SOLAS-Approved Inflatable Rafts | Commercial ships, offshore platforms | 25-person capacity (IMO SOLAS certification) ▲ Self-inflating mechanism (activates in <15 seconds) Inflatable cover with UV protection (ASTM D4355) B-Pack safety gear (6 flares, 24 life jackets) Reflective strips (ISO 15398 compliant) | Mandatory for commercial compliance ▲ Rapid deployment ▲ Comprehensive safety features ▲ Weather-resistant shelter | Bulky storage ▲ Higher cost ▲ Requires annual inspections |
Non-SOLAS Inflatable Rafts | Recreational boats, inland waterways | 10-person capacity (ISO 9650) Manual inflation (user-activated) Basic safety gear (4 flares, 1 whistle) Compact cylindrical storage (0.5m³) | Lightweight ▲ Cost-effective ▲ Easier storage ▲ Simple design | Non-compliant with SOLAS ▲ Limited capacity ▲ No automatic deployment |
Rigid Lifeboats | Large commercial vessels, military ships | 15-person capacity ▲ Non-inflatable fiberglass hull (IMO-approved) Weatherproof enclosure (IP67) Manual davit launch system | Durable construction ▲ Stable in rough seas ▲ No inflation required | Heavy and bulky ▲ Complex deployment ▲ High maintenance costs ▲ |
Hybrid Life Rafts | Cruise ships, research vessels | 20-person capacity ▲ Semi-rigid hull (fiberglass composite) ▲ Dual inflation (manual + automatic) Solar-powered beacon (IEC 61094) | Combines durability and portability ▲ Advanced signaling ▲ Reduced storage space ▲ | Higher maintenance ▲ Complex operation ▲ Costlier than inflatables |
Manual Inflatable Rafts | Yachts, small commercial boats | 15-person capacity ▲ Manual CO₂ inflation ▲ Basic shelter (no cover) Standard safety gear (4 flares) | Simple design ▲ Lower cost ▲ No automatic systems | Slower deployment ▲ Limited weather protection ▲ Requires user action |
Compact Storage Valise Rafts | High-speed craft, sailboats | 10-person capacity ▲ Ultra-compact cylindrical storage (0.3m³) ▲ Quick inflation (30 seconds) ▲ Lightweight (15kg) | Easy storage ▲ Rapid deployment ▲ Space-efficient ▲ Quick access | Limited capacity ▲ No shelter ▲ Less durable materials ▲ |