"Richard Casady" wrote in message
...
On Thu, 07 Feb 2008 20:47:51 +0100, Heikki wrote:

Here is a simple idea: Add some straps to the fold-out design, and tie
your
fenders under them when you use the dinghy. They give at least some
flotation, and may be easily available while your boat is on anchor
somewhere... Probably not living up to the legal requirements in some
places, but might work.

Sufficiet flotation would have obvious safety benefits, but even a
little would make the thing easier to find if ,you happrn to swamp it.
My dad lost my favorite boat when I was a kid. In twenty feet of frest
water.

Casady


Well I've finished mine, and it floats, completely full of water, even with
me sitting in it.
Did not surprise me, as plastic and plywood usually floats.
So I guess it does not need added floatation.
If someone was real worried about it, you could add foam water pipe tubing
to the top of the plywood sides.
2- 6 foot pieces of foam would easily hold 200 pds afloat.
We only use one in physical therapy, and it keeps my 180pds afloat.
Also foam would protect sides from dock rub.
If you used an outboard, then yes extra floatation would be needed, but I
row.