Guides

Used inflatable boat before viewing: identity, chambers and documents

Before travelling to view a used inflatable boat — for example a Zodiac Cadet 310 Aero — establish the exact model, craft identification number, builder's-plate data, floor and engine configuration, and how the unit holds the correct pressure. Records and tests reduce unknowns but do not establish ownership, airtightness, technical condition or transaction safety.

Message to the seller — copy and complete

Hello, before arranging a viewing, please send photographs of the whole boat, the builder's plate and CIN, valves, transom, underside and both faces of the floor, plus every repair and patch. Please state the exact model and version, year or document edition, the manual applicable to the unit, included equipment, and the engine identity and weight. Can the boat be inflated according to that manual, measured with a gauge after temperature stabilises, and measured again before the viewing? Please state the temperature, readings for each chamber specified in the manual — including keel and floor where inflatable — and the interval. Please describe earlier repairs, storage and reason for sale. Photos, documents and readings do not replace inspection or independent assessment.

Sources: [1], [2]

Identity and limits: what to obtain and why

The plate and CIN tie the enquiry to one unit. The manufacturer's manual explains that the plate can state persons, total maximum load, engine mass and power limits, and pressures. Required documents and equipment still depend on the country of use.

Request	Purpose	It does not prove
Full plate and CIN photographs	Match model, numbers and limits with the applicable manual	Ownership, absence of finance or authenticity
Applicable manual (both volumes for Zodiac) and sale record	Identify edition, procedures and continuity of records	Technical condition or compliance in every country
Engine identity and mass	Check separate power, weight and shaft-length limits	Correct installation or engine condition
Sale inventory	Confirm oars, pump, gauge, thwart, bag and repair kit	Completeness for every offer or model year

Sources: [1], [2]

Photos and pressure readings: compare like with like

The Cadet manual separates tube and keel pressure from the higher Aero-floor pressure and warns that temperature changes readings. Ask for gauge values, temperature, time and measurement point. A fall without those details cannot distinguish temperature change, an unsecured valve and leakage.

Evidence	What must be visible	Why
Tubes, seams and cones	Both sides, underside, valve areas and every patch	Locate areas for in-person inspection
Transom	Tube joints, engine plate, edges and fastenings	Identify where loaded inspection is needed
Aero floor and keel	Top, underside, valves and joints	Confirm the version and separate pressure circuits
Two readings	Gauge, temperature and time for both readings	Compare measurements made in described conditions

Sources: [1]

Decision: travel, pause or ask a specialist

Outcome	Practical condition	Next step
Travel	Numbers and version are legible; full photos and repair description received	Inspect inflated, match documents and conduct an agreed test
Pause	No CIN/plate, selective photos or data from different versions	Request missing evidence; do not pay merely to reserve a viewing
Specialist	Structural repairs, transom concern, repeat pressure loss or mismatched engine	Define inspection scope and obtain a written report before a financial decision

Sources: [1], [2]

Equipment in this guide

Zodiac Cadet 310 Aero 2026 brochure, C310 Aero with Aerotec inflatable floor

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