Reversing Entropyvideo
Pros and CONS of Rigid Dinghies / Oc-Tender or ASTenders For Cruising Sailboat.
July 21, 2025 · 9 min · 7K views
What this video covers
The AST tender, a rigid fiberglass dinghy, offers significant weight savings and durability compared to traditional inflatable RIBs. An AST tender weighs 47 kilograms, roughly half the 88-kilogram weight of a comparable 310 Cadet RIB from Zodiac.▶ 1:44 The rigid hull planes easily with a 9.9-horsepower outboard and provides efficient rowing performance.▶ 2:24 Unlike inflatables, the fiberglass construction resists UV degradation and eliminates the risk of punctures.▶ 5:33 However, the rigid design lacks the shock absorption of inflatable tubes, resulting in a harsher ride in chop.▶ 3:19 The dinghy also requires dedicated deck or davit space, as it cannot be deflated or folded for storage.▶ 3:56 Stability differs from inflatables, making boarding from the water more difficult due to the hull's tendency to heel when pulled.▶ 7:45 Additionally, the hard fiberglass hull can scratch the mothership's topsides and creates noise against the hull at anchor.▶ 6:48 These tenders carry a premium price, with the AST model retailing for approximately 18,300 Euro.▶ 8:26
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