Even with just a 3.3-hp, two-stroke outboard attached, inflatables like the Mercury 240 pictured here, can nearly make it up on a plane. However, for our evaluations, speed was not as important as stability and interior volume.

Inflatables have come a long way in a short time. Take a look at the Zodiac CZ7 (photo below). The CZ7, which stands for Civilian Zodiac 7 meter, can travel 50-plus mph, handle up to 300 horsepower, has ample seating, and can house the latest in electronics with room to spare. It sells for just under $200,000 with a pair of 150-hp outboards.

But no matter how big, fast, and fancy inflatables get, there will always be a need for small inflatable tenders that can be deflated, rolled up, and stowed in 10 to 20 minutes. In fact, Steve Lance, vice president of Defender Industries, told us that out of the…