The EZ-Raft dinghy combines minimal storage space requirements with fast operational readiness. To achieve this, the manufacturer has opted for Dacron fabric instead of PVC or Hypalon to cover the buoyancy bodies made of thin plastic. The mirror is also smaller and lighter. This made the EZ-Raft the absolute exotic in the big comparison test. Advantages: 11 kilograms in weight instead of an average of 24, and the pack size was also by far the smallest. But the design also had disadvantages: The design made no provision for a cockpit; people simply sat on top of the centre tube. In addition, the small transom could not hold a heavy outboard motor. The four-stroke engine with 5 hp pushed the design to its limits. However, it worked well with a light electric drive.
Now, with the Q models, the manufacturer has a completely new design on offer that is still extremely light and packs small. The Q models now offer a cockpit, almost like conventional dinghies. This is achieved with an additional tube. Between the large outer air chambers are now two smaller ones that form the floor and thus create space for additional cargo. The mirror also has more space as a result and can therefore possibly withstand more torque from more powerful drives. According to the manufacturer, 30 kilos instead of 20 are now possible. However, it is certainly counterproductive to motorise a super-light inflatable boat with a multiple of its own weight. A lightweight electric motor would certainly make more sense here. But paddling is also possible.
Pumping yourself was yesterday
In addition to the dinghy itself, the scope of delivery includes a rechargeable electric pump. This means that the larger volume of the tubes is not a disadvantage, as the EZ-Raft fills with air at the touch of a button. The paddles are telescopic and permanently attached. This means they take up little space and cannot be forgotten or lost. The bag supplied holds all the components and makes transport and storage easier. The electric pump weighs just one kilogramme and measures a compact 19 x 17 x 8 centimetres. It manages at least three complete inflation cycles on one battery charge.
A special feature is the versatility of the pump. It can be connected to 12-volt vehicle electrical systems as well as 110- and 220-volt sockets. The charging time is just a few hours. A cigarette lighter plug is used for the connection on board, alternatively EU and US sockets work.
The Q models of the EZ-Raft are available in five sizes from 2.40 to 3.60 metres in length. The price starts at 1,090 euros for the 2.40 metre version. For comparison: the T250 we tested costs 890 euros. So for 200 euros more, you get the new design with more and better usable storage space. In addition, an engine weight of 30 kilograms is specified for the new mirror construction. The T version weighed 20 kilograms.
