 11 feet 6 inches X 2 feet 6 inches X 1 foot 3 inches

– Weight: 36.4 pounds

– Capacity: 2 person

The Intex Challenger K2 is the company’s mid-range inflatable kayak and the one that I have owned and enjoyed for years.

Like the other models, the Challenger K2 features a fully-inflatable construction, detachable skeg that slides into place, and inflatable seats that are actually very comfortable.

Despite the similar cost, the Challenger K2 has one benefit over the Explorer that is noteworthy: the cargo net is actually surprisingly useful as I always find myself stowing gear like life jackets, waterproof cameras, etc. underneath it.

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Intex Excursion Pro K2

Best inflatable boat for rowing

– Higher pressure air tubes to increase rigidity – Integrated foot rests and rod holders – Comes with two different skegs for shallow and deep water

– Only comes in one colour – No dedicated storage solution for gear

– Size: Inflated size: 12 feet 7 inches x 3 feet 1 inch x 1 foot 6 inches

– Weight: 19.77 kilograms

– Material: plastic

The Excursion Pro is Intex’s premium inflatable kayak, although it is still very affordable. This model features a more rugged construction and numerous creature comforts like foot rests and integrated rod holders.

More pronounced coverings also create small storage cubbies at either end of the kayak, although it would be nice to see a dedicated storage bag on future models.

Classic Accessories Colorado Pontoon Boat

Best inflatable boat for fishing

– Rugged steel frame construction – Abrasion-resistant bottom – Elevated seat allows for better visibility and functionality – Pontoon design makes boat more stable – Lots of integrated storage

– Fairly expensive for what is essentially an inflatable fishing raft – Cannot accept an outboard motor – Steel frame could rust over time if used in salt water

– Size: Assembled size: 108 inches L x 56 inches W x 28 inches H

– Weight: 77 pounds

– Material: PVC bottom, tough nylon top, powder-coated steel tube frame, bronze oar locks, cold and heat-resistant bladders and rugged 7-foot two-piece aluminum oars

– Capacity: one person

The final inflatable boat on our list is the Colorado, offered by Classic Accessories, which has been designed primarily as an epic river fishing platform for a single user.

With an abrasion-resistant bottom, this river raft was made for navigating the craggy shallows that trout and other freshwater fish tend to inhabit.

With a rugged steel frame and a wealth of storage, including rod holders, this pontoon boat is the mountain angler’s ultimate tool. This raft can also be fitted with a trolling motor.

What makes an inflatable boat a tender?

In the context of inflatable boats, a tender is a small inflatable boat designed to be an auxiliary vessel to a larger boat or yacht. There are many types of tenders, including those with rigid bottoms as well as wholly inflatable and storable models.

Tenders may be very expensive or very cheap depending on the design. Typically, the most expensive tenders are constructed with painted aluminum bottoms and double floors, where the walking surface is covered with some type of faux teak vinyl or foam decking.

On these more expensive tenders, the tubes are typically constructed of heat-welded (rather than glued) hypalon, which is far more durable to UV than PVC.

Therefore, fully-fledged tenders are typically the preserve of wealthy liveaboard cruisers who spend most of their time in tropical regions where their tender is in use nearly all of the time and is therefore constantly exposed to UV radiation.

For casual part-time and/or temperate cruisers, more affordable but equally suitable, tender options exist. For less demanding applications where stowage ability and modularity takes precedence, fully-inflatable boats with an aluminum floor are often preferred, though a model with a rigid air floor may also be used.

In terms of rigidity while underway, expect boats with an aluminum hull and double floor to be the most rigid, while air-floor models are typically the least rigid and therefore the worst option for handling coastal chop and outboards above 10hp.

RIBs with fiberglass hulls and floors also exist, but these are typically heavier, not as rigid, and also prone to degradation from constant immersion in water (blisters) and UV radiation (chalking).

While fiberglass is a wonderful material for larger vessels, I do not recommend it for RIBs as aluminum tends to be a much more performant and long-lasting choice.

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LIGHTWEIGHT LANDING CRAFT RANGE

LIGHTWEIGHT CATAMARAN YACHT TENDER

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PORTABLE INFLATABLE DINGHY

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• True Kit Navigator - Lightweight Catamaran Yacht Tender

A standard order is prepared and dispatched within 1-3 working days. No matter where you are in the world, our door-to-door shipping service brings your order straight to your doorstep. While shipping timeframes may vary, delivery typically ranges from 1-2 weeks.

All orders from outside New Zealand will incur standard customs duties and fees upon arrival in your country. Our shipment providers (FedEx/DHL) will assist with customs clearance and collection of duties. Please ensure you are available for communications during this shipping time.

For more help or information, contact us.

EXPERIENCE THE NAVIGATOR YACHT TENDER

We strive to keep the weight out of our inflatable boat range to make our dinghies manageable by anyone. Carrying and rowing these boats is a breeze, and for our larger designs we have our exclusive QuickLok Dingy Launching Wheels. 

Whether you are using your True Kit as a tender and need to pull it onboard the mothership, or your True Kit is the water-going extension of your caravan, keeping it light is critical. The secret is in our thermo-welded seams and superior fabrics, which help us to remove all unnecessary weight from the boat.

Have you ever had that tippy feeling climbing in and out of a dinghy? Experience what we call "stand up stability". The nature of inflatable catamarans means all the buoyancy is on the outside. This provides an incredibly stable platform for stepping in and out of the dinghy.

The Discovery inflatable catamaran hull has significantly less drag than a typical deep-v hull. This allows for much smaller, lighter, more affordable and more fuel-efficient outboard engines. You need less horsepower to enjoy a thrilling ride!

All True Kit inflatable boats are designed to be packed down and travelled with. We use the finest German-made fabrics that are flexible and durable to be folded and unfolded again and again. Because our boats are so portable, you can take one anywhere.

Quality and durability were uppermost in our minds when we were choosing the materials for the True Kit range.  After extensive research and testing we chose the world’s leading, premium fabric for inflatable boats - Valmex® by Mehler Germany. 

•Mehler has over 60 years’ experience in the development of textiles

•Mehler uses the most advanced technology to ensure their high quality, German made textiles are longer lasting

•The Valmex® fabric demonstrates superior flexibility, elasticity, airtightness and resistance against mechanical damage and UV

•Valmex® is recyclable

•Manufactured in Germany under the internationally recognised standard of quality: ISO 9001:2008

The transom is the transfer unit between the outboard engine and the boat. We have created an incredibly stiff, lightweight aluminium transom using unique design and quality materials. The triple fold provides strength and direct power transfer from the engine to the boat while also being very light. The whole transom is finished to super yacht level with the AkzoNobel powercoat system.

The seam can be an inflatable boat's Achilles Heel - or the strongest part.  We choose to thermo-weld the seams on our boats  to create the strongest bond possible (a permanent mechanical bond).  A welded seam on a True Kit inflatable actually becomes stronger than the fabric itself. Don't settle for glued seams.

• Railblaza Sideports - Workshop Installation
• QuickLok Dinghy Launching Wheels (Self-Installation)

COMPARE OUR NAVIGATORS

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Performance	80cm x 60cm x 25cm (31" x 24" x 10")	105cm x 60cm x 30cm (41" x 24" x 12")
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	. Boats built with Valmex® 20 years ago can still be seen zipping around demonstrating exceptionally long life expectancy.

"Awesome dinghy.  So light & stable & fits perfectly on the roof of the Rayglass 2800." - Mark Irvine

WHY WE'RE DIFFERENT

Key components in every true kit, premium valmex® fabric.

Dedicated to true quality, we only use German-made UV-resistant Valmex®.

Precision thermo-welded seams

Welded, not glued, creating an unbreakable bond built to outperform and outlast the competition.

Ultra rigid AirDeck

High pressure air deck with thermo-welded seams - providing that important rigidity to your True Kit.

Enjoy a seamless purchase experience with True Kit Direct. With our new base in Ft. Lauderdale, we offer expert advice, lower prices, and a closer connection to the brand. Our direct-to-customer approach ensures personalized service and exclusive benefits, enhancing your buying experience.

We stand behind the quality and durability of our inflatable catamarans because all our boats go through a rigorous testing protocol. That's why we offer an industry-leading 5-year warranty on all our boats. Enjoy long-term peace of mind with every purchase, knowing that your True Kit is built to last and protected by our comprehensive warranty coverage.

At True Kit, we commit to shipping your order in 1-3 business days. You will receive tracking notifications as soon as your order is on its way. We aim to ship all US orders from our new base in Ft. Lauderdale. However, until we have full inventory, some orders may still be shipped from our New Zealand headquarters. Shipping times are 5-10 days from Florida, and 10-14 days from New Zealand.

PERFECT FOR ALL ADVENTURES

RV / CARAVAN

Want to know more.

With your Navigator, you'll get: Boat Floor Aluminium Seat(s) 2-piece Aluminium Oar Set Boat Bags True Kit Bravo Hand Pump Repair Kit

Both boats share exactly the same materials and construction methods. The designs also share a similar catamaran platform which offers superior stability and performance when compared to conventionally designed inflatables. The main difference is in the bow section. The Navigator is primarily designed for yacht tender purposes and has a high volume tube running all the way around the bow. This means you can load the dinghy up with more people and gear and have them close to the bow. The Discovery has parallel tubes which are tapered towards the bow. This creates less volume in the bow area which increases performance and also allows the bow to be pushed close to the water when weight is placed there. This unique design feature is great for swimmers and divers boarding the boat from the water, it is much easier than climbing up over the side tubes.

Our customers are always surprised at how well our boats row. While they haven’t all been specifically designed for rowing (except the Stowaway), the low drag platform and lightweight construction make them a breeze to row. The catamaran design also helps the boats to track well compared to many other flat bottomed boats.

We offer a 5 year limited warranty on new boats.  Warranty terms can be found in the Warranty page on our website True Kit Warranty . Boats built with Valmex® 20 years ago can still be seen zipping around demonstrating exceptionally long life expectancy.

HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?

• Accessories

QUICKLOK DINGHY LAUNCHING WHEELS

Add a set of our QuickLok Dinghy Wheels to make moving your True Kit inflatable simple. Remove in seconds with the simple clip on/clip off installation lock.

TRUE KIT REVIEWS

Greenline boat owner.

We wanted a tender for our hybrid boat that would run well with an electric outboard. True Kit found me on social media and impressed with innovation and responsive sales support. Our new navigator arrived a week after ordering and was easy to set up and inflate the first time. Looking forward to her taking us ashore.

Great tender for us and our bikes

We needed a tender with enough stability and room to get us and our electric bikes to and from shore easily. We just tried our True Kit Navigator 300 and it is perfect for this. It performed well with our Torqeedo Traveler 1003.

So far so good!

Haven’t had a chance to get it in the water yet but blew it up on deck and first impressions are excellent! The simple/quick release air valves are refreshingly easy compared to previous dinghies I’ve owned, and it’s nice that the pump comes with a gauge. So far so good!

Navigator 3.0

Very happy with the quality of both build and design. I’m looking forward to many years of fun and service from this tender. Highly recommend to of the pile product!!

Customer Reviews

Not used it yet but we inflated it and deflated it and stowed it . Perfect. Impressive looking. Mercury 2.5 is our new engine of choice. Way within guidelines. The tender will partner with our Atlas25 Trawler. Rooftop inflated dinghy under way. Needed a light dinghy, this fits our needs:). Texas USA. Randy/Gini

I costs a bit more because it is better in every way. Design, materials, construction. Top shelf.

I bought the 2.5 … best inflatable I have had so far. I wish I could place the seat aft about a foot for motoring and where currently “as built” for rowing. I wish the supplied oars were a little longer. It’s a bit noiser towing due to the water slapping on the “tunnel” under the body of the boat between the tubes. This sounds like a lot of crit. But make no mistake, it is I think the best airfloor small tender on market currently. Including to my eye, actually almost handsome in shape fit and finish - for an inflatable.

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The Best Tenders for Yachts 2024

If you’re looking for reviews of the best tenders for yachts, then you’ve come to the right place!  Unfortunately for us (and fortunately for you!), we’ve had our fair share of tenders for our sailboat, and after many requests, we’ve finally gotten around to comparing them for you! 

Dinghies are essential for cruising sailboats.  They’re your car: your ticket onto land when you live at anchor, your way to adventure in shallower waters, and they can even be used to help maneuver your sailboat in a pinch. 

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You will need a dinghy that can carry your shopping, heavier boat equipment, or suitcases, and yet you will still want it to be light enough to row in the (pretty likely!) event that your outboard fails on you.

The best tenders for yachts have to fulfill a whole range of criteria and will partly be dictated by your own personal needs.  We’ve done a lot of research into this topic after some bad experiences, so here’s everything we found out about the perfect tender for a yacht.

Jump To in the Best Tenders for Yachts

Features of the best tenders for yachts

Rugged and hard-wearing

Light and easy to stow.

• Performance

Different types of yacht tender

How to pick the right tender

Getting the most out of your tender

Essential gear for your tender

Features Of The Best Tenders For Yachts

The best tenders for yachts have certain features in common, regardless of your intended usage.  Considering these factors will help you make the best choice when it comes to choosing a tender for your sailboat.

No matter your intended cruising, you’re going to want a tender that is going to last.  There is nothing worse than spending a fortune on something that only lasts a year, leaving you with another expensive bill and the hassle and inconvenience of sourcing something new.

Choose wisely now, and you should be able to find a dinghy that will stand the test of time and requires little maintenance—always a bonus when you live on a boat!

Consider your choice of materials carefully, thinking about things like UV exposure, and whether you intend on using the tender for harbour runs only, or whether you’ll need a hull you can drag up stony beaches.

No matter how big your sailboat or how strong your crew, saving weight is always a priority.  If you are looking for a tender for a boat with davits then you might be able to opt for something slightly heavier, but if you’re after a dinghy for a smaller sailboat then you’ll want something easy to stow on deck or even down below.

Lighter tenders are easier to pull up the beach as well, so consider how you intend on using your dinghy before you splash out.

The performance of the best tenders for yachts

You might not need your tender to win any races but consider how well it will perform in rougher seas or going long distances.  You want a tender for your yacht that can withstand being caught out in bad weather.

You might also want to think about how well your tender can be rowed, as we all know how unreliable outboards can be!

The comfort factor of your sailboat tender

Although you probably won’t be spending huge amounts of time in your tender, it’s still important to have something practical for your needs. 

If you plan to have small children in your tender, consider how comfortable and safe it will be in choppy seas.  

If you know you’ll be motoring for longer periods of time, do you want your tender to have sun protection?  Do you need a locker to stow essentials?  Do you need space for luggage and shopping?  Will you want proper seats in your tender?

Different Types of Tenders for Your Yacht

These days there is a huge choice of tenders out there, so you’ll have to take a while to consider which kind will best suit your needs.  Everyone has an opinion about the best kind of tender for a cruising sailboat.  Ultimately it comes down to what you intend to use your tender for and what kind of sailboat you have.

We’ve summarised the options for you below to help you make an informed decision!

Rigid Inflatable Boats

Rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) are probably the type of tender for sailboats that you’ll see most commonly when you’re out on the water.  They are not to be confused with soft inflatable boats (detailed below).

The hard hull of a RIB makes it much more hard-wearing and durable.  You can drag them up the beach or hit the bottom without fear of deflating them, and they are much more stable in choppy seas.  They often have some inbuilt storage space and designated seating.

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The downside of RIB tenders is that they are much heavier than soft inflatable boats, making them harder to launch or pull ashore.  They are also considerably more expensive.

As you’d assume, there are tonnes of designs out there, from fancy in-built steering RIBs to those with different shaped hulls for different purposes, and RIBs made from different materials.  What you choose will be determined by purpose and price.

Shop now at West Marine

Soft Inflatable Tenders for sailboats

Soft inflatable boats (SIBs) are fully inflatable and therefore fully deflatable!  This makes them an attractive option for people with smaller sailboats with little room to stow away a tender, or sailors that want to minimise weight. 

SIBs are also a lot cheaper than any other tender option, so they are a great choice for anyone who doesn’t sail regularly or uses their tender for short trips.

Some downsides to having a SIB as your yacht tender is that they are much less durable than other options.  The soft flooring means you need to be more careful about grounding, and they are prone to flipping at high speeds.  They are less comfortable than RIBs as they sit much closer to the water.

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Solid dingies

Fully solid dinghies are far less common, but you do see them.  They come in a range of different materials such as fiberglass, plastic, and wood.

The advantages to having a hard tender are that most are easier to maintain yourself and therefore more durable, they tend to be easier to row, and many can be used with sails (see below).  As they tend to be less popular, you can often find good deals on second-hand solid dinghies.

However, they are less popular for a reason.  They tend to be less stable (depending on hull shape), and there’s a certain amount of skill involved in using them.  They are much harder to stow and are often heavier than alternative options.  You will also need to consider the fact that they can bash up against hulls and make sure they are fendered up accordingly.

Sailing tenders

These seem like a great idea, and we’ve often been tempted ourselves, but they do come with all the downsides listed above.  The great thing about being able to sail your tender is that you could save a lot on fuel, but as we tend to row a lot anyway the trade-off of having more things to maintain has never felt worth it.  They look like a lot of fun though!

Alternative options

Some cruisers rely purely on canoes or paddleboards to reach the shore, and while this certainly is cheaper, it isn’t always practical. 

We love having the option of using our kayak to reach shore on a calm day, but we would never trust it in big seas or high winds.  We could end up stuck on shore away from our sailboat, or even worse, get into trouble trying to get back.

Unless you are really experienced and know you can be safe out on the water in big seas and winds, then stick to something you can power up more effectively!

How to Pick the Right Tender for Your Yacht

Here are some questions to consider before choosing the best tender for your yacht.  These factors are personal and will differ from person to person, so you might want to spend some time considering your own needs before splashing out on a potentially expensive bit of kit for your boat!

What will you use your tender for?

The use of your tender will have a knock-on effect on the decisions you make about the right one for you.  Make sure you consider things like:

• Where you plan on sailing (this will affect material choice)
• How many passengers you’ll need to carry
• The distances you’ll be travelling
• How often you’ll use a tender (frequency of sails, time spent at anchor)
• The types of trips you’ll make.  For example, heading off on a day-long diving trip will require a lot more ‘luggage’, and you might want to consider sun protection
• How you will stow your tender while underway
• Where you will dock your tender

What’s your budget?

Another big consideration when choosing the right tender for you is the cost.  You can buy super expensive tenders that come with all the bells and whistles, or you can find cheaper tenders that will serve a purpose for now.  Your budget will help determine what kind of tender to opt for.

The size of your yacht

If you don’t have room for a larger dinghy, then it doesn’t matter how many guests you want to take to shore.  You’re going to be constrained to a certain size and weight.  Inflatable tenders might be the best option for people looking to maximise storage space on their yacht.

Getting The Most From Your Sailboat Tender

We’ve put together some top tips for helping you to get the most from your new tender.

Tender painters for the best tenders for yachts

Here’s a top tip so you don’t end up in the same situation as us!  Equip your new tender with two painters.  One painter for your tender is not enough!

When towing your dinghy, or even just securing it to your boat in a windy anchorage, two painters will ensure you don’t lose your dinghy if a line snaps or a knot works loose.

All things davits

We’ve heard so many stories of davit failures leading to lost dinghies in rough weather.  Make sure you have diagonal straps on your tender to stop it swinging side to side, and make sure those straps are strong!

You should also always leave the plug open on your tender when it’s up on davits.  That way, if waves splash into the tender, it will still drain and won’t put extra strain on the davits.

Oh outboards

Unfortunately, you’re also going to need a reliable way to power your dinghy, especially if you plan on using it for anything other than short trips to shore.  Outboards are notoriously unreliable, and our experience with them has been the same as most others we talk to—a complete pain in the bottom!

Sadly though, you’re almost certainly going to need one.  We’ll cover outboards in a separate article, but here is a brief summary of your options:

Consider how much power you really need.  Outboards with greater horsepower will give you the ability to go faster and farther but are also more expensive and heavier.  Water-cooled engines tend to be quieter than the air-cooled kind.

You can choose from four-stroke and two-stroke engines.  Four-stroke engines are kinder to the environment, and you can’t buy two-stroke engines anymore here in Europe, so if you’re after a two-stroke you will have to find one second-hand.

The other option is to go electric.  We are desperate for an electric outboard , so if we decide to splash out then we’ll let you know how we get on!  If anyone reading this has experience with an electric outboard we would love to hear your opinions—and recommendations!—below. 

The downside to electric outboards is the price.  There is also some debate about whether they are capable of going long distances yet, with some suggesting that the technology isn’t quite there yet.

Shop fuel driven outboards here

Shop electric outboards here

Dinghy chaps for the best tenders for yachts

Dinghy chaps are the fabric covers you see on the PVC tubes of a tender.  If you plan to use your yacht tender in tropical climates, then you’re going to want to protect it from the UV rays that will quickly cause PVC to degrade.

Dinghy chaps will also help to protect your tender from scrapes and cuts above the rub rail, as can so often happen when you’re climbing out against a rough town quay or harbour wall. You can make your own dinghy chaps if you’re handy with a sewing machine, or you can get them custom made.  Just make sure you use a durable fabric like Sunbrella to give them maximum protection!

Essential Gear for the Best Tenders for Yachts

Oars: In our opinion, oars are an essential bit of kit for your dinghy.  We use our oars all the time for shorter trips to shore, or for squeezing into fishing bays where a mess of mooring lines present a risk of being caught in the outboard.  

We’ve also had to row on several occasions when the outboard has (predictably) stopped working.

Life jackets:  Just as when you’re out on the water sailing, life jackets are an important piece of gear for your yacht tender too.  It’s all too common for accidents to happen out on the water, and a life jacket is a vital bit of life-saving kit that you shouldn’t be without.

Anchor:   We’ve had several different types of anchor for our dinghy over the years and found we liked the oversized Delta style best, but that was for anchoring in sand where we could really dig it in.  

Crab claw anchors that fold away tend to be the most popular choice of dinghy anchors, as you can stow them away easily.  We haven’t had much luck with ours as we find it hard to set and a little unreliable!

Navigation lights: Every country has slightly different regulations when it comes to navigation lights for a tender.  Our advice would be to make sure you always check the country you’re using your tender in, and have at least an all-round white light everywhere you go as a matter of safety.  

We heard a horrible story about someone navigating just a short distance without one, so we make sure we always have an all-round white light visible even when we’re only required to use torchlight.

Water pump/bailer: This isn’t necessary but it’s so useful !  Seaspray or rainwater can quickly leave a nice puddle of water in the dinghy, so having something on hand to keep it dry is always a bonus!

Other useful tender gear: If you have a locker in your dinghy, you might also want to consider carrying a dry bag or two, a torch, a multitool, a spare kill cord key for the outboard, and a handheld VHF .

Hopefully that’s given you some ideas about the best tenders for yachts.  If you’re still feeling ‘at sea’ when it comes to buying a yacht tender then feel free to reach out to us with your questions in the comments section below.  

If you found this article useful then join our mailing list and follow us on social media for more sailing and cruising tips and inspiration!  Thanks for reading!

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The Best Inflatable Tender Boats for Your Vessel

It takes a lot of research to figure out the best inflatable tender boats that will get you from point A to B in a safe and quick manner.

Tender boats have been useful for water transport, especially when coming to and from shore. They often serve dual purposes for bigger yachts and ships. You can use them as a transport yacht tender or inflatable safety boats for search and rescue missions or other emergencies.

The new catamaran models are worth checking out. The current designs are stable and make for some of the best tender boats due to their versatility. Here are the best tender boats you can use for your next adventure.

6 Best Inflatable Tender Boats Reviewed

• Takacat 300 LX Portable Tender
• Zodiac Cadet Tender Boat
• Newport Vessels 8 Ft. Dana
• Bris Fish Hunter
• Sports Boats Killer Whale Model 330 
• Seamax Ocean 380

1. Takacat 300 LX Portable Tender

Takacat is innovation, safety, versatility, durability, and convenience crafted into one revolutionary inflatable boat. It has an open bow seating and open transom design to optimize the boat’s comfort, convenience, and high-quality power.

Takacat 300LX, like their other models, maintains stability from stopped to top speed due to its premium Catamaran hull design, making it a top contender as the best tender boat.

The small size of the Takacat LX series makes it ideal and perfect for an excursion in secret water coves or shore and seaside destinations. One of the best and most admirable things about this portable tender is its easy roll-up design that allows quick setup and storage.

Despite its lightweight design, you and your buddies can board with your gear, as this sailing tender has a large load-carrying capacity. Rain and dripping divers have nothing on this boat as it has a raised deck space to allow the water to flow continuously. This helps the boat and the people stay dry.

The Takacat cruisers are confident that this is one of the, if not The best inflatable tender boats that provide resistance to damage by abrasion, UV radiation, puncture, and other factors due to its durable and high premium quality materials.

2. Zodiac Cadet Tender Boat

Zodiac Cadet boasts a compact design that allows easy storage and carrying options. It features a tube with progressive-diameter buoyancy for the improved stability of the inflatable boat. 

The float is welded and glued overlappingly for closure to guarantee cruisers’ safety and prolong the boat’s lifespan. You have the option to choose your preferred floor for your convenience. 

Aero models feature H2P inflatable floors, which makes them comfortable and lighter. All series feature an inflatable keel for rapid planing and improved maneuvering of the tender boat. It is easily transported as stowage is simple and lightweight, fitted into a carrying bag.

3. Newport Vessels 8 Ft. Dana

The Newport sailing dinghy has denier specialty coated PVC and marine wood deck flooring. Suitable as an inflatable tender. It uses quality materials and an extra layer of polyester for storage flexibility.

Newport Vessels Dana can also be used as an inflatable fishing boat or a small runabout dinghy boat, as they offer stability and maneuverability at high speeds. If speed and performance are the features you want, Dana’s motor setup can reach 15-20 mph speeds.

They are lightweight enough to be dragged up on shore, run into docks, and durable enough to keep up with boating wear and tear. 

4. Bris Fish Hunter

Another lightweight tender boat you can have is the Bris Fish Hunter. It ensures durability with its double-layered PVC fabric tubes and aluminum floorboard. Water activities can be fun with this tender boat as it is lightweight, easy to use, and super stable.

Fishing with 4-5 people can be done with Bris Fish Hunter, with its weight and seating capacity of 1675 lbs. It features heat-welded seams that guarantee durability in freshwater, saltwater, and extreme humidity. It has a heavy-duty sectional aluminum floor and a corrosion-proof swim platform perfect for boaters who love doing water sports activities. 

5. Sports Boats Killer Whale Model 330 

This model has a contoured sleek white design engineered for buoyancy and faster planning at takeoff. Sailors on this inflatable dinghy consider it to resemble a whale with the way it works on the water.

It makes boating a killer with its reinforced PVC material is resistant to UV, oil, and punctures. This inflatable boat has extended rear pontoons and transom area for more weight and a bigger motor while maintaining stability.

Convenience is a feature of this model as it is lighter and easier to clean with its easy-slide solid aluminum floor and seats. You can board this boat with two people or five as it has a weight capacity of 1268 lbs. 

6. Seamax Ocean 380

Another inflatable boat used as a tender boat for yachts and bigger ships is the Seamax Ocean 380. It features a marine-grade PVC-coated fabric for its construction. The boat has heavy-duty lifelines around the entire dinghy, backed by a secondary on one inside.

The heavy-duty design has a reinforced keel, transom, and pontoon bottom. It also features a non-skid floor system with side joiners, a fuel tank, and a battery box. This product ensures stability, convenience, and quality yacht tender, perfect for fishing, hunting, and commercial use. 

How to Set Up Inflatable Tenders

Setting up your inflatable tender is relatively easy. Especially with Takacat, it shouldn’t take longer than 15-20 minutes of your time to have this yacht tender up and running for your water adventure. 

Here is a step-by-step guide on setting up your inflatable tender for a convenient trip to and fro shore or exploring enclosed water spaces.

• Unroll the tubes from side to side
• Unfold the tubes from end to end
• At the back of the craft, locate inflation valves
• Inflate tubes to 3 PSI or 22.5 KPA (electric pump)
• Insert the tube transom while using water to lubricate the tube
• Attach black velcro straps around the tube transom 
• Then, insert the top tube transom while still using water for lubrication
• Slot a small motor mount board on the inside of the tube transom
• Attach the backboard using bolt/ washers or eye nut
• For the air deck floor, unfold it and position 
• Slot D rings on-air deck floor through fabric floor layer (for LX series)
• Connect the floor D rings using a webbing strap
• Bow-located inflation valve, inflate air deck floor to 10 PSI or 65 KPA (electric pump)
• Double-check if it is in the correct floor position
• Then, inflate the float seat to 3 PSI or 22.5 KPA (electric pump)
• Put the quick-release wheels in the up-and-down position to check 
• Fix the oars into position
• Enjoy a ride with your inflatable tender boat.

How to Clean Inflatable Tenders

Inflatables should withstand the harshness of the water. But like any other fishing essentials, they need to be well-taken care of to extend their lifespan. Always rinse and clean your tender free of dirt, sand, salt, sunscreen, and whatnot at the end of each use.

Use fresh water to rinse off the boat’s outside and inside. If there are any scrapes, it’s best to use a proper non-abrasive boat cleaning solution immediately.

To avoid mildew and mold formation from your tender boat, dry it properly after rinsing. To do this, let the water drain out from your boat by turning it over, then use a towel to wipe it dry.

Use another dry towel to soak the water between the floor and side tubes. You may use the sun’s heat to dry your boat, but don’t let it out in the sun too long. 

Insider Advice

It’s good to come prepared for emergencies when out to the water with your best yacht tenders. But nothing beats preventing them and learning how to be safe. The California-approved boating safety courses will help you stay safe on your yacht tender while having the good fun it brings.

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Whether you're seeking a roll-up dinghy for going ship-to-shore, a luxury tender for your yacht, a sporty center console for fishing trips and watersports,  or a high-performance RIB to navigate the waterways - you can be assured that you are getting the best inflatable boat at the most competitive prices. Our showroom features a wide selection of  top brands with hard to get models like the highly sought after AB Jet , and the new generation of Zodiac flagship boats like the 29 foot Medline 9 .

All of our new boats are available for direct purchase on our secure website with competitive delivery options. We offer fast and convenient shipping to anywhere in the lower 48 states. For boaters outside of the lower 48 states or for pre-owned purchases, please call our Sales team at (805) 644-6290 for a custom freight quote.

AB Oceanus 28 VST Bowrider RIB | Twin Yamaha Outboards | 28VST

or $1,433/month

Estimated monthly payment based on 240-month loan at 9% APR and 20% down. Additional options and salestax not included. Actual rates and terms are based on indv credit.

Zodiac Medline 9 | Twin Yamaha Outboards

or $1,421/month

Highfield Patrol 860 | Twin 250hp Outboards | PA860

or $1,197/month

AB Oceanus 28 VST Bowrider RIB | Yamaha Outboard | 28VST

or $1,268/month

Pre-Owned Zodiac Medline 9 | Twin Yamaha 300hp 2022 | 6B68

Highfield Sport 800 | Twin 150hp Outboard | SP800

or $1,018/month

Highfield Sport 800 | 300hp Outboard | SP800

or $993/month

Estimated monthly payment based on 240-month loan at 9% APR and 15% down. Additional options and salestax not included. Actual rates and terms are based on indv credit.

Zodiac Medline 7.5 GT | Mercury 300hp Outboard

or $1,054/month

Zodiac Medline 7.5 | Yamaha Outboard

or $871/month

Highfield Sport 760 | 300hp Outboard | SP760

or $924/month

Highfield Sport 760 | 250hp Outboard | SP760

or $899/month

AB Oceanus 24 VST Bowrider RIB | Yamaha Outboard | 24VST BR

or $819/month

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Newport Carmel Drop Stitch Air Mat Floor Inflatable Tender Dinghy Boat (7-Feet 7-Inch)

Delivery & support.

Size	7-Feet 7-Inch
Color	Carmel (7ft 7in)
Brand	Newport
Material	Ploypropylene
Product Dimensions	84"L x 32"W
Item Weight	70 Pounds
Age Range (Description)	Adult
Global Trade Identification Number	00717390770382
UPC	717390770382
Manufacturer	Torero Imports LLC

About this item

• 30-DAY GUARANTEE: All of our boats come with our "Float Your boat Guarantee" and 2 year Manufacturer Warranty. California based customer service team for reliable after sale support
• Comes with: Drop stitch high pressure air mat floor, 1 bench seat, 2 aluminum oars, carrying & storage bag, foot pump, one way drain plug, towing D-rings, 2 mounted carrying handles, oar locks and oar holders
• COMES WITH: PVC hull, drop stitch high pressure air mat floor, 1 aluminum bench seat, patch & repair kit, 2x aluminum oars, additional topside D-rings for Bimini and accessories, carrying bag & storage bag, and foot pump
• BOAT MATERIALS: Triple layered 0.9mm/1, 100 denier polyester reinforced and anti corrosive coated PVC. Material ensures protection against corrosion, sun, salt, and all destructive elements
• FLOOR MATERIALS: Triple layered PVC drop stitch high pressure air mat floor (8.0 psi)

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Product information

Size	7-Feet 7-Inch
Color	Carmel (7ft 7in)
Brand	Newport
Material	Ploypropylene
Product Dimensions	84"L x 32"W
Item Weight	70 Pounds
Age Range (Description)	Adult
Global Trade Identification Number	00717390770382
UPC	717390770382
Manufacturer	Torero Imports LLC
Weight Limit	850 Pounds
Item Weight	70 pounds
Department	unisex-adult
ASIN	B07CQPRNKK
Item model number	21M1000024
Customer Reviews	3.7 out of 5 stars
Best Sellers Rank	#705,067 in Sports & Outdoors ( ) #200 in

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Product Description

The Carmel is the newest addition to Newport inflatable boat lineup! this two person inflatable dinghy boat is small, light, and quick to setup. Featuring a high pressure air floor, 14.5 inch diameter buoyancy tubes, a swimming bench, oars, inflatable keel, and a transom ready for a 4HP kicker or electric trolling motor, this inflatable tender will keep you safe and dry. Whether you are looking for a small inflatable tender for your live-aboard, or want a safe and stable fishing boat that fits in the trunk of your car, the Carmel will never leave you disappointed! just because something is small, doesn't mean it should be made cheaply! we selected the highest grade PVC fabric, using the latest in heat welded seam construction techniques to assemble the most durable hull on the market. Our accessories are attached with German made adhesives to fully outfit the newest addition to our premium line of inflatable boats.

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Price	—	—	—	$999.00$999.00	—	—
Size	7ft 7in	9ft	10ft	8ft 10in	9ft 6in	11ft 9in
Passenger Capacity	2	3	4	3	4	6
Max Load Capacity	850 lbs	1,067 lbs	1,124 lbs	1,067 lbs	1,124 lbs	1,512 lbs
Max Motor Power	4 HP	10 HP	15 HP	10 HP	10 HP	20 HP
Weight	70 lbs	93 lbs	99 lbs	107 lbs	116 lbs	160 lbs

What's in the box

• Carmel Inflatable Boat
• 2-Piece Set of Oars
• Aluminum Bench Seat
• Drop Stitch Air Floor

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Newport Vessels Carmel Drop Stitch Air Mat Floor Inflatable Tender Dinghy Boat (7-Feet 7-Inch)

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• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 5 star 42% 28% 8% 5% 18% 42%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 4 star 42% 28% 8% 5% 18% 28%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 3 star 42% 28% 8% 5% 18% 8%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 2 star 42% 28% 8% 5% 18% 5%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 1 star 42% 28% 8% 5% 18% 18%

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers appreciate the build quality, functionality, and ease of setup of the water flotation device. They mention it's well-constructed, serves their purpose perfectly, and is easy to row. Some also say it handles well with or without a motor.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the build quality of the water flotation device. They mention it's sturdy, well-constructed, and durable. Some also appreciate the thick, rugged ribbed skid-guards.

"...past few years have gone drastically up, but the quality of the Newport has remained consistent or maybe improved...." Read more

"...that is REALLY appreciated (and unusual in my experience) are the very thick and rugged ribbed skid-guards on the bottoms of the tubes near the..." Read more

"...I spent over $1000 I am pretty disappointed!!!!! The package delivered was absolutely damaged . There is a leak in the drop stitch air flow bed...." Read more

"...If you want a durable light weight inflatable with a V-hull (via an inflated "rib" under the inflatable floor that pushes the hull into a V-shape),..." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the functionality of the product. They mention it serves their purpose perfectly, is easy to setup, and is a nice boat.

"...Fortunately I had a better pump handy.Overall, a very nice boat , and an excellent boat for the money...." Read more

"...The Seascape II Air Mat Floor Inflatable has worked very well during four months of use, carrying us from the shore to our moored power boat,..." Read more

"...That is the only downside. It was easy to setup and serves our purpose perfectly .Update: The dinghy has performed great...." Read more

"It's heavy, very HEAVY. However, it is a good product ." Read more

Customers find the water flotation device easy to setup. They mention it's sturdy and sure, which speeds up the set-up process.

"...the hard floor but it seems to be pretty sturdy and sure speeds-up the set-up process . Overall, I am very pleased with this purchase." Read more

"...That is the only downside. It was easy to setup and serves our purpose perfectly.Update: The dinghy has performed great...." Read more

"exactly as advertised, rows more easily than I predicted ...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the motor of the water flotation device. They mention it moves right along with their electric motor and handles well with or without a motor.

"...that handles well with or without a motor , this Newport Vessels product is a great choice." Read more

"... Moves right along with my electric motor (55), High sides make it user friendly for my wife and kids. Looks strong and durable enough. I am happy!!!" Read more

"appears well made with good materials, motored with 9.9h outboard moves along nicely . large tubes are better at keeping you dry." Read more

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Take Adventure on the Water to a Whole New Level

The advanced Falcon Tender Series from BRIG USA emphasizes the “recreation” aspect of recreational boating — and our spry, nimble 9’6″ inflatable boat is a perfect example. We’ve redesigned the Falcon 300 to include a host of innovative features that will make spending a day or weekend on the water more enjoyable than ever.

Designed to transport up to four passengers in comfort, this small tender boat is perfect for adventure seekers or family excursions. Whether you’re looking to explore, entertain or just unwind after a stressful week at the office, the Falcon 300 allows you to get away from it all — and have a fantastic time you’ll want to repeat again and again.

Weighing only 144 pounds when fully equipped and with a maximum payload of just 1007 pounds, this 9’6″ inflatable boat is the lightest in our Falcon Tender lineup — and the most agile. You’ll experience the thrill of skimming atop the water as you deftly maneuver around the plodding vessels in your path. At a width of just over five feet, you’ll also be able to squeeze through narrow openings or navigate through crowded waters with ease.

You’ll also appreciate the Falcon 300’s eye-catching style. The exterior scheme features contrasting colors that make the vessel stand out. The beautiful Mirasol fabric on the seats will draw rave reviews from your passengers. While the Falcon 300 may not be the biggest boat on the water, it will surely attract the most attention.

MAIN SPECIFICATIONS

9′ 6″

5′ 5″

Designed for Today’s Boating Enthusiasts

Expertly designed and crafted in Europe, our 9ft RIB tender includes advanced engineering, high-quality materials and an assortment of features that maximize the user and ownership experience. Examples include the tube stern end steps and bow step plate with integrated chrome-finish navigation lights. The deluxe folding bench seat and console side seat provide ample room for up to four passengers.

We’ve fitted all Falcon 300 tenders with davit lifting eyes which you can locate relevant to your yachts davit lifting points. Raising and lowering the fully inflated boat is a breeze. You’ll also receive a foot pump that speeds up and simplifies the inflating process — you’ll have your small tender boat ready for your next adventure in no time.

Full custom options are available to integrate with your yacht. The advanced steering system and console improve the tender’s navigation experience and make it even more operator-friendly. We can also install Hypalon ORCA Fabric on the seats that resists the sun’s harmful UV rays, protects against abrasions and extreme heat and enhances the vessel’s visual appeal. You can even choose seats with stowage to increase your storage capacity.

Contact Us to Learn More About the Falcon 300

Our extraordinary 9ft RIB boat for sale will change the way you feel about spending time on the water — for the better. You and your passengers will have a memorable adventure that “landlubbers” can only imagine. Contact BRIG USA to learn more about the Falcon 300 today!

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3-Day Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk Itinerary

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• Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in 3 days
• 1-Day Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk Itinerary
• 2-Day Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk Itinerary

Table of contents

Day 1: most popular attractions, day 2: off the beaten path, day 3: east side of town, gorodskoy park kul'tury i otdykha im. yu. gagarina.

Sakhalinskiy Zoobotanicheskiy Park

What's the weather like in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in January
• Weather in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in February
• Weather in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in March
• Weather in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in April
• Weather in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in May
• Weather in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in June
• Weather in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in July
• Weather in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in August
• Weather in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in September
• Weather in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in October
• Weather in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in November
• Weather in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in December

Explore nearby places

• Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk
• Prigorodnoye
• Sarufutsu-mura
• Hamatonbetsu-cho
• Toyotomi-cho
• Horonobe-cho
• Rishirifuji-cho
• Nakatonbetsu-cho
• Rishiri-cho
• Otoineppu-mura
• Nakagawa-cho
• Enbetsu-cho
• Shosanbetsu-mura
• Sovetskaya Gavan

All related maps of Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk

• Map of Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk
• Map of Sinegorsk
• Map of Korsakov
• Map of Prigorodnoye
• Map of Chaplanovo
• Map of Kholmsk
• Map of Sadovniki
• Map of Nevelsk
• Map of Novikovo
• Map of Makarov
• Map of Wakkanai
• Map of Sarufutsu-mura
• Map of Hamatonbetsu-cho
• Map of Toyotomi-cho
• Map of Rebun-cho
• Map of Horonobe-cho
• Map of Rishirifuji-cho
• Map of Esashi-cho
• Map of Nakatonbetsu-cho
• Map of Rishiri-cho
• Map of Uglegorsk
• Map of Teshio-cho
• Map of Otoineppu-mura
• Map of Poronaysk
• Map of Nakagawa-cho
• Map of Omu-cho
• Map of Enbetsu-cho
• Map of Bifuka-cho
• Map of Okoppe-cho
• Map of Shosanbetsu-mura
• Map of Sovetskaya Gavan

Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk throughout the year

• Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in January
• Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in February
• Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in March
• Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in April
• Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in May
• Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in June
• Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in July
• Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in August
• Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in September
• Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in October
• Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in November
• Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk in December

Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk?

Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:

Day itineraries for nearby cities

• 3-Day Wakkanai Itinerary
• 3-Day Rishirifuji-cho Itinerary

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Sakhalin: Your Essential Guide to Russia’s Enigmatic Eastern Island

• January 14, 2024

A Journey Through Giant Burdocks, Wild Bears, and the Echoes of Ancient Japanese Temples

From the most dreaded place of exile in the Russian Empire to a Japanese industrial base and one of the most attractive and inaccessible places for domestic tourism in Russia.

Table of Contents

An island that was Russian, then Japanese, and then Russian again

From the 17th to the mid-19th century, it was believed that Sakhalin was a peninsula. This misconception firmly established itself on the maps of the time, as navigators failed to circumnavigate the island. The proximity of Sakhalin’s southern tip to the mainland created a false impression of being impassable for ships. An additional complexity arose from the fact that the route taken by ships from the Russian Empire involved passing through a narrow strait, which Nevelskoy managed to navigate only in 1849.

For a long time, people did not believe Nevelskoy, but he insisted that he had discovered a route through the strait, for which he became something of a hero in Primorye. Monuments and plaques dedicated to him can be found in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, Vladivostok, and Khabarovsk. The H4H creative association created a graphic novel based on this story, which won a cultural initiatives contest and became part of the interior of the Khabarovsk Airport. By the way, the Sakhalin region is the only Russian entity entirely located on islands.

The remote and isolated location of the island during the Russian Empire was used as a natural barrier, and it became the site of penal colonies for hard labor prisoners. Its geographical position led to Sakhalin’s hard labor being regarded as particularly cruel.

During the period of the island’s development, Russian ships followed the Amur River and reached the island from the north, where the oldest port, Alexandrovsk, was founded. The Japanese attempted to develop the island from the south, entering through the Kuril Islands (part of the Sakhalin region) and Aniva Bay. For a long time, the Kurils were inhabited by the Ainu, representatives of a small indigenous people. The very word “Kurils” comes from the Ainu: “kuru” means “man.”

In the 17th century, Japan conducted its first expeditions towards the islands and began their development. Russia reached them later. The first mentions of the islands in Russian language date back to the late 17th century. For a long time, Russian, Dutch, Japanese, and Anglo-French navigators studied the islands, landed on them, and disputed their territorial ownership. However, only Russia and Japan managed to establish a foothold. To end the territorial disputes, the governments of the two countries signed an agreement under which the Kuril Islands went to Japan, and Sakhalin to Russia, which continued to develop the island mainly from the north. After the Russo-Japanese War of 1904-1905, which ended in Russia’s defeat, the southern part of Sakhalin became part of Japan as the Karafuto Prefecture.

Until the second half of the 20th century, the island was owned by Japan and was quite successful in developing its resources. A huge number of mines were opened, several cities and lighthouses were built. In particular, the current regional center, Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, was the former Japanese city of Toyohara. The famous Aniva lighthouse, now considered a symbol of Sakhalin, was built by Japanese engineers. After Japan’s defeat in World War II, the island passed to the Soviet Union. Contrary to history, the main life of the island moved from the north to the south. Alexandrovsk, which was convenient to reach by water, lost to Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk with its infrastructure built by the Japanese, connections to neighboring cities, and airport. Interestingly, before leaving, the Japanese buried and hid the mining sites, and locals say that not all the old mines have been found yet, and they are sometimes stumbled upon during walks.

Because the island belonged to three different countries in just over a hundred years, it did not have time to develop any significant urban infrastructure. The cities lack outstanding architectural monuments and unique museums. However, some unusual Japanese architecture has remained. Meanwhile, Sakhalin compactly houses incredible natural attractions. Here, one can climb through forests and bamboo thickets to breathtakingly beautiful mountains as if outlined in graphite, and through a mountain pass reach the sea, into which clear mountain rivers flow with fish splashing in them.

The Ainu and Nivkh: Inhabitants of Sakhalin

For a long time, the island was mainly inhabited by the Ainu and Nivkh peoples. These ethnic groups are very different, making their coexistence as unusual as the neighboring of birch and bamboo on the slopes of Sakhalin’s mountains. Both are isolate peoples . However, the Ainu belong to the Australoid race, while the Nivkh are Mongoloids (the main population of Asian territories). It’s fascinating how representatives of different races have coexisted for ages on a small piece of land at the edge of the world.

There is no single version regarding the origin of the Ainu, leading to a multitude of theories — both scientific and conspiratorial. One theory suggests that the Ainu are the ancestors of the indigenous population of Australia, remaining in the north after continental migration. Some researchers write that the Ainu are the forebears of the Japanese. This theory is supported by the fact that before Japanese expansion, the Ainu mainly inhabited the Japanese island of Hokkaido. However, the Ainu suffered greatly from Japanese imperialism, and their culture and language were almost completely destroyed in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Now, there are just over two thousand Ainu living on Sakhalin.

The Nivkh are among the indigenous small-numbered peoples of the north. They suffered less from Japanese rule. However, during the Soviet era, they experienced a difficult phase of literacy development, destruction of tribal communities, and relocation to cities. About 2,200 Nivkh live in the Sakhalin region and another approximately two thousand in Khabarovsk.

During the Karafuto period, Japan brought captured Koreans to Sakhalin for hard labor. By the mid-20th century, the Korean population of the island was about 45,000 people. For comparison, the current population of Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk is 180,000. This large number of people, deprived of their homeland, was forced to adapt to life first under Japanese and then Soviet rule. In the USSR, Koreans were issued passports, and there were national kindergartens and schools. However, Sakhalin Koreans did not feel part of the larger community of Soviet Koreans (Koryo-saram) and struggled to integrate. Moreover, they were considered members of an ‘unreliable nation’ because they had lived in the Japanese Empire.

In the late 1990s, three countries – Russia, South Korea, and Japan – began a repatriation campaign for the first generation of Sakhalin Koreans (born before August 15, 1945) to their historical homeland. Now, about 3,500 repatriates from Russia live in South Korea. Under the program, the Korean government provides medical insurance and a monthly allowance to the repatriates. The Japanese government, in turn, buys housing (apartments up to 40 m²) and covers transportation costs. Additionally, every two years, Sakhalin Koreans who have moved to their homeland have the right to visit Sakhalin for free, funded by the Japanese government. Most Sakhalin Koreans settled in the city of Ansan , where 500 apartments were specially built for them.

Korean influence is weakly traced on Sakhalin: many Sakhalin Koreans no longer know the language and do not associate themselves with Korea. However, there are several authentic restaurants (for example, “Koba” ) on the island where you can try traditional dishes.

Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk — the capital and base for exploring the island

The city is predominantly characterized by typical Soviet architecture, with almost no remaining Japanese buildings. This is because during the Soviet period, the city was radically rebuilt after being liberated from ‘imperialist Japanese rule.’ Many buildings were demolished, and from the few that remained, some were turned into museums. Perhaps the main thing that has been preserved from the Japanese period is the layout. The city was founded from scratch near the Russian village of Vladimirovka, and Chicago was chosen as the model for its layout. Toyohara was divided into four parts by two main streets, O-dori (now Lenin) and Maoka-dori (Sakhalinskaya).

Japan established itself thoroughly on the island. In Toyohara, trade routes converged, new bays were developed, and roads were built. The city’s population grew steadily. Initially due to the military garrison, and later due to a paper mill, a sugar and distillery plant. Now, the buildings of the former Japanese factories are abandoned. Many of them can only be accessed with rare tours, while others are completely closed. However, their presence is still recalled by street names, such as Paper Street.

Another building in the Neo-Japanese style is the Karafuto Governorate Museum built in the 1930s (29 Communist Avenue). It now houses the Sakhalin Regional Museum . And in the former bank of colonial development, there is the Art Museum (137 Lenin Street).

Several other iconic buildings constructed by the Japanese have been preserved: the central hospital of Toyohara (41 Chekhov Street), the conference hall of the Karafuto Governorate (30 Dzerzhinsky Street), and the Toyohara City Hall (41 Communist Avenue). The Sakhalin Railway Museum in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk is distinct from many similar museums in Russia due to its exhibits. This is because the island long maintained the Japanese standard of railway gauge, which differs from the Russian standard. Accordingly, the rolling stock was entirely different.

If in Vladivostok everything is named after the Far Eastern explorer and writer Vladimir Arsenyev, then in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, mentions of Chekhov are everywhere. At the end of the 19th century, Sakhalin was both the most dreaded place for exile to hard labor and one of the most tempting corners of Russia, which was not so easy to access. Chekhov received an editorial assignment and embarked on a ship along with prisoners, military personnel, and sailors to the most remote point of the empire. In his notes, which Chekhov compiled under the title ‘The Island of Sakhalin,’ the writer talked about many things: the geography and climate of the island, the life of the convicts, and ordinary residents. This book caused a great resonance at the time, and even now it was very interesting to read it while traveling to Sakhalin: some things have changed drastically, while others have remained the same. Now in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, there is even a museum dedicated to this one book, which turned out to be so significant for the island.

GoSakhalin is the website of the Sakhalin Tourist and Information Center. And in their official Telegram channel , you can find announcements of affordable excursions shortly before they start.

In any case, for travelers, Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk remains primarily a hub and a place of rest. Here they return for the night and dinner, and it seems that real adventures begin outside the doorstep.

Surrounding Area

10–20 kilometers from Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk

The main reason people visit Sakhalin is for its unique nature. Mountains, forests, rivers, lakes, and the sea, all on a small piece of land. In one day, you can travel from the Sea of Okhotsk to the Sea of Japan, cross several climate zones, see bamboo groves, birches, and spruces in one place, spot a running fox and a swimming orca. The island’s landscapes can boldly compete in Instagram appeal with Iceland or Norway.

Within Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk alone, there are about 30 kilometers of marked ecotrails, with brief descriptions and routes available on the official tourism portal. I also found an ecotrail in Nevelsk, which is not mentioned on the official website.

The ecotrails in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk start from the ‘Mountain Air’ ski center on the sopka (a term for mountains in the Far East) Bolshevik. There are five in total: ‘Children’s’ (2.7 kilometers), ‘Eight’ (8 kilometers), ‘Northern Ring’ (9 kilometers), ‘Russian’ (3.2 kilometers), and ‘Yelanka’ (5 kilometers). You can take a cable car to the start of the trails and then slowly descend through the forest and park to the city. However, the lift does not operate in rainy and windy weather.

Hiking the ‘Eight’ trail took me no more than three hours, including stops to catch my breath and take photos. Every kilometer and a half along the route, there are benches. From the top of the mountain, there is a view of Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, and it seems you can see a piece of the Sea of Okhotsk.

Chekhov Peak

The route to Chekhov Peak is a high-mountain trekking path that requires a certain level of physical fitness. Chekhov Peak has an elevation of 1045 meters, with an absolute altitude gain of 752 meters. The trail is narrow and slippery in places, hardly suitable for children or people with limited mobility.

Chekhov Peak is part of the Susunai Range, which supports Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk from the southeast. You can exit from Gagarin city park to the foothills in about half an hour. The ascent to the peak itself cannot be missed: a marked trail and informational signs lead to it. On particularly steep ascents, ropes are hung for safety, but it is possible to walk up the slope without them.

In late spring, the forest trail has many streams, as well as May primroses and butterflies. The foothills are scattered with rare, incredibly large, and wonderfully fragrant marsh callas. Halfway to the peak, bamboo thickets are encountered, through which birches break through. This is also a kind of magic because, as a biologist friend explained to me, birch and bamboo are not supposed to coexist in the natural environment, but somehow they manage to do so. Occasionally, spruces are encountered — not tall, but very fluffy. Closer to the top, the vegetation becomes sparser, and the impressive views of the sea, mountains, and lakes open up from the height.

• The entire hike takes five to six hours.
• Even in summer, there is snow on the summit. In the afternoon, it starts to melt, making it more difficult to walk.
• Don’t forget to bring food and water.
• Wear boots with covered ankles, a jacket, and a head covering.
• Inform your family and friends, and someone living in Sakhalin, before setting out on the route. If you’re traveling alone, you could notify, for example, the hotel receptionist or roommates in a hostel.
• Snakes and bears are found around the trail. Watch your feet and try to make as much noise as possible. For example, play music on your phone and sing along occasionally.
• The ascent to Chekhov Peak can be the start of a journey to the village of Lesnoye on the shore of the Sea of Okhotsk. The distance to the village is 27 kilometers. With good preparation and an early start from Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, this distance can be covered in one day.

Mud Volcano in Klyuchi

A mud volcano is an eruption on the earth’s surface of clay masses, mineralized waters, and gases. The mechanism of formation of these volcanoes is not fully understood. According to the existing theory, such volcanoes are formed near oil fields.

The mud volcano in Klyuchi consists of a mud field about 200 meters in diameter. There, you can see about 20 points of activity, resembling miniature volcano craters. This mud volcano became active in 1959, 1979, 2001, and 2011 (the last time due to a strong earthquake in Japan). During these eruptions, mud columns reached several tens of meters in height. Bus 189 goes to Klyuchi from Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk. The distance from the village to the top of the volcano is nine kilometers and takes about two and a half hours to walk.

Ecopark in the Vestochka area: Frog Rock, Aikhor Waterfall, ‘Sunny Glade’ Recreation Park

Not far from Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, there is a fairly large ecopark, known primarily for the Frog Rock outcrop. An outcrop is a remnant of harder rock around which softer rock has eroded over time. Outcrops are often known for their unusual shapes and are natural monuments. Frog Rock is part of a series of rocks standing one behind the other. This was once the seabed of an ancient sea, and fossilized shells can be found in its vicinity. From the top of the rock, amazing views of the Aniva Bay, Tunaycha and Changeable Lakes open up. This place was sacred to the Ainu, the indigenous inhabitants of the island.

The trail to the ‘Sunny Glade’ ecopark begins behind the ‘Electron’ culture house. Despite its name, it is not a city park, but a full-fledged forest with laid-out paths. There are houses, glades with tables for rest where you can cook barbecues, and wooden walkways leading to various attractions. These are all paid services.

The path to Frog Rock outcrop goes along the Komissarovka River. In areas of spring flooding, callas bloom and bamboo grows. The outcrop is located on a hill, with a total elevation gain of about 300 meters. The road is quite challenging, usually taking from an hour to an hour and a half. The higher you climb, the more you can see: the sea, the mountain gorge, the road to Vestochka. In the same park is the Aikhor Waterfall, which is also a short climb away, but along a less well-maintained trail. You can plan a whole day to visit Vestochka and even spend the night, without returning to Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk.

Vestochka is three high-rise buildings on one side of the road and a cottage settlement on the other. It is part of Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, though located 15 kilometers from the main part of the city. A taxi there costs about 1000 rubles and takes 40 minutes. About a kilometer after turning off the main road, the asphalt ends and a terribly dusty dirt road begins. If you’re lucky, you can catch a bus that runs three times a day.

What else to see on the island

40 kilometers from Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk

The oldest city in the south of Sakhalin, founded by Nevelskoy’s expedition. Here you can find a huge number of monuments dedicated to sailors, naval battles, and ships. The most significant monument in the city in recent decades has become the stele dedicated to ‘Koreans interned by the Japanese in Sakhalin, who never returned to their homeland,’ located on Mount Sorrow, created through the efforts of three countries’ governments (Russia, Japan, and Korea).

In Korsakov, some Japanese heritage has been preserved: the former building of the Hokkaido Takushoku Bank, a colonial development bank (Sovetskaya Street, 3), trade warehouses in the port, a document storage facility ‘Bunsyoko’ (Krasnoflotskaya Street, 1), a couple of rusty fire hydrants, and remnants of Shinto temples in the form of pillars with hieroglyphs. One of the local nighttime entertainments is watching the lights of the gas processing plant.

How to get there. Three electric trains a day, the journey takes just over an hour, and the ticket costs 75 rubles (0.72 euros).

Bird and Giant Capes

90 kilometers from Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk

Two capes, recognized as natural monuments in 1990, along whose coasts are many wind and wave-carved grottoes, caves, arches, and columns of various sizes and whimsical shapes, among which colonies of sea birds reside.

The place is not very close, but it’s very picturesque at any time of the year. In the area of one of the rocks, there is a pool where, during the salmon spawning period, you can observe a fascinating spectacle — a huge gathering of pink salmon.

Many tourists stay on the coast overnight to witness the sunset and sunrise. Near Cape Giant, there is a toilet, parking, and a rest area with benches.

How to get there. The journey from Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk goes through the village of Okhotskoe, where you can buy fresh crabs, and takes about three hours one way. The road is fully passable only by high vehicles like Mitsubishi Pajero, Suzuki Jimny, as the last ten kilometers of the route have deep puddles, potholes, small cliffs, and rivers.

Nevelsk and Steller Sea Lions

Nevelsk is nestled between mountains and sea. The rocky mountains and the coast, which consists of small stone needles and shells, in every way explain why Chekhov so often mentioned in ‘The Island of Sakhalin’ how harsh the land of Sakhalin is.

Steller sea lions are the largest of the eared seals. One of their habitats is the breakwater in Nevelsk. As soon as you arrive in the town, the smell from the Steller sea lions’ haul-out site hits you. ‘They eat there, live, give birth to their young – that’s why it smells,’ the locals explain. Another feature is the noise. Steller sea lions are very loud!

You can view the sea lions from the central square, where binoculars are installed. However, tourists usually hire a boat and approach the haul-out site to get a closer look at the seals. You can see how the Steller sea lions bark, lie in the sun, jump into the sea and, most interestingly, try to jump back. The views from the square through binoculars are not as detailed and impressive. A place on the boat will cost 1000–1500 rubles (9.65 – (14.48 euros). You can also buy a tour from Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk for 3500 rubles (33.79 euros). The most animals are present in spring and early summer. In autumn, there may be a couple of dozen individuals left.

From the embankment, you can observe the huge kelp laminaria floating in the sea. Some travelers catch them themselves and eat them. Although dishes made from seaweed are found in cafes and also sold in stores. Signs are installed on the shore indicating where to run in case of a tsunami. The last major earthquake with waves was recorded in 2007. Many houses were destroyed and two people died. The most famous Sakhalin tsunami was the 1952 tragedy , when the aftermath of the earthquake almost completely destroyed Severo-Kurilsk.

How to get there. From the bus station (Karl Marx Street, 51b) in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, buses go to Nevelsk, the ticket costs 300 rubles (2.90 euros), and the journey takes about an hour. Tickets can be purchased at the bus station ticket office or from the driver (cash or transfer). It’s not possible to board the bus somewhere in the city, as the bus does not make stops. It’s better to buy a return ticket immediately upon arrival in Nevelsk at the Nevelsk bus station ticket office (Lenina Street, 1). The bus is popular with locals, and there may simply be no seats left.

Remnants of structures from the Karafuto period include the Maoka-Jinja temple with a Japanese-style garden and an abandoned railway built by the Japanese. It used to connect Kholmsk with Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk. Tourists usually come to see two photogenic bridges – Devil’s and Witch’s – and a tunnel in the mountain that makes a full circle inside it. The trail passes along the old rails, and there are many vipers, so one needs to watch their step.

How to get there. The bus to Kholmsk takes two hours, the ticket costs 450 rubles (4.34 euros), with 14 trips a day.

Slepikovsky Cape and Lighthouse

120 kilometers from Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk

At Slepikovsky Cape, there is the only relic grove of Korean cedar on Sakhalin. Also located here is the functioning Slepikovsky Lighthouse, which is a 27-meter tall round tower, connected by corridors to utility and residential buildings.

The cape and lighthouse are named after the commander of the Russian partisan detachment Bronislav Grotto-Slepikovsky, who operated in Southern Sakhalin during the 1904–1905 war. The route to the lighthouse goes through the villages of Yablochnoe and Sadovniki, where some of the best beaches on Sakhalin are located — with the cleanest water and white sand.

How to get there. The cape is located 29 kilometers north of Kholmsk. From Kholmsk to the turn towards the lighthouse, there is asphalt with dirt sections. From the turn to the lighthouse, there is first a dirt road, then beach sand, which is recommended to be driven on with deflated tires. Visiting time is from spring to autumn, as the road to the cape is not cleared in winter.

110 kilometers from Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk

In 1891, when the island had a penal colony, this was the Russian village of Siraroko, named after a nearby Ainu settlement. In 1905, the south of Sakhalin was given to the Japanese, and the village was renamed Higashi Shiraura. Here there were a railway station, a brick factory, and a coal mine. 40 years later, the settlement was renamed Vzmorye.

During the Japanese times, there was the Shinto shrine Higashi Shiraura Inari-Jinja. Only the torii gates remain — P-shaped gates without doors that are placed on the path to a Shinto shrine. These are the only torii on Sakhalin. On the torii, there is an inscription ‘In honor of the 2600th anniversary of the foundation of Great Japan’ — this mythological date was widely celebrated in 1940.

On the way to the torii, you can see the famous giant burdocks and bear’s garlic. Vzmorye is also known as a place where poached crabs are sold along the highway.

How to get there. Two electric trains and one train that start from Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk stop in Vzmorye. Unfortunately, all three are in the evening. You can also get there on passing buses that go to the north of the island.

Tikhaya Bay

140 kilometers from Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk

On one side, the bay is framed by Mount Smely, and on the other side, the majestic Zhdanko Ridge begins. To the left in the bay itself is an island-kekur, which can be reached during low tide, as well as the epic cliffs of Tikhaya Cape. By the way, behind this cape, there are waterfalls that become icefalls in winter. At the base of the bay is the mouth of the Tikhaya River, where during the season you can see the spawning of pink salmon and chum salmon. Bears are aware of this, so they are often encountered here.

How to get there. Buses going to Poronaysk stop in the village of Tikhoye, near which the bay is located. There are four trips a day.

Aniva Lighthouse

The lighthouse has a complex history: there were attempts to maintain it under Soviet rule, but Aniva was so remote from inhabited areas that it was not profitable. Eventually, the lighthouse was switched to autonomous mode, bringing in a radioactive isotope to sustain its operation, and then it was completely closed. To this day, you can find signs on the walls reading ‘Caution, radioactive’. But now this warning is outdated, as the radioactive isotope was removed when the lighthouse was decommissioned. The lighthouse is very beautiful, offering views of the island and sea, and inside you can explore the remnants of rooms and working areas.

On the return trip, tourists are also taken to Mramornaya Bay, where you can also climb a mountain and view the jagged coast of Sakhalin from above. Orcas and whales are often encountered in these areas, most frequently in summer. I would also recommend taking a combined tour in summer to Aniva Lighthouse, the Blue Lakes, and Busse Lagoon, where you can see the amazingly blue waters and try sea urchins.

A kilometer from Novikov is Cape Tri Kamnya (46.320342 143.373006), which can even be reached by car. Four kilometers from the cape is the small Strelka waterfall , which requires a walk. If you stay in the village overnight, you can take a hike to the Blue (turquoise) Lakes (46.359603, 143.471909). On the way, there’s an abandoned Japanese power station. You can extend your route by another 15 kilometers and reach the opposite shore of the peninsula – to Cape Evstafiya. The road from Novikov to Cape Evstafyeva through the Blue Lakes can be driven in a jeep, if there hasn’t been prolonged rain before. But it’s better to ask in advance those who have recently been there, and get the phone number of a local tractor driver in Novikov, so that if something happens, he can pull you out.

How to get there. Getting there independently is almost impossible. The lighthouse is located on a rocky outcrop in the sea, and the nearest land is a high cliff. However, some people do reach Novikovo (the nearest village) by bus or car, and then walk 44 kilometers on foot to Aniva (the name of both the lighthouse and the bay). It takes about one and a half hours to drive from Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk to Novikovo. And then another two hours of rough dirt road to the boat dock. A tour from the company ‘Friends-Hikers’ costs 6000 rubles (57.92 euros) in May (in summer – 7000 rubles (67.58 euros)).

Klokovsky Waterfall

190 kilometers from Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk

Klokovsky Waterfall is one of the highest waterfalls on Sakhalin Island. Its height is variously reported to be 48–49 meters, with a width of up to nine meters. The waterfall is accessible year-round, but is most full in late spring and early summer.

Alexandrovsk-Sakhalinsky

The ‘Tri Brata’ (Three Brothers) rocks are definitely a symbol of Alexandrovsk-Sakhalinsky, and perhaps of the entire island. They are located in the Alexandrovsk Gulf almost opposite Cape Zhonkiyor. From the cape, there is a stunning view of the vast Tatar Strait and the Three Brothers. At low tide, it’s possible to calmly explore all the attractions of the gulf, collect seaweed and shells, see hermit crabs scuttling along the seabed with their shells on their backs, or watch the leaves of laminaria sway. At the strongest low tide, you can even walk to the Three Brothers through the water.

In the 19th century, convicts carved a 90-meter tunnel through Cape Zhonkiyor to service the lighthouse. To reach the tunnel by land, you need to come at low tide. Otherwise, you’ll have to climb the rocks. The tunnel is lined with logs, but there is almost always water at the bottom and a strong wind howls through it. If you pass through the tunnel, you will see the ‘Tri Sestry’ (Three Sisters) rocks and an old lighthouse from the end of the 19th century. All these places are described by Chekhov in ‘The Island of Sakhalin’: ‘Most often we went to the lighthouse, which stands high above the valley, on Cape Zhonkiyor. During the day, the lighthouse, if looked at from below, is a modest white house with a mast and lantern, but at night it shines brightly in the darkness, and then it seems that the penal colony looks at the world with its red eye. The road to the house climbs steeply, winding around the mountain, past old larches and firs. The higher you climb, the freer you breathe; the sea spreads before your eyes, thoughts gradually come, having nothing to do with the prison, the penal colony, or the exile settlement, and only then do you realize how dull and difficult life is down below.’

How to get there. From Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, there is one bus trip per day – at 12:10. The ticket costs 2200 rubles (21.24 euros), and the journey takes nine hours.

600 kilometers from Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk

The main transit point on the way to the oil refineries. The village might be of interest to those curious to see a harsh northern town living off production: low-rise buildings made of siding and unexpectedly bright murals on the walls of five-story buildings. There is a local history museum in the village (Sovetskaya Street, 3) – it is praised for its excellent exhibition of the Nivkh culture and a monument to Nevelskoy. Also, one of the longest rivers of Sakhalin, the Tym (which translates from Nivkh as ‘spawning river’), flows through the town.

How to get there. A night train goes to Nogliki every day, taking almost 12 hours. The cheapest ticket in a seated carriage costs 1100 rubles (10.62 euros), a compartment – 4100 (39.58 euros). There is even a luxury (SV) carriage for 12600 rubles (121.64 euros).

Where to Stay

Hostels in the Far East are divided into work and tourist types. The former will also accommodate tourists, but the atmosphere there is like a dormitory where their own rules are already established, and you may feel like an uninvited guest. To avoid such a hostel, it’s important to carefully read the reviews, not book the cheapest hostels, not stay on the outskirts or near airports and train stations.

In the Islander hostel , mainly travelers stay, it’s very cozy, with convenient kitchen and showers with toilets. A double room costs 3000 rubles per day, and dorms – from 900 rubles (8.69 euros) per night. If you book directly through the website and for a long term, you can get a good discount.

The ‘Moneron’ hotel is located near the railway and bus stations. It’s a classic budget hotel with small clean rooms. The ‘comfort’ class rooms have a bath, and the hotel provides a complete set with slippers, towels, and a hairdryer. Prices start from 2800 rubles (27.03 euros) per night for a single economy room, while ‘comfort’ costs 4900 rubles (47.30 euros). Breakfast is included in the price.

The ‘Belka’ hotel building is made using Finnish technology in a wooden style from milled timber. The cost of large rooms with wooden walls and huge beds starts from 5800 rubles (55.99 euros). Breakfast is also included in the price. The hotel complex includes a sauna, spa, tavern, and gym.

Near Bussé Bay is the island’s only dome-shaped glamping site. A night for two costs 8000-10,000 rubles (77.23 – 96.54 euros). An extra bed is 2000 (19.31 euros). Each dome has a shower, toilet, and electricity. On cooler days, you can light the stove and sit by the fire with a cup of hot cocoa.

In other towns, apart from Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, the choice of hotels is quite modest and usually limited to one or two hotels, which cannot always be booked online. They have to be found on the map and booked by phone.

Transport on the Island

Car. If you’re only traveling between cities, there won’t be any problems – the roads between them are mostly paved, and the dirt roads are of more or less good quality. It gets more complicated with natural attractions. Almost all of them are accessed by dirt roads, which not every car can navigate.

In Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, ‘Yandex.Taxi’ and ‘Maxim’ operate (also in Korsakov and Kholmsk). A trip within the city limits will cost a maximum of 300 rubles (2.90 euros).

Railway. From Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, about 30 electric trains depart daily. Most of them go to nearby areas like Dalnyaya, Khristoforovka, and Novoaleksandrovka stations – 8–23 minutes travel time.

To other cities, there’s only one electric train per day. It takes an hour to Korsakov and the ticket costs 80 rubles (0.77 euro). To Tomari, it’s four hours and 300 rubles (2.90 euros). To Poronaysk, it’s five hours of travel and 500 rubles (4.83 euros) for a ticket. Long-distance electric trains depart in the evening, as these routes are used by residents of the province who return from work in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk to their homes.

There is also one train on the island – Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk to Nogliki, 12 hours of travel and 1100 rubles (10.62 euros) for a ticket in a sitting carriage.

Buses. It seems you can reach even the most remote settlements by bus. Often there’s only one trip per day, but at least it exists. To Kholmsk, Nevelsk, and Korsakov, the journey takes about an hour and a half, with tickets costing around 300 rubles (2.90 euros); to Poronaysk and Uglegorsk, it’s four to five hours and 1200 rubles (11.58 euros) for a ticket. You can check the current schedule on avtovokzaly.ru . But it’s always better to double-check by phone: +7 (4242) 72-25-53. The address of the bus station is Karl Marx Street, 51b.

Airplane. Sakhalin has a quite extensive network of airports, and you can fly from Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk to Okha, Zonalnoye, Shakhtyorsk, Poronaysk, Smirnykh, Yuzhno-Kurilsk, and Iturup. Flights are operated by the Far Eastern airlines ‘Aurora’ and ‘Taiga’ . These routes are served by small propeller planes Bombardier and Mi-8 helicopters. Such a flight is an interesting experience in itself. Moreover, some flights are quite inexpensive. For example, to Zonalnoye, Shakhtyorsk, and Poronaysk, tickets cost 2000–3000 rubles (19.31 – 28.96 euros) one way. To Okha and the Kurils – from 6000 rubles (57.92 euros).

Ferry. From Korsakov, ferries run to different settlements in the Kurils every three to four days. The ferry to Kurilsk takes about 22 hours, to Yuzhno-Kurilsk – 22–30 hours, and to Malokurilskoye – about 40 hours. Interestingly, a ticket to any of these settlements costs from 2800 rubles (27.03 euros), available on the website of the ferry company.

How to get there

By plain. To travel to Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk from Europe, passengers typically fly through major transit hubs. Common routes involve flying from a European city to one of the major Russian airports offering direct flights to Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, such as Moscow’s Sheremetyevo or Domodedovo airports. In 2023 it is only possible to fly to Moscow from major transit hubs such as Istanbul or Erevan. From there, travelers can catch one of the direct flights to the island. Some routes might also include stops or transfers in other large cities in Russia or Asia, depending on the airline and the flight itinerary, for instance, Novosibirsk, Krasnoyarsk, Irkutsk, Ulan-Ude, Chita, Blagoveshchensk, Vladivostok, Khabarovsk, Komsomolsk-on-Amur, Sovetskaya Gavan, and Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky. There is even one international flight from Harbin, China.

In good weather, on approach to Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, you can see the Tatar Strait, the Western Ridge, and the city itself. The airport is located within the city limits, and from there, you can easily reach any point by public transport (buses 63 and 3) or taxi.

Ferry. Vanino (Khabarovsk Krai) to Kholmsk (Sakhalin) . Passenger tickets for the ferry are sold at the Vanino railway station or at the ticket office in Kholmsk (Lenin Square, 5). They can also be reserved by phone: +7 (42137) 74088 (Vanino), +7 (42433) 50880 (Kholmsk). The ferries run daily, with a journey time of 18–20 hours. A seat costs 650 rubles (6.27 euros), while the cheapest cabin spot is 1400 rubles (13.52 euros). There is a dining room on board.

I was on the island in early May, and this has its pros and cons. On one hand, it’s already not very cold in Sakhalin at this time, and you can walk around in a light jacket or sweatshirt, and sometimes even just in a T-shirt. At the end of spring, you can catch the largest number of Steller sea lions in Nevelsk (closer to summer they migrate towards Avacha Bay). Also at this time, you can see the forest awakening: streams penetrate it from all sides, in their floodplains swamp callas bloom, meadows fill with primroses, and the hills are covered with bright green bamboo shoots. On the other hand, there is still snow in the mountains, in which you can get stuck while climbing, and the sea, which is not very warm in these areas, is completely unsuitable for swimming.

In summer, Sakhalin is not very hot, the coast blooms with wild roses, the sea warms up a bit, and there is less chance of bad weather when visiting remote attractions. Also, it’s precisely at this time you can see orcas (June – July) and whales (July – August), as well as the salmon spawning.

In winter, snowboarders and skiers come to Sakhalin. The mountains on the island are not high, so they are suitable even for beginners.

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