Hi Kevin,
I purchased a 14' inflatable from Affordable its a 20" tube construction. I use the boat primarily as a dive boat, and recently was asked if I would make this craft available to a water rescue unit.
The boat handles well with a variety of motors. I have a 25hp Yamaha 2 stroke that I normally use on the craft and for narrow rivers with shallows I use a 3.3 Mercury . I have used as well a 30lb thrust electric motor. As to size and space the craft offers me the ability to carry dive gear for four divers and a Hookah Surface Support unit and its gear. I use a depth finder on the craft as well.Its stable and reliable handles extremely well planes very nicely under water. My normal runs with this craft are about five miles upstream on the Mattaponi River, and she has performed extremely well on the Yecomico River as well which is tidal, she handles wakes and waves well.
To extend the life of the boat I use a UV protection. Runs well in shallow and deep water and to date the boat has served some purpose it was not designed for but not in violation of the manufactures warranty. In Particular I towed a 22' Sailboat from the River in which had became disabled. I used a simple yoke across the boat and towed her at minimum speed as to reduce the strain across the boat.
For diving thei craft presents and excellent profile and you can use a simple rope ladder to gain re-entry into the craft. The hard panel floor is very sturdy and rigid and the inflatable keel works well to insure proper plane underway. As a means of transport to dive sites on my survey I feel that even though rated for a 40 hp motor this craft is excellent when operated at a mid range power rating of say 25 hp. Response is consistent, coherent and complete. I am not diappointed in my investment so far in this craft and have had her for about 6 months she is used atleast twice a week.
Hope that fills in your information void, if you have any further questions please feel free to email me.
Lee Chamberlain