Aluminum vs Fiberglass Rigid Inflatable Boats

One of the most common questions we get from our customers is, "should I buy an aluminum or fiberglass boat?"
Now, while both boats are great, the answer to this question really depends on how you plan to use the boat. Deciding which one is best for your own personal needs depends on your own personal priorities.
Let's go over what each boat brings to the table:

ALUMINUM
Aluminum boats usually weigh substantially less than fiberglass boats of the same size, which means they require smaller power to propel through the water, also contributing to lower operating costs. Their lower weight means that aluminum boats are easier to launch and load at the boat ramp, easier to push on or off sandbars, and easier to trailer around with a small tow vehicle.
One of the most noted features of an aluminum hull vessel is its “toughness.” The material is resistant to minor impacts and can take on rocky underwater obstacles and shallow depths. While the hull may bend or scratch, chances are the material won’t break. Aluminum can also be welded, making repairs much easier if needed.

FIBERGLASS
Fiberglass boats tend to weigh more, so they generally have better seakeeping abilities and more stability than aluminum boats. Their higher weight means fiberglass boats don’t get easily manipulated by the wind, so they tend to move slower and more predictably.
Many people feel the crisp, clean look of fiberglass can’t be beaten. Fiberglass hulls have a smooth and quieter ride than their aluminum counterparts. The material is more forgiving and absorbs sound better than aluminum. It’s a little more comfortable underfoot as it absorbs movement whereas aluminum tends to reflect movement which might make for a jolting ride.

Boaters who often cruise the waters of rocky or obstacle-ridden rivers and beaches, for example, typically opt for aluminum boats since hull damage could be a perpetual issue with a fiberglass boat.
On the flip side of the equation, boaters who regularly cruise across open, choppy coasts often prefer fiberglass boats so they get a smoother ride cruising to and from the fishing grounds.

It's also true that a boater’s individual needs play just as big a role in determining whether aluminum or fiberglass will be ideal for them, personally. If you are planning to use the boat solo, or would not have assistance carrying the boat back and forth, you may want to consider aluminum to make transferring less troublesome. On the other hand, if you are interested in fishing or crabbing solo, being blown off course could become very problematic in which case a fiberglass boat would be a better fit.

Now that you know the pros and cons associated with each, you should be able to make the best call and find the aluminum or fiberglass boat that will be the perfect addition to your family. You really can't go wrong with either choice and may end up getting one of each to cover all of your and your family's future fun on the water!