First impressions of the
Classic 310 alum RIP.
I have owned a series of inflatatables since 1995 beginning with an
Avon Redcrest and finally 2 Aquapros
aluminum RIBs. The last Aquapro, which was poorly manufactured in
China began coming apart and was finally replaced last week with the Highfield C310
Classic 310 - Highfield Boats
The
boat is available in Hyaplon or PVC.
construction is very robust and very neat
6 welded on lifting rings
double floor
powder coated
aluminum
two seat locations (comes with one seat)
cushioned removable waterproof seat cover with multiple zippered pockets
two welded bow eyes
2 robust towing D rings
bow locker (accommodates 3 gallon
fuel tank)
non skid on floor and bow locker
very robust rub rail
17" Ø tubes, large diameter alum oars (stowed inside, strong oar locks)
multiple hand hold straps on top of tubes glued on sub assembly (good!)
includes
water proof
boat cover,
repair kit,
pump, and heavy duty waterproof bag
velcro loop to manage painter inside a port bow
Boat appears light and fast.... planes easily with 2 adults with an 8hp
robust hand holds at stern and bow. Dry! Bow locker makes a great rear facing seat.
Cost for the PVC is very reasonable. Hypalon version is about $1,000 more.
This is an Italian design, with
parts apparently manufactured in
Poland? and assembled in
China. My second Aquapro had
paint adhesion problems and I see AB now does the alum. boats without
paint. We'll see how this one holds up. Expectation is 5-8 yrs. Tows well... bow seems to be a bit high (drier?)
Interior volume is larger than the Aquapro of the same length
I am very pleased with everything about this boat... especially the bow locker to keep the
fuel (hose runs under the the sole). I would have preferred a darker gray... this is almost white and shows dirt too easily.
OAL first impressions... 2 thumbs up! We'll see how long this lasts.