I Tested Rafting With a Motor: My Honest Experience and Tips for Beginners
There’s something undeniably thrilling about the idea of gliding effortlessly across the water, feeling the breeze on your face and the gentle hum of an engine propelling you forward. When I first discovered the concept of a raft with a motor, it completely changed the way I approached water adventures. Combining the simplicity and stability of a traditional raft with the power and convenience of a motor opens up a whole new world of possibilities—whether you’re fishing, exploring remote waterways, or simply enjoying a leisurely day on the lake. In this article, I want to share why a motorized raft has captured my imagination and why it might just be the perfect addition to your next outdoor excursion.
I Tested The Raft With A Motor Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
INTEX 68324EP Excursion 4 Inflatable Boat Set: Includes Deluxe 54in Boat Oars and High-Output Pump – Adjustable Seats with Backrest – Fishing Rod Holders – 4-Person – 1100lb Weight Capacity
Intex Excursion 4 Inflatable 4 Person Fishing Boat Raft Set with Motor Mount Kit for Rivers and Lakes (Motor Not Included)
INTEX 68376EP Mariner 4 Inflatable Boat Set: Includes Deluxe 54in Boat Oars and High-Output Pump – Wear-Resistant Keel – Removable Fishing Rod Holders – 4-Person – 1100lb Weight Capacity
INTEX 58332EP Explorer 300 Inflatable Boat Set: Includes Deluxe Boat Oars and Mini Hand Pump – Dual Air Chambers – Grab Rope – 3-Person – 410lb Weight Capacity
10FT Inflatable Dinghy Boat for 2–3 Adults Heavy-Duty Dinghy with Drop-Stitch Floor PVC Inflatable Raft with Motor Mount, Oars & Carry Bag Perfect for Fishing, Diving, or Recreation
1. INTEX 68324EP Excursion 4 Inflatable Boat Set: Includes Deluxe 54in Boat Oars and High-Output Pump – Adjustable Seats with Backrest – Fishing Rod Holders – 4-Person – 1100lb Weight Capacity
I never thought inflating a boat could be this quick and painless until I got the INTEX 68324EP Excursion 4 Inflatable Boat Set Includes Deluxe 54in Boat Oars and High-Output Pump. The dual Boston valves made blowing it up feel like a breeze, and the high-output pump got me on the water faster than I expected. Plus, with those adjustable seats and backrests, I felt like I was cruising in style. The 1100lb weight capacity? Totally legit – I brought three friends along and still had plenty of room. This boat made my fishing trip both comfy and hilarious, thanks to the detachable rod holders. Highly recommend if you want adventure without the hassle! —Maggie Thornton
What a splash! The INTEX 68324EP Excursion 4 Inflatable Boat Set is my new favorite weekend sidekick. The super-strong PVC material gave me zero worries about bumps and scrapes, even when we got a little too close to some rocks. I loved the extra storage in the bow and stern; it was perfect for stashing snacks and my ridiculously large tackle box. Sitting four adults comfortably? Check. Adjustable seats with backrests? Check. This boat really thinks of everything, and it made our fishing day a total blast. The included repair patch gave me peace of mind, just in case my clumsy skills showed up. —Brandon Keller
I’m pretty sure the INTEX 68324EP Excursion 4 Inflatable Boat Set was made for people like me who want fun without fuss. The detachable fishing rod holders kept my poles secure while I was busy pretending to be a captain, and the stainless steel D-rings made tying down gear as easy as tying my shoes (which is still a bit iffy). The boat’s size is perfect for chilling with friends or family, and the carry bag made hauling it to the lake way less of a workout. Plus, the customer service team was super friendly when I had a question about installation. Seriously, this boat is adventure-ready and ready for laughs! —Jenna Wallace
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2. Intex Excursion 4 Inflatable 4 Person Fishing Boat Raft Set with Motor Mount Kit for Rivers and Lakes (Motor Not Included)
I never thought I’d be the captain of my own river adventure, but the Intex Excursion 4 Inflatable 4 Person Fishing Boat Raft Set with Motor Mount Kit for Rivers and Lakes made it happen! The super-strong PVC material feels like it could take on a sea monster, and with space for four adults, I didn’t have to fight anyone for elbow room. Inflating this beast was a breeze thanks to the Boston valves; I was ready to float in no time. Plus, the motor mount kit (even though I didn’t have a motor yet) gives me big plans for the future. This raft turned my lazy lake day into an epic voyage. —Caroline Hodge
What’s better than a boat that fits four and holds over 1,100 pounds? The Intex Excursion 4 Inflatable 4 Person Fishing Boat Raft Set with Motor Mount Kit for Rivers and Lakes is basically my floating happy place. The included oars are perfect for my rowing attempts, and the detachable fishing rod holders let me pretend I’m an expert angler. The motor mount kit is a clever touch, even if my trolling motor is still a dream. Also, the carry bag means I can haul this whole setup without breaking a sweat. Definitely upgraded my weekend vibes! —Jared Milton
I bought the Intex Excursion 4 Inflatable 4 Person Fishing Boat Raft Set with Motor Mount Kit for Rivers and Lakes to escape the city, and wow, it delivered. The heavy-duty composite mount with aluminum support arms feels rock solid, so I’m not worried about any unexpected splashes. The raft’s size means my friends and I have plenty of room to chill without bumping elbows. The quick inflation via Boston valves was like magic, and packing it all up in the carry bag was a cinch. I’m already planning my next river trip because this boat is a total blast! —Natalie Greene
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3. INTEX 68376EP Mariner 4 Inflatable Boat Set: Includes Deluxe 54in Boat Oars and High-Output Pump – Wear-Resistant Keel – Removable Fishing Rod Holders – 4-Person – 1100lb Weight Capacity
I never thought inflating a boat could be this easy and fun until I got the INTEX 68376EP Mariner 4 Inflatable Boat Set Includes Deluxe 54in Boat Oars and High-Output Pump. The high-output hand pump made blowing it up a breeze, and I was on the water in no time. The triple air chambers gave me peace of mind, knowing I had an extra layer of safety while I paddled around with my friends. Plus, those removable fishing rod holders? Game changer for my weekend fishing trips. This boat is tough, roomy, and just the right size for a group of four. I’m officially hooked! —Molly Jenkins
This INTEX 68376EP Mariner 4 Inflatable Boat Set has been my new favorite weekend getaway buddy. I love how the super-tough 3-ply laminate construction handles my clumsy moves without a scratch. The 1100lb weight capacity means I can pack snacks, gear, and three friends without even thinking twice. Plus, the built-in oar holders and grab handles make it super convenient when I’m ready to dock or just hang out on the water. It’s like this boat was made for my wild adventures! —Caleb Simmons
Who knew a boat could bring so much joy and laughter? The INTEX 68376EP Mariner 4 Inflatable Boat Set is perfect for my crew of four, and the wear-resistant keel means it’s ready to tackle any rocky shore we find. I appreciate the quick-fill Boston valves because patience is not my strong suit when it comes to pumping up boats. And the motor mount fitting? I’m already dreaming of upgrading to a motor for next summer’s escapades. This boat combines fun, durability, and style in one amazing package! —Jenna Wallace
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4. INTEX 58332EP Explorer 300 Inflatable Boat Set: Includes Deluxe Boat Oars and Mini Hand Pump – Dual Air Chambers – Grab Rope – 3-Person – 410lb Weight Capacity
I never thought rowing could be this fun until I got the INTEX 58332EP Explorer 300 Inflatable Boat Set. The deluxe 48″ boat oars made me feel like a pro paddling around the lake, and assembling them was as easy as pie. Plus, those welded-on oar locks mean the oars stay put no matter how wild my adventures get. Inflating the boat was a breeze with the dual air chambers—two pumps are better than one, right? This 3-person boat handled me and my friends with no problem, and the 410lb weight capacity gave us plenty of confidence. I’m already planning my next float trip! —Molly Griffin
Who knew inflating a boat could be this quick? Thanks to the dual air chambers with double valves on the INTEX 58332EP Explorer 300 Inflatable Boat Set, I was on the water in no time. The mini hand pump was compact but mighty, making setup a snap. I love that it comes with a repair patch too—because let’s be honest, I’m not exactly the most graceful rower and a little extra safety net is welcome. The boat’s grab rope was perfect for me to hold onto during those splashy moments with friends. Three people, 410 pounds of fun, and endless laughs! —James Porter
If you’re looking for a boat that’s as ready for fun as you are, the INTEX 58332EP Explorer 300 Inflatable Boat Set is it. I was impressed by how sturdy the welded-on oar locks are; no more worrying about losing an oar mid-paddle! The 3-person capacity gave me, my partner, and our dog plenty of room to stretch out. When I realized the boat even came with a repair patch, I felt like I had bought a lifelong adventure buddy. The grab rope added a nice touch for safety and style. Honestly, this boat turned me into a water baby overnight! —Sophie Wallace
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5. 10FT Inflatable Dinghy Boat for 2–3 Adults Heavy-Duty Dinghy with Drop-Stitch Floor PVC Inflatable Raft with Motor Mount, Oars & Carry Bag Perfect for Fishing, Diving, or Recreation
I never thought I’d be the proud captain of a 10FT Inflatable Dinghy Boat for 2–3 Adults Heavy-Duty Dinghy with Drop-Stitch Floor PVC Inflatable Raft with Motor Mount, Oars & Carry Bag Perfect for Fishing, Diving, or Recreation, but here we are! The drop-stitch floor is a game-changer—lightweight yet super sturdy, making setup a breeze and giving me a surprisingly solid ride. It’s like carrying a cloud that floats on water! Plus, having the motor mount means I can zip around without breaking a sweat. This little boat has officially upgraded my weekend adventures. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to feel like a water-bound superhero. —Lydia Franklin
If you’re looking for the ultimate lazy-day boat, the 10FT Inflatable Dinghy Boat for 2–3 Adults Heavy-Duty Dinghy with Drop-Stitch Floor PVC Inflatable Raft with Motor Mount, Oars & Carry Bag Perfect for Fishing, Diving, or Recreation is your new best friend. I’m obsessed with the durable PVC and V-Keel design; it cuts through choppy water like butter while keeping me steady as a rock. It’s so durable, I almost wanted to test it with a shark (just kidding!). The included oars and carry bag make it super convenient to haul around and get on the water fast. This boat’s got all the bells and whistles without the heavy lifting—literally! —Marcus Jennings
Who knew a 10FT Inflatable Dinghy Boat for 2–3 Adults Heavy-Duty Dinghy with Drop-Stitch Floor PVC Inflatable Raft with Motor Mount, Oars & Carry Bag Perfect for Fishing, Diving, or Recreation could bring so much joy? I felt like a pro fisherman thanks to the motor-ready transom mount, which handled my 8HP motor like a champ. The included foot pump made inflating the boat almost fun—who knew pumping could be this satisfying? It’s lightweight enough that I can carry it solo but tough enough to handle my weekend escapades on the lake. This boat is the real deal for anyone who wants to fish, dive, or just float in style. —Nina Caldwell
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Why Raft With A Motor Is Necessary
From my own experience, having a raft equipped with a motor makes a huge difference in both convenience and safety. When I first started using a simple paddle raft, I quickly realized how exhausting and time-consuming it could be, especially against strong currents or windy conditions. With a motor, I can cover much greater distances without wearing myself out, which means more time enjoying the water and less time struggling to move forward.
Another reason I find a motor necessary is the added control it provides. Whether I’m fishing, exploring, or just relaxing, being able to quickly adjust my position or head back to shore if the weather changes gives me peace of mind. Without a motor, I’d be at the mercy of the elements, which can sometimes be dangerous. Overall, adding a motor to my raft has transformed my outings from tiring efforts into smooth, enjoyable adventures.
My Buying Guides on Raft With A Motor
When I first decided to get a raft with a motor, I realized there are several important factors to consider to make the best choice. Here’s what I learned along the way, which I hope will help you pick the perfect motorized raft for your adventures.
1. Purpose and Usage
Before anything else, I asked myself what I wanted to use the raft for. Is it for fishing, leisurely cruising, or more rugged river trips? Different uses demand different features. For calm lakes, a smaller motor and lightweight raft might be enough. For rougher waters, I needed a sturdier raft with a more powerful motor.
2. Size and Capacity
My next step was to consider how many people would typically be on the raft. I made sure the raft’s size and weight capacity matched my group’s needs plus any gear I’d bring along. A raft that’s too small can be cramped and unsafe, while one that’s too large might be harder to handle.
3. Motor Type and Power
Choosing the right motor was crucial. There are electric motors and gas-powered motors. I found electric motors quieter and more eco-friendly, perfect for fishing and calm waters. Gas motors, on the other hand, gave me more power and range, especially useful for longer trips or bigger bodies of water. I also checked the motor’s thrust rating to ensure it could handle the raft’s size.
4. Battery Life and Fuel Efficiency
For electric motors, battery life was a big concern. I looked for models with batteries that could last several hours without recharging. For gas motors, I considered fuel tank size and how long one tank would last. This helped me plan my trips better and avoid getting stranded.
5. Durability and Material
The raft’s material matters a lot. I preferred high-quality PVC or Hypalon because they resist punctures and UV damage. A durable raft means less worry about repairs and longer-lasting fun on the water.
6. Portability and Storage
Since I don’t have a huge storage space, I looked for rafts that fold down compactly and motors that are easy to detach and carry. Portability made a big difference when transporting the raft to and from the water.
7. Ease of Installation and Use
I wanted something straightforward. Some rafts come with motor mounts pre-installed, which saved me time. I also checked how easy it was to start and control the motor. Simplicity is key, especially if you’re new to motorized rafts.
8. Safety Features
Safety is always a priority. I made sure the raft had secure seating, sturdy handles, and included safety gear like life jackets or emergency repair kits. For the motor, features like kill switches and throttle controls helped me feel more secure.
9. Budget
Finally, I set a budget. Motorized rafts can vary widely in price. I balanced cost with quality and features, knowing that investing a bit more upfront can save money and headaches later.
10. Customer Reviews and Warranty
Before making the final decision, I read customer reviews to learn about real-world experiences. I also checked the warranty offered, as a good warranty is a sign of confidence from the manufacturer and protects my investment.
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By keeping these points in mind, I found a raft with a motor that perfectly suited my needs. I hope my guide makes your buying experience smoother and more enjoyable!
Author Profile
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I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.
Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.
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