Hi All: Just purchased a new Eastern 24' boat. These boats represents
a "Maine" lobster looking type of boat & it will be for pleasure only.
I want to buy a small inflatable that I will keep on top of the roof
(outside) of the cabin. Hence, I want to keep the weight down
considerably, so it will be easier to remove & throw into the water.
Also, I just bought a small 2HP Honda four stroke that weights in @ 27
lbs.

I looked @ some Achilles inflatbales (LEX88)& they are made from
Hypalon. I was told that Hypalon holds up much better then PVC
inflatables. I spoke with a Achilles dealer & he said Hypalon in glued
together vs. machine made PVC & that Hypalon holds up better in warmer
climates. We live in New England, so this doesn't apply up here. I'm
saying to myself "Geez...This guy is a Achilles dealer & he's saying,
don't buy Hypalon inflatable if you live in a colder area" Doesn't
make any sense! Is he not trying the sell a boat or what? Maybe he's
just being honest.

I like the Achilles a lot. I do have a older (6 years old) "Force
Four" rigid-hulled inflatable that's PVC & it's been a gem!!!! I just
deflate it every year & store it under our deck outside & put a cover
over it. Force Four are no longer sold in the US anymore, what a pity
considering I would buy another one on the spot! I guess I'm looking
for some insight from you. Should I buy a PVC or Hypalon inflatable?
BTW, keep in mind that this inflatable will get used maybe 10 times in
a short New England season.

Here's a couple of other inflatables I looked at:

West Marine (Made by Zodiac): Not bad looking rig.
Avon: Great but way too expensive for me!
Quicksliver (Mercury) line: On the ropes with QS. Heard that their not
the best.
Zodiac: Too pricy.
Achilles: Looks good @ a decent price!

That's about it.

Thanks for listening!

Alex