UPDATE: (May 2022). I no longer own this boat. I took up aviation/flying lessons and had to liquidate some gear. The boat was a great boat and functioned as advertised. I do have a few thoughts in retrospect. The original plan was to have a boat that I could store in my pickup so we could have water access while towing a travel trailer. That ended up being harder than it sounds. This can be setup with one person, but it's a lot. I ended up leaving it setup on the trailer which made life much easier. The only real downside to this boat for me was operating it on choppy water. As an inflatable the hull didn't "cut" through the waves. It would ride on top which made for a very bumpy and sometimes uncomfortable ride. Given that I kept it setup, a standard boat or rigid hull boat may have been a better option. Having said that, the boat was awesome and fun. My family had a blast with it. It was a durable boat that is well made, and when I sold it and the motor they worked as they did when it was new. UPDATE: I purchased this boat two years ago. Last season due to heavy rains and flooding of most lakes in my area, I was not able to take the boat out. In addition to that, I inherited my dad's Corvette which means the boat has not been garage kept for almost 20 months. It has been on a trailer in my back yard under a cover/tarp. The motor has been in the garage on a stand, and I have been starting the motor periodically with the prop in a tub of water, but I must admit, I hadn't started it in over six months. Well, today I took it out. There was minimal air loss. I probably could have taken it out without adding any air at all. The motor started on the second pull. It was awesome. So after sitting outside for many months from sub zero to ninety degrees plus, this boat held up. I get a lot of question regarding how I transport the boat over the highway/roads. I found a small watercraft trailer and modified using this guy's video for guidance: ruclips.net/video/BzmDk3yP7fQ/видео.html
I had a Saturn boat for quite awhile before buying my 16 ft Legend/90 HP Mercury and I may go back to an inflatable once again. One thing though, those wheels are not rated for highway use, only for local pulling by hand. How do you deal with the highway hauling....
@@TOURMANBOB I modified a small watercraft trailer for actual road/highway transport. I followed the instructions in another video here on RUclips (added the link to the pinned comment). Those transom wheels are only good for slow short campground or launch area transport. Definitely not for the highway.
That's awesome! I got my pilots license at 18 after a looong time of training and whatnot, I have a kitfox S7 sti and have taken it pretty much everywhere I can here in az, I am 21 now and take my bris boat with me on my flights when I can afford to spare the weight and space to putt around some remote lakes and camp out where little to no people have called before!
I picked up a Saturn heavy-duty FB365 with aluminum floor. The boat is similar in size to this one in the review. I have watched and read many RUclips post where people use transom wheels. I almost ordered wheels when I bought my boat, but waited. This turned out to be a blessing. For those of you who are ordering boats with aluminum floors, be aware of the extra weight and assembly time, which is considerable. After you put the floor in you need to pick the sides of the boat up and put something under the floor so you can attach the stringers. The stringer is a U-shaped piece of aluminum that keeps the floor from buckling. It's a real PITA to get in under the tubes, and I usually end up deflating the boat tubes a fair amount to get those in. Lifting the whole side of the boat up isn't fun either. It's heavy. The other thing I wanted to mention is the front of the boat was way heavier than anticipated. The total weight of the boat is 175 pounds, and is not as though the front of the boat is 20lbs. I would think it's a good 60 or 70 pounds to pick up, and if you have a gas tank or marine battery, forget it. And remember if you're pulling the boat out of water and up a ramp you're increasing the resistance that much more. How's your back? How old are you? I have two herniated disc myself and just shy of 60, so picking the boat up was not an option. Even with a good back, lifting 60+ pounds is work, and you will more than likely have to make several trips for your gas tank and battery. How much time do you want to spend loading your boat? Bottom line is I would strongly consider an inflatable floor. Aluminum is nice, but it's damn heavy, and whole lot of work to install. If you leave your boat on the trailer most of the time and launch off the trailer, then fine, but otherwise it's hardly portable. I can't imagine setting up a 175 pound boat, and than lifting another hundred plus pound motor if you boat often. I think you would have to be mad or 20 years old with lots of energy and muscle! And remember most of these motors are at least 100 pounds, even the 9.9's. I think you really need to ask yourself if you can manage that kind of weight. For me, using one of these boats as a "portable" was crazy. I set mine up once a year with the help of a hoist in my garage, and leave it on the trailer. I launch the boat from the trailer, and drive the boat up on the trailer to get out of the river. Just like a big stationary boat. The great thing is at the end of the season my boat is not sitting out under the elements rotting. I bring it back in the garage and break it all down. The outboard goes on a stand, and the boat gets rolled up and put away after a good cleaning. And remember to add some 303 sealant to the boat! UV and heat is murder on the PVC glues, not to mention high humidity. Make sure you have good ventilation. And be safe out there!
I have a Viamare 380 with Alufloor, and it's no hassle to install it. Just inflate it 1/3 to 1/2 and install the floor, then inflate to 100% (it's mentioned in the user manual, and several other places on youtube) Your boat might be different, but I can't see why it should be any different.
My comment was more about just the aluminum floor. The gist of it was really about portability and energy required to load and unload. I also tried to mention physical condition as I think that's a consideration too. Somebody in their 20s would probably not find getting the boat to the water that big of a deal versus somebody in their 50s or 60s. I would say the aluminum floor adds at least 20 minutes if not 30 to the set-up. And you do need to have a flat area to set-up and rock free. If are going to a trailer then that means getting the boat from the ground on to the trailer as well. The boat without anything in it is 175 pounds. I don't know about you but that's pretty darn heavy to me, and a PITA to move around--wheels or no wheels. The boat without the aluminum floor is in the 130 lb range, and that's a lot more manageable. An inflatable floor would be far easier, and faster to set up. If you're talking about using the boat off the trailer all year round then I don't see the aluminum floor as that big of a deal as you're only setting up and breaking down twice a season. Otherwise, portable takes on a whole new meaning.
Thanks for the honest great review on the inflatable boat. I have always wanted one. And this is worthy of consideration. Best wishes from Australia. Thanks for sharing with us
I have a 3 year old 14 foot double thick very heavy boat 200lbs floor 100lbs --300 lbs total --got it for same reason you did and glad --holding up very nice no leaks no glue fails solid -- made trailer that disassembles for lauch but not street travel --good vid thanks will try to post a vid 👍
I have this boat with 2006 mercury 25hp 2 stroke. Absolutely great boat, except could have maybe more durable underneath. Has held up well over last 2 years. With 25hp and 2 people and 45lt fuel plus gear it flys!
Hi, I have Seamax 380 ocean , 12.5ft very similar to BRIS got it from a guy about 5 months ago, he purchased it brand new from online 2017 , also brand new Honda BF20 , so far no issues, got the trailer a week after I purchased the boat. Only thing I didn't like about the boat is the keel, manufacture suggest 35kpi pressure but I put 40kpi due to weight in the front with little wave the front of the floor board would rise up a bit . (Aluminum floor except the bow area. I would highly suggest to bring a for pump as the water temperature drops it tend to lose the pressure therefore makes the boat not as stable. I live in Fl , took the boat out in the gulf of Mexico a few times , 2 ft or less no issues. With 2 people and a cooler , fishing poles, 3 gallon tank does about 23mph, bimini top makes a huge difference in the hot sun,but over all very happy , thinking about taking it down to the Fl keys where you would get varieties of species. Will try from Geiger key out 10 miles out to a wreck USS Kendrix .
I put the 440 Davis Doel-Fin Outboard/Outdrive Stabilizer on my honda 20 ( same boat though ) I found that it improves getting on plane and is more stable in choppy waters
I have the exact same BRIS 380. Running a 18HP Tohatsu 2 stroke and the boat goes really good. Had the same issue as you when it comes to weight and setup so I ended up putting it on a trailer to make life easy. I have had if for around 7 or 8 months with no issues so far. Got it mainly for fishing close inshore but as I live in Western Australia it is a bit intimidating due to the number of sharks around so mostly been using it in estuaries so far. So far so good and it’s holding up well.
How does it handle on large open/rough water? Would love to see some video. I am definitely in the market for a trailer. The UK, Australia, and NZ have all kind of options for inflatable craft trailers. Not a lot of options here in the States.
ivanh3 I have not had the courage to take it out in open rough water so far but I do believe it would handle it well. When it comes to the trailer I bought a secondhand one and customised it for the BRIS. Have seen a lot of people using JetSki trailers with a little bit of modification to it. Pretty sure there is a video somewhere on RUclips if you search for BRIS.
Hi Ivanh3, great video, thx for sharing. Zarak...., OMG! im looking at Bris 380 + Tohatsu 2 stroke as well. Can you tell me all about it. and is it worth getting. Hows the setup? hows is it holding up now? tell us all about it thx :) Do you have any videos on it at all. I Would LOVE to see some with it, as looking at getting exact same setup! or welcome to contact direct if easier. thx :) cheers
Ivan, Thanks for the great review. I already ordered a similar boat & motor for carrying along in our travel van. I had many of the same thoughts & concerns as you. I wanted a 12' boat too, but chose a much lighter boat with an air floor because of the "one-man setup" concerns. I bought a Mars (by Saturn) which is only 90 lbs. That was as much as I thought I could load & unload solo. I ordered a Tohatsu 20, which was a "coin toss" decision between it & the Suzuki. I knew the boat didn't really need a 20 Hp, but since the 9.9 Hp weighs the same I decided to splurge for the 20 Hp. There is a 9.8 Tohatsu that only weighs 81.5 lbs which would have probably been a "wiser" choice. Anyway, my motor is arriving this afternoon. I will try to remember to post here about whether my choice of the 90 lb Mars was a good one. I think that would be good info for folks that are trying to decide on a boat based on the weight. Also, I will report on the air floor decision too. I did read a caution that gasoline will attack PVC, so wanted to pass that warning along. Btw, I ordered a bimini top and also a "tent enclosure" from Alekoproducts.com. They were 30% off for Black Friday. Also, I wanted a blue bimini & Saturn only offers them in gray. Thanks again for the great review.
How is the 90lb boat? I'll be doing solo set ups too and was considering a 175lb 12.5' and also the 20hp because the 9.9 has no weight savings over it.
@@MaliciousSRT Not that weight is not important, but don't forget to consider how you entering and leaving the water. That is a big factor. Some of the ramps in my area are super steep.
@@ivanh3 Thanks, I am going to check how steep the ramp is by my cabin, I don't think its super steep but its narrow and goes from concrete to dirt up to where you park.
@@MaliciousSRT Sorry for the late reply, but didn't see your question until now. My boat has held up well. It's been stored for months in the van and has also been left out in the lake for a few months with no issues. I kept it parked under the dock to protect it from the sun. It's fun in protected waters, but a bit too short & maybe light in rough open water. I took it out on a long ride one day about 20-30 miles up the lake on a calm morning & it was great, but the return trip was into the wind and as I entered big water the waves were almost white-capped. I had to drop the bimini top because the wind was making it hard to steer straight, and had to slow down to about 5 mph because the chop bounced the little boat so much that the tiller handle & transom were bouncing so much. In smooth water, I can run 25 mph. In light chop, I'll drop it down a few mph. I carried 5 people in it once, but it wouldn't plane. It will plane with 3 people. It's comfortable with 2 people and still runs the same 25 mph as when I'm alone. I can manage the setup solo. But it's obviously much easier loading & unloading it from the van with a helper. I installed the small plastic transom wheels because they're more compact & will pack into the carry bag without removing them. But I'd recommend the larger inflatable wheels for gravel ramps. Btw, I lift the bow and tie it to the upper rear door catches on the van with a ratchet strap to pull the boat up steep boat ramps. I'm not strong enough to do it without a vehicle, and it works fine with the motor & fuel tank still on board.
@@glennr9913 Thanks for the very detailed reply. I bought an inflatable, 12' w/ a 20hp and found it WAY too much BS to store, lug around and set up / tear down. If anyone is looking into a boat this size and if you have the space, just get an aluminum on a trailer. No space? Find a storage lot to grab it from and leave it at. Inflatables may work in a season setting but all the work for each outing is just too much bs. It'll take up every inch of your SUV except the 2 front seats as well. Thankfully I was able to sell it all for what I paid for it.
awesome. the bris looks the best. it has a high transon so water doesnt come in. from the research ive done, its a nice a boat. make sure you flush the engine after every run. cover it. and take care of it and itll last forever
Great review. Pretty much covered everything I experienced and enjoyed about mine. Tad smaller boat and a tad smaller engine but you pretty much covered it!
I plan on picking up an inflatable this spring for the same reason. I converted a cargo trailer to a camper last year and I want something to take with us when we camp. I already picked up a motor.. I got a killer deal a few months ago that I couldn't pass up. I'm leaning to the TrueKit Navigator inflatable.
How would nylon straps work with the tailgate open? Hook one strap to each of the rings in the bed of the truck and then to the d-rings on the front of the boat. Good review. I’m in the process of buying a Saturn 13’ however with your review I’m going to check out the Bris. Not sure how the black boat would be in Florida with the hot sunny days. Thanks again for the review.
The key would be not to put all of the weight on one D ring. So if you can hook something up to each D ring and you are not doing anything other than backing the boat into the water using transom wheels, then you should be fine. However, I would not try to tow the boat in that fashion. For actual transport, I either used a trailer or deflated the boat and put it and the motor in the back of my pickup.
Hey. Good video. Thx. I also camp in a cargo trailer. I converted it over the winter last year. Works great for my daughter and I.. and my son is now 2 so I may take him on a camp trip this year. I've been researching inflatable boats for our camping trips. My daughter has a kayak.. and I usually borrow my father-in-law's kayak. I was gonna get one of my own, but I'm starting to think an inflatable boat and a small 4-6HP motor would be more fun.
Kayaks are great and you can't beat the exercise, but I wanted to get something to get out on some of the bigger Missouri lakes. Ended up getting a pull behind tube and my setup handles it no problem.
Okay, this is not a boat you can easily setup and tear-down at the water's edge, tossed into your vehicle in between. In total (boat, motor, fuel, cargo, etc), it can easily weigh 600 to 800 hundred pounds. More gear also means more setup and disassembly time. I ended up converting a cargo trailer into a boat trailer, using this boat just like a regular boat. Still has advantages over a rigid hull boat - more stability, lighter to transport, lower motor requirements, fuel economy, and so on. A small 5-10hp motor will move it through the water quite briskly.
@@dwightstewart7181 This rig is nowhere near 600 pounds. I can get all of it in/out of my pickup by myself. Having said that, it's definitely not a boat you just blow up and toss around.
@@ivanh3 .. Just between the boat and the motor, you're looking at close to 300lbs. Your fuel, cooler, fishing gear, life jackets, and similar will likely double that.
Great video... I also have a travel trailer and I just bought the inflatable boat 12.5 BRIS black one like you have. I was researching for months on this topic. That is now in route to the house. I am now shopping for the motor. I have been bouncing around with the idea whether go with the 12hp, 18hp, 20hp, or 25hp. The 12 and 18 are 2 stroke and the 20 and 25 are 4 stroke. The 4 stroke are about 850 to 1250 more. Haven't decided yet.... Any more feedback on it that would sway my decision?
Prefect video, I’ve watched a couple times now, as I’m very interested in getting one of these Bris boats. Now that it’s been a couple years do you still own it? And if so, how’s it been holding up? Thanks!
I ended up selling the boat because I am taking flying lessons and needed to liquidate some gear. It held up well and was in near perfect condition when I sold it.
Hi guys. I have a brand new Suzuki 20hp and I am using it on a much cheaper$600 inflatable with an air floor. Question is it doesn't go very well and the front plows through the water. I have tried the different pitches on the motor, but still the same. Thinking of buying this Bris to eliminate that problem. If so are there any problems or mods needed to get this one on plan and running 20mph plus? Thank you any recommendations
In this video I was using the chains to pull the boat out of the water and then off to the side where I would deflate it and put in the back of my pickup. Later I ended up buying a small trailer for a personal watercraft and modifying it to carry the boat fully inflated. That way the boat stayed inflated for the last 1-2 years I owned it.
Nice video. How's the boat after one year? I'm thinking if getting exactly the same setup for saltwater fishing trips. Would you recommend you motor? How's the fuel economy? Thanks!
Have not been out in awhile. Ironically, all of our local lakes are "flooded". The corp of engineers won't release the water due to downstream flooding. Problem is the boat docks are under water and closed. People are still going out, but I am afraid of debris and trees that are now under water. I periodically start the motor and it's a beast. The boat has held inflation for almost 7 months and counting.
I have the same size inflatable with the exact 20hp Suzuki and just purchased a travel trailer. Just wondering where and how you carry your motor when you go to camp. I suppose I can lay it down in the bed of my truck, but there must be a better way.
The motor can lay on it's side in my pickup bed and the boat folds up somewhat small. You can do all of this by yourself, but it's way better with help.
@@senseilawrence4599 Had for multiple years, throughout multiple seasons and have had no issues. Boat stays outside although I do keep the motor inside the garage.
Have you got a trailer yet? If you did, what kind of trailer did you use? Thinking about getting a Bris but will need a trailer cause they are so heavy.
Ivanh3, Great video. Ironically you made all the same purchases I'm planning. I would like to pull an inflatable and am considering going up to the 25hp to do that. Curious if you ended up pulling an inflatable, how did it go and what did you pull? Thanks.
"12.5 meter" inflatable boat that's like 41 feet or so! I have to get me one of those and see how it does in a slight breeze😂(I know it's 12.5 ft) but damn that would be something else to take on to a lake with anywhere from 1.5 mph to 6 mph winds, you'd be blown all over the place!!!
Hi I just wanted to drop-in an inquiry to the author of this video,how is the boat doing so far since you've had it for some time now? Anything that you could add any additional comments any issues or just simple do's and dont's? I'd appreciated.
We have had a longer/colder winter than normal and I have not taken it out in several months. I will say that I purchased and modified a used trailer, and now I leave it on the trailer with a cover on and inflated. The motor comes off and goes on a stand. It has lost minimal, if any air. It still seems very robust to me. We did pull an inner-tube the last couple of trips with two people in the boat and one on the tube. It did fine.
It mounts like any other small outboard motor. It's a heavy lift. I am about 5'10", 175 pounds and I can transfer it from the stand to boat, but it really should be a two person lift.
how do you transport the outboard? thinking of this same set up with no trailer. I have a truck but not sure how i will be transporting the engine every trip. HELP
If the boat is on the trailer, then I leave the motor on the boat. If am without the trailer (when we pull an RV/travel trailer) The motor lays on its side in the back of my pickup truck. The motor is designed to do this, but it does have to be a particular side.
I thought these boats were only rated for 15 horsepower that's what all reviews on the website about this boat have said well inflatable dinghy PVC whatever you want to call it I know the hypalon it's a better material
any updates? I’m looking at buying this set up but on the 15.4 Bris boat same engine. how do you transport your engine in your truck or trunk? do you lay it on it’s side?
Have not taken it out in awhile because of the flooded lakes we had in the Midwest. Many of the lakes managed by the Corp of Engineers have been closed. The boat still is holding air. No leaks, and I do keep the motor maintained. I carry the engine one of two ways. If am trailering the boat to a nearby lake, I leave it on the boat. I modified a small boat/personal watercraft trailer to use for local stuff. There is video on RUclips that shows you how. If we are going farther away with our camper, then I carry the motor in the back of my pickup truck on its side along with the deflated boat. It can be a pain this way because it’s an awkward lift (both motor and boat).
I am so glad I watched your video! Very well done, very informative. Answered almost all of my current questions re: the practical usage of an inflatable boat of this size. Just purchased a 10.8 ft inflatable dinghy and plan to get an electric trolling motor to power it. But, was thinking eventually of getting a gas powered outboard...I'll go smaller, however, than yours. I must say...your Suzuki is QUIET. Could hear you talking above the motor noise quite easily. Very impressed! Curious...have you tried launching and pulling out the boat by hand, without assistance by another person and/or truck? That is the reality of my situation...I want to be able to do everything myself, fairly easily, and without assistance. Worried about the steepness of many boat ramps...how realistic am I to think I could do this myself? My boat is lighter than yours I think...of course my motor is only 25 pounds or so...but, the battery to run it will be VERY heavy...50 pounds plus! Thoughts? Also, if you don't mind me asking...how much did you pay for your outboard? I'm eventually going to look for a 6 to maybe 10 HP outboard if I go that route. Thanks again for a TERRIFIC video. LOVE your boat/setup!!
Thanks for the compliment! I think loading these boats without help or a vehicle could be dangerous. The ramps can be steep. Falling is a possibility as is a back injury. Hospital bill could be more expensive than the boat! I paid around 2500 for the motor. I figured if I got tired of the inflatable, I could get jon boat or something to use it on. I ended modifying a small trailer for local use and it has worked out great. Used another youtube video as reference.
I just took it out today for the first time in almost 20 months. I will be making videos and updates again soon. We had some big rains last season and all of my boating lakes were closed.
I have had it for 2 months and its very poorly build. The boat is falling apart, from the pvc to the aluminum floor, the bars, the drain plug, you name it. Stay away, just cause looks good, does not mean it's good, I think these reviews are made when the boat is brand new, cause mine after 5-6 times of use not sure how much longer is going to last. Customer service is non existant, been trying to reach the company since they offer a 3 year warranty but no luck.
This boat has worked well for me for years. Even after a long stretch of sitting outside. Having said that, I don't think quality control is the same for many companies these days.
Its is nice to have the money 💵 to afford a boat, see I am a senior 🧓 and can't afford to purchase one because we don't have the money 💵 to afford it, if you have a extra one can you send it to me. Thanks you John E.May.
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UPDATE: (May 2022). I no longer own this boat. I took up aviation/flying lessons and had to liquidate some gear. The boat was a great boat and functioned as advertised. I do have a few thoughts in retrospect. The original plan was to have a boat that I could store in my pickup so we could have water access while towing a travel trailer. That ended up being harder than it sounds. This can be setup with one person, but it's a lot. I ended up leaving it setup on the trailer which made life much easier. The only real downside to this boat for me was operating it on choppy water. As an inflatable the hull didn't "cut" through the waves. It would ride on top which made for a very bumpy and sometimes uncomfortable ride. Given that I kept it setup, a standard boat or rigid hull boat may have been a better option. Having said that, the boat was awesome and fun. My family had a blast with it. It was a durable boat that is well made, and when I sold it and the motor they worked as they did when it was new.
UPDATE: I purchased this boat two years ago. Last season due to heavy rains and flooding of most lakes in my area, I was not able to take the boat out. In addition to that, I inherited my dad's Corvette which means the boat has not been garage kept for almost 20 months. It has been on a trailer in my back yard under a cover/tarp. The motor has been in the garage on a stand, and I have been starting the motor periodically with the prop in a tub of water, but I must admit, I hadn't started it in over six months. Well, today I took it out. There was minimal air loss. I probably could have taken it out without adding any air at all. The motor started on the second pull. It was awesome. So after sitting outside for many months from sub zero to ninety degrees plus, this boat held up.
I get a lot of question regarding how I transport the boat over the highway/roads. I found a small watercraft trailer and modified using this guy's video for guidance: ruclips.net/video/BzmDk3yP7fQ/видео.html
I had a Saturn boat for quite awhile before buying my 16 ft Legend/90 HP Mercury and I may go back to an inflatable once again. One thing though, those wheels are not rated for highway use, only for local pulling by hand. How do you deal with the highway hauling....
@@TOURMANBOB I modified a small watercraft trailer for actual road/highway transport. I followed the instructions in another video here on RUclips (added the link to the pinned comment). Those transom wheels are only good for slow short campground or launch area transport. Definitely not for the highway.
Great update. Thanks!
boats > planes
That's awesome! I got my pilots license at 18 after a looong time of training and whatnot, I have a kitfox S7 sti and have taken it pretty much everywhere I can here in az, I am 21 now and take my bris boat with me on my flights when I can afford to spare the weight and space to putt around some remote lakes and camp out where little to no people have called before!
I picked up a Saturn heavy-duty FB365 with aluminum floor. The boat is similar in size to this one in the review. I have watched and read many RUclips post where people use transom wheels. I almost ordered wheels when I bought my boat, but waited. This turned out to be a blessing.
For those of you who are ordering boats with aluminum floors, be aware of the extra weight and assembly time, which is considerable. After you put the floor in you need to pick the sides of the boat up and put something under the floor so you can attach the stringers. The stringer is a U-shaped piece of aluminum that keeps the floor from buckling. It's a real PITA to get in under the tubes, and I usually end up deflating the boat tubes a fair amount to get those in. Lifting the whole side of the boat up isn't fun either. It's heavy.
The other thing I wanted to mention is the front of the boat was way heavier than anticipated. The total weight of the boat is 175 pounds, and is not as though the front of the boat is 20lbs. I would think it's a good 60 or 70 pounds to pick up, and if you have a gas tank or marine battery, forget it. And remember if you're pulling the boat out of water and up a ramp you're increasing the resistance that much more. How's your back? How old are you?
I have two herniated disc myself and just shy of 60, so picking the boat up was not an option. Even with a good back, lifting 60+ pounds is work, and you will more than likely have to make several trips for your gas tank and battery. How much time do you want to spend loading your boat?
Bottom line is I would strongly consider an inflatable floor. Aluminum is nice, but it's damn heavy, and whole lot of work to install. If you leave your boat on the trailer most of the time and launch off the trailer, then fine, but otherwise it's hardly portable. I can't imagine setting up a 175 pound boat, and than lifting another hundred plus pound motor if you boat often. I think you would have to be mad or 20 years old with lots of energy and muscle!
And remember most of these motors are at least 100 pounds, even the 9.9's. I think you really need to ask yourself if you can manage that kind of weight. For me, using one of these boats as a "portable" was crazy. I set mine up once a year with the help of a hoist in my garage, and leave it on the trailer. I launch the boat from the trailer, and drive the boat up on the trailer to get out of the river. Just like a big stationary boat.
The great thing is at the end of the season my boat is not sitting out under the elements rotting. I bring it back in the garage and break it all down. The outboard goes on a stand, and the boat gets rolled up and put away after a good cleaning.
And remember to add some 303 sealant to the boat! UV and heat is murder on the PVC glues, not to mention high humidity. Make sure you have good ventilation. And be safe out there!
I have a Viamare 380 with Alufloor, and it's no hassle to install it.
Just inflate it 1/3 to 1/2 and install the floor, then inflate to 100% (it's mentioned in the user manual, and several other places on youtube)
Your boat might be different, but I can't see why it should be any different.
My comment was more about just the aluminum floor. The gist of it was really about portability and energy required to load and unload. I also tried to mention physical condition as I think that's a consideration too. Somebody in their 20s would probably not find getting the boat to the water that big of a deal versus somebody in their 50s or 60s. I would say the aluminum floor adds at least 20 minutes if not 30 to the set-up. And you do need to have a flat area to set-up and rock free. If are going to a trailer then that means getting the boat from the ground on to the trailer as well. The boat without anything in it is 175 pounds. I don't know about you but that's pretty darn heavy to me, and a PITA to move around--wheels or no wheels. The boat without the aluminum floor is in the 130 lb range, and that's a lot more manageable. An inflatable floor would be far easier, and faster to set up.
If you're talking about using the boat off the trailer all year round then I don't see the aluminum floor as that big of a deal as you're only setting up and breaking down twice a season. Otherwise, portable takes on a whole new meaning.
Thanks for the honest great review on the inflatable boat. I have always wanted one. And this is worthy of consideration. Best wishes from Australia. Thanks for sharing with us
I have a 3 year old 14 foot double thick very heavy boat 200lbs floor 100lbs --300 lbs total --got it for same reason you did and glad --holding up very nice no leaks no glue fails solid -- made trailer that disassembles for lauch but not street travel --good vid thanks will try to post a vid 👍
I have this boat with 2006 mercury 25hp 2 stroke. Absolutely great boat, except could have maybe more durable underneath. Has held up well over last 2 years. With 25hp and 2 people and 45lt fuel plus gear it flys!
Hi, I have Seamax 380 ocean , 12.5ft very similar to BRIS got it from a guy about 5 months ago, he purchased it brand new from online 2017 , also brand new Honda BF20 , so far no issues, got the trailer a week after I purchased the boat. Only thing I didn't like about the boat is the keel, manufacture suggest 35kpi pressure but I put 40kpi due to weight in the front with little wave the front of the floor board would rise up a bit . (Aluminum floor except the bow area. I would highly suggest to bring a for pump as the water temperature drops it tend to lose the pressure therefore makes the boat not as stable. I live in Fl , took the boat out in the gulf of Mexico a few times , 2 ft or less no issues. With 2 people and a cooler , fishing poles, 3 gallon tank does about 23mph, bimini top makes a huge difference in the hot sun,but over all very happy , thinking about taking it down to the Fl keys where you would get varieties of species. Will try from Geiger key out 10 miles out to a wreck USS Kendrix .
I think the top would be cool to add to mine. I am from the Gulf Coast originally . Would love to take thing out on that water.
I put the 440 Davis Doel-Fin Outboard/Outdrive Stabilizer on my honda 20 ( same boat though ) I found that it improves getting on plane and is more stable in choppy waters
Yep, travel trailer and 320 Stryker dinghy and 20hp Suzuki on it. Great for everything. 95 lbs motor, and boat is 120 lbs.
I have the exact same BRIS 380. Running a 18HP Tohatsu 2 stroke and the boat goes really good. Had the same issue as you when it comes to weight and setup so I ended up putting it on a trailer to make life easy. I have had if for around 7 or 8 months with no issues so far. Got it mainly for fishing close inshore but as I live in Western Australia it is a bit intimidating due to the number of sharks around so mostly been using it in estuaries so far. So far so good and it’s holding up well.
How does it handle on large open/rough water? Would love to see some video. I am definitely in the market for a trailer. The UK, Australia, and NZ have all kind of options for inflatable craft trailers. Not a lot of options here in the States.
ivanh3 I have not had the courage to take it out in open rough water so far but I do believe it would handle it well. When it comes to the trailer I bought a secondhand one and customised it for the BRIS. Have seen a lot of people using JetSki trailers with a little bit of modification to it. Pretty sure there is a video somewhere on RUclips if you search for BRIS.
Hi Ivanh3, great video, thx for sharing.
Zarak...., OMG! im looking at Bris 380 + Tohatsu 2 stroke as well. Can you tell me all about it. and is it worth getting. Hows the setup? hows is it holding up now? tell us all about it thx :)
Do you have any videos on it at all. I Would LOVE to see some with it, as looking at getting exact same setup! or welcome to contact direct if easier. thx :) cheers
Ivan, Thanks for the great review. I already ordered a similar boat & motor for carrying along in our travel van. I had many of the same thoughts & concerns as you. I wanted a 12' boat too, but chose a much lighter boat with an air floor because of the "one-man setup" concerns. I bought a Mars (by Saturn) which is only 90 lbs. That was as much as I thought I could load & unload solo. I ordered a Tohatsu 20, which was a "coin toss" decision between it & the Suzuki. I knew the boat didn't really need a 20 Hp, but since the 9.9 Hp weighs the same I decided to splurge for the 20 Hp. There is a 9.8 Tohatsu that only weighs 81.5 lbs which would have probably been a "wiser" choice. Anyway, my motor is arriving this afternoon.
I will try to remember to post here about whether my choice of the 90 lb Mars was a good one. I think that would be good info for folks that are trying to decide on a boat based on the weight. Also, I will report on the air floor decision too.
I did read a caution that gasoline will attack PVC, so wanted to pass that warning along.
Btw, I ordered a bimini top and also a "tent enclosure" from Alekoproducts.com. They were 30% off for Black Friday. Also, I wanted a blue bimini & Saturn only offers them in gray.
Thanks again for the great review.
How is the 90lb boat? I'll be doing solo set ups too and was considering a 175lb 12.5' and also the 20hp because the 9.9 has no weight savings over it.
@@MaliciousSRT Not that weight is not important, but don't forget to consider how you entering and leaving the water. That is a big factor. Some of the ramps in my area are super steep.
@@ivanh3 Thanks, I am going to check how steep the ramp is by my cabin, I don't think its super steep but its narrow and goes from concrete to dirt up to where you park.
@@MaliciousSRT Sorry for the late reply, but didn't see your question until now.
My boat has held up well. It's been stored for months in the van and has also been left out in the lake for a few months with no issues. I kept it parked under the dock to protect it from the sun.
It's fun in protected waters, but a bit too short & maybe light in rough open water. I took it out on a long ride one day about 20-30 miles up the lake on a calm morning & it was great, but the return trip was into the wind and as I entered big water the waves were almost white-capped. I had to drop the bimini top because the wind was making it hard to steer straight, and had to slow down to about 5 mph because the chop bounced the little boat so much that the tiller handle & transom were bouncing so much. In smooth water, I can run 25 mph. In light chop, I'll drop it down a few mph.
I carried 5 people in it once, but it wouldn't plane. It will plane with 3 people. It's comfortable with 2 people and still runs the same 25 mph as when I'm alone.
I can manage the setup solo. But it's obviously much easier loading & unloading it from the van with a helper.
I installed the small plastic transom wheels because they're more compact & will pack into the carry bag without removing them. But I'd recommend the larger inflatable wheels for gravel ramps.
Btw, I lift the bow and tie it to the upper rear door catches on the van with a ratchet strap to pull the boat up steep boat ramps. I'm not strong enough to do it without a vehicle, and it works fine with the motor & fuel tank still on board.
@@glennr9913 Thanks for the very detailed reply. I bought an inflatable, 12' w/ a 20hp and found it WAY too much BS to store, lug around and set up / tear down. If anyone is looking into a boat this size and if you have the space, just get an aluminum on a trailer. No space? Find a storage lot to grab it from and leave it at. Inflatables may work in a season setting but all the work for each outing is just too much bs. It'll take up every inch of your SUV except the 2 front seats as well. Thankfully I was able to sell it all for what I paid for it.
You are cool independent among guys who been secretly bought by companies.
awesome. the bris looks the best. it has a high transon so water doesnt come in. from the research ive done, its a nice a boat. make sure you flush the engine after every run. cover it. and take care of it and itll last forever
Great review. Pretty much covered everything I experienced and enjoyed about mine. Tad smaller boat and a tad smaller engine but you pretty much covered it!
I plan on picking up an inflatable this spring for the same reason. I converted a cargo trailer to a camper last year and I want something to take with us when we camp. I already picked up a motor.. I got a killer deal a few months ago that I couldn't pass up. I'm leaning to the TrueKit Navigator inflatable.
Sharp looking rig, thanks for the info.
How would nylon straps work with the tailgate open? Hook one strap to each of the rings in the bed of the truck and then to the d-rings on the front of the boat.
Good review. I’m in the process of buying a Saturn 13’ however with your review I’m going to check out the Bris. Not sure how the black boat would be in Florida with the hot sunny days. Thanks again for the review.
The key would be not to put all of the weight on one D ring. So if you can hook something up to each D ring and you are not doing anything other than backing the boat into the water using transom wheels, then you should be fine. However, I would not try to tow the boat in that fashion. For actual transport, I either used a trailer or deflated the boat and put it and the motor in the back of my pickup.
Hey. Good video. Thx. I also camp in a cargo trailer. I converted it over the winter last year. Works great for my daughter and I.. and my son is now 2 so I may take him on a camp trip this year. I've been researching inflatable boats for our camping trips. My daughter has a kayak.. and I usually borrow my father-in-law's kayak. I was gonna get one of my own, but I'm starting to think an inflatable boat and a small 4-6HP motor would be more fun.
Kayaks are great and you can't beat the exercise, but I wanted to get something to get out on some of the bigger Missouri lakes. Ended up getting a pull behind tube and my setup handles it no problem.
Okay, this is not a boat you can easily setup and tear-down at the water's edge, tossed into your vehicle in between. In total (boat, motor, fuel, cargo, etc), it can easily weigh 600 to 800 hundred pounds. More gear also means more setup and disassembly time. I ended up converting a cargo trailer into a boat trailer, using this boat just like a regular boat. Still has advantages over a rigid hull boat - more stability, lighter to transport, lower motor requirements, fuel economy, and so on. A small 5-10hp motor will move it through the water quite briskly.
@@dwightstewart7181 This rig is nowhere near 600 pounds. I can get all of it in/out of my pickup by myself. Having said that, it's definitely not a boat you just blow up and toss around.
@@ivanh3 .. Just between the boat and the motor, you're looking at close to 300lbs. Your fuel, cooler, fishing gear, life jackets, and similar will likely double that.
Great video... I also have a travel trailer and I just bought the inflatable boat 12.5 BRIS black one like you have. I was researching for months on this topic. That is now in route to the house. I am now shopping for the motor. I have been bouncing around with the idea whether go with the 12hp, 18hp, 20hp, or 25hp. The 12 and 18 are 2 stroke and the 20 and 25 are 4 stroke. The 4 stroke are about 850 to 1250 more. Haven't decided yet.... Any more feedback on it that would sway my decision?
Prefect video, I’ve watched a couple times now, as I’m very interested in getting one of these Bris boats. Now that it’s been a couple years do you still own it? And if so, how’s it been holding up? Thanks!
I ended up selling the boat because I am taking flying lessons and needed to liquidate some gear. It held up well and was in near perfect condition when I sold it.
@@ivanh3 so you had it for a year or so then?
Defender launch wheels are the way to go. Super easy
Hi guys. I have a brand new Suzuki 20hp and I am using it on a much cheaper$600 inflatable with an air floor. Question is it doesn't go very well and the front plows through the water. I have tried the different pitches on the motor, but still the same. Thinking of buying this Bris to eliminate that problem. If so are there any problems or mods needed to get this one on plan and running 20mph plus? Thank you any recommendations
Do you pull the boat on top of your truck? Or was the chain just to pull it out of the water? Very good video and description by the way.
In this video I was using the chains to pull the boat out of the water and then off to the side where I would deflate it and put in the back of my pickup. Later I ended up buying a small trailer for a personal watercraft and modifying it to carry the boat fully inflated. That way the boat stayed inflated for the last 1-2 years I owned it.
Nice video. How's the boat after one year? I'm thinking if getting exactly the same setup for saltwater fishing trips. Would you recommend you motor? How's the fuel economy? Thanks!
Have not been out in awhile. Ironically, all of our local lakes are "flooded". The corp of engineers won't release the water due to downstream flooding. Problem is the boat docks are under water and closed. People are still going out, but I am afraid of debris and trees that are now under water. I periodically start the motor and it's a beast. The boat has held inflation for almost 7 months and counting.
I have the same size inflatable with the exact 20hp Suzuki and just purchased a travel trailer. Just wondering where and how you carry your motor when you go to camp. I suppose I can lay it down in the bed of my truck, but there must be a better way.
I have had it for 2 months and it's falling apart, looks good at the beggining, that shiny black and all that, but thats it, poor build quality
The motor can lay on it's side in my pickup bed and the boat folds up somewhat small. You can do all of this by yourself, but it's way better with help.
@@senseilawrence4599 Had for multiple years, throughout multiple seasons and have had no issues. Boat stays outside although I do keep the motor inside the garage.
Have you got a trailer yet? If you did, what kind of trailer did you use? Thinking about getting a Bris but will need a trailer cause they are so heavy.
Modified a small watercraft trailer. There is a RUclips video that I followed for the instructions.
Ivanh3, Great video. Ironically you made all the same purchases I'm planning. I would like to pull an inflatable and am considering going up to the 25hp to do that. Curious if you ended up pulling an inflatable, how did it go and what did you pull? Thanks.
I have a post labeled "Update" and I discuss that. Let me know if that answers your question. Thanks!
"12.5 meter" inflatable boat that's like 41 feet or so! I have to get me one of those and see how it does in a slight breeze😂(I know it's 12.5 ft) but damn that would be something else to take on to a lake with anywhere from 1.5 mph to 6 mph winds, you'd be blown all over the place!!!
You got your boat out of the trunk in your car where was the motor at your back seat
Used my truck. Never my car.
Hi I just wanted to drop-in an inquiry to the author of this video,how is the boat doing so far since you've had it for some time now? Anything that you could add any additional comments any issues or just simple do's and dont's? I'd appreciated.
We have had a longer/colder winter than normal and I have not taken it out in several months. I will say that I purchased and modified a used trailer, and now I leave it on the trailer with a cover on and inflated. The motor comes off and goes on a stand. It has lost minimal, if any air. It still seems very robust to me. We did pull an inner-tube the last couple of trips with two people in the boat and one on the tube. It did fine.
I wonder if in two summers, that boat still holds air. It seems inflatable dont look at long
It has held air very well. For multiple summers AND winters!
How do suggest mounting motor...they are heavy and awkwardly shaped.
It mounts like any other small outboard motor. It's a heavy lift. I am about 5'10", 175 pounds and I can transfer it from the stand to boat, but it really should be a two person lift.
@@ivanh3 yes...ill ask for help next time...suzukis are great reliable motors...i have a 2004 Johnson that was made by Suzuki.
Bet the sun heats that up nice
how do you transport the outboard? thinking of this same set up with no trailer. I have a truck but not sure how i will be transporting the engine every trip. HELP
If the boat is on the trailer, then I leave the motor on the boat. If am without the trailer (when we pull an RV/travel trailer) The motor lays on its side in the back of my pickup truck.
The motor is designed to do this, but it does have to be a particular side.
ivanh3 thank you this helps alot!
Also i am running a 1969 mercury 20hp short heavy to but strong --rated for up to 35hp way too much motor 😵
I thought these boats were only rated for 15 horsepower that's what all reviews on the website about this boat have said well inflatable dinghy PVC whatever you want to call it I know the hypalon it's a better material
any updates? I’m looking at buying this set up but on the 15.4 Bris boat same engine. how do you transport your engine in your truck or trunk? do you lay it on it’s side?
Have not taken it out in awhile because of the flooded lakes we had in the Midwest. Many of the lakes managed by the Corp of Engineers have been closed. The boat still is holding air. No leaks, and I do keep the motor maintained. I carry the engine one of two ways. If am trailering the boat to a nearby lake, I leave it on the boat. I modified a small boat/personal watercraft trailer to use for local stuff. There is video on RUclips that shows you how. If we are going farther away with our camper, then I carry the motor in the back of my pickup truck on its side along with the deflated boat. It can be a pain this way because it’s an awkward lift (both motor and boat).
I am so glad I watched your video! Very well done, very informative. Answered almost all of my current questions re: the practical usage of an inflatable boat of this size. Just purchased a 10.8 ft inflatable dinghy and plan to get an electric trolling motor to power it. But, was thinking eventually of getting a gas powered outboard...I'll go smaller, however, than yours. I must say...your Suzuki is QUIET. Could hear you talking above the motor noise quite easily. Very impressed! Curious...have you tried launching and pulling out the boat by hand, without assistance by another person and/or truck? That is the reality of my situation...I want to be able to do everything myself, fairly easily, and without assistance. Worried about the steepness of many boat ramps...how realistic am I to think I could do this myself? My boat is lighter than yours I think...of course my motor is only 25 pounds or so...but, the battery to run it will be VERY heavy...50 pounds plus! Thoughts? Also, if you don't mind me asking...how much did you pay for your outboard? I'm eventually going to look for a 6 to maybe 10 HP outboard if I go that route. Thanks again for a TERRIFIC video. LOVE your boat/setup!!
Thanks for the compliment! I think loading these boats without help or a vehicle could be dangerous. The ramps can be steep. Falling is a possibility as is a back injury. Hospital bill could be more expensive than the boat! I paid around 2500 for the motor. I figured if I got tired of the inflatable, I could get jon boat or something to use it on. I ended modifying a small trailer for local use and it has worked out great. Used another youtube video as reference.
ruclips.net/video/BzmDk3yP7fQ/видео.html
If you want a light motor the old mercury 2 stroke 9.9's are only 50lbs (new 4 strokes are 95lbs)
Did you make another video an update video?
I just took it out today for the first time in almost 20 months. I will be making videos and updates again soon. We had some big rains last season and all of my boating lakes were closed.
Besides the registration, do you need insurance as well?
I only had to register. Was not required to insure. Do have to pay yearly taxes which are only about 12 dollars.
@@ivanh3 Thanks a lot for all the information. 🙏🙏🙏
So it's been 2 yrs. How has the boat held up?
Held up very well. Still going strong! No leaks. Motor is great!
I have had it for 2 months and its very poorly build. The boat is falling apart, from the pvc to the aluminum floor, the bars, the drain plug, you name it. Stay away, just cause looks good, does not mean it's good, I think these reviews are made when the boat is brand new, cause mine after 5-6 times of use not sure how much longer is going to last. Customer service is non existant, been trying to reach the company since they offer a 3 year warranty but no luck.
This boat has worked well for me for years. Even after a long stretch of sitting outside. Having said that, I don't think quality control is the same for many companies these days.
Its is nice to have the money 💵 to afford a boat, see I am a senior 🧓 and can't afford to purchase one because we don't have the money 💵 to afford it, if you have a extra one can you send it to me. Thanks you John E.May.
19 MPH???? I did 17 MPH on my 6 hp Tohatsu with CB330 11ft Saturn, with full fishing gear. Heavy boat means lower speeds. Not impressed.
Who or what country made this boat?
China, I think.
Not sure I think it's made in China
Mine leaks like crazy
What size motor you recommend
I went with 20 HP. It gets up on a plane pretty quickly and with four people on board it still moves out.
Hi. Got the same boat based on your review. Is your motor a short or long shaft? thanks
Does the black boat feel hot?
Not really. I am sure it's warmer than a lighter color boat, but it has not been a problem.
Still liking your setup? Any issues?
I actually sold my setup some months ago and invested the money in flying lessons!
Over, and out!
..you realize that makes no sense?...over=invite to transmit, out=end transmission...one or the other bud...
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