Best Beginner Raft?

[russj]

Take a look at the new Saturn line boats. They make some nice sizes (13', 14') and with shipping, come in under $1400. My friend just bought the 14' and it has a self bailing air floor that is hard and you can actually stand and jump on it. For the price it is hard to beat. It is PVC instead of hypalon and most people seem to believe in hypalon but it has been a great strong boat so far.

[Lax71vcu]

I recently bought my first raft an Aire Puma. It is 11.5 feet long and 5.5 feet wide. It is PERFECT for R-2 in my opinion. It is able to handle both high and low water runs and I have paddled it with 5 people. 5 people was PACKED. 4 much easier. But R-2 and R-3 was the best.

If you can find a NRS or Hyside raft with those dimensions You will be VERY happy....

I also purchased a small rowing frame to hold a cooler and use for fishing.... Love it.

As far as PVC vs Hypalon.....
Pointless argument.... Consider it personal preference or a PC vs MAC or Chevy vs Ford... You will find different opinions everywhere.

Good luck