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8 Best Inflatable River Rafts 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Intex Excursion 5 Person Inflatable Boat, Water Fishing River Raft Set w/ Oars - Large 1,300 Lb Capacity Portable Blow-Up 5 Seater Raft for Adults

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,282
Material
Chambers
Floor Type

Most important from
8427 reviews

Material
The inflatable compartments and tough vinyl material ensure that a single puncture won't sink the boat.
Chambers
The boat's construction with three separate air chambers adds an extra layer of safety, making it nearly unsinkable.
Floor Type
Despite the inflatable floor being a bit wobbly, modifications like adding a plywood deck can improve stability.
Accessories
The inflatable seats are low for stability and comfort, and the included oars are easy to use.

The Intex Excursion 5 Person Inflatable Boat is designed for those who enjoy river adventures and require a sturdy, spacious raft.

Made from SuperStrong enhanced molecular formulation PVC, this raft is noted for its superior durability, high impact, and abrasion resistance, making it suitable for various river conditions.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,282
Material
Chambers
Floor Type

Most important from
8427 reviews

Material
The inflatable compartments and tough vinyl material ensure that a single puncture won't sink the boat.
Chambers
The boat's construction with three separate air chambers adds an extra layer of safety, making it nearly unsinkable.
Floor Type
Despite the inflatable floor being a bit wobbly, modifications like adding a plywood deck can improve stability.
Accessories
The inflatable seats are low for stability and comfort, and the included oars are easy to use.
#3

Intex Blue Tropic Inflatable 5 Person Raft or Swimming Pool Island Water Floating Lounger Raft with Backrests, Built in Cooler, and 4 Cupholders

Rating
9.8
Material
Size and Capacity
Chambers

Most important from
673 reviews

Material
Built from heavy-duty vinyl, this raft offers impressive durability that withstands years of regular use on lakes and rivers.
Size and Capacity
The spacious design comfortably accommodates multiple people, making it ideal for social floating and relaxation.
Chambers
The single-chamber design offers simplicity but may lack the safety redundancy of multi-chamber rafts, making it best suited for calm waters.
Floor Type
The mesh netting floor keeps users cool during hot days, enhancing comfort during extended lounging.
Valves
Inflating the raft takes about 15 minutes without a pump included, so having a separate inflator is highly recommended.
Accessories
Integrated cup holders and a built-in cooler add convenience, though some find the cooler less useful as it can fill with water.

The Intex Blue Tropic Inflatable Raft is a spacious and comfortable option for anyone looking to relax on the water with friends or family. Made from durable polyvinyl chloride, it’s designed to hold up to 1100 pounds, accommodating up to five adults comfortably. Its large size (129" by 112") and three backrests provide good support for lounging, which is a nice touch for extended relaxation. The raft’s floor includes mesh netting, helping users stay cool on hot days, while four handles make climbing on and off easier.

It also features four cup holders and a built-in cooler, which are great for keeping drinks handy and chilled during your outing, adding to the convenience and fun. The raft does not include a pump, so you’ll need to inflate it yourself, which could take some effort given its size. The product weight is nearly 20 kilograms, so while it’s portable, it’s not the lightest option available. The raft has a single-chamber design, which may offer less safety redundancy than multi-chamber models.

This floating island is well suited for calm waters like lakes or pools rather than swift rivers, making it ideal for leisurely summer days. If you want a comfortable, social float with thoughtful extras like cupholders and a cooler, this raft fulfills those needs. However, if you require something specifically for river rafting with rugged multi-chamber safety or a built-in pump, other options might be more suitable.

Rating
9.8
Material
Size and Capacity
Chambers

Most important from
673 reviews

Material
Built from heavy-duty vinyl, this raft offers impressive durability that withstands years of regular use on lakes and rivers.
Size and Capacity
The spacious design comfortably accommodates multiple people, making it ideal for social floating and relaxation.
Chambers
The single-chamber design offers simplicity but may lack the safety redundancy of multi-chamber rafts, making it best suited for calm waters.
Floor Type
The mesh netting floor keeps users cool during hot days, enhancing comfort during extended lounging.
Valves
Inflating the raft takes about 15 minutes without a pump included, so having a separate inflator is highly recommended.
Accessories
Integrated cup holders and a built-in cooler add convenience, though some find the cooler less useful as it can fill with water.

Buying Guide for the Best Inflatable River Rafts

Choosing the right inflatable river raft can make a significant difference in your water adventures. Whether you're planning a leisurely float down a calm river or tackling some challenging rapids, it's important to select a raft that suits your needs and preferences. Here are some key specifications to consider when picking an inflatable river raft, along with explanations to help you make an informed decision.
MaterialThe material of the raft is crucial for durability and performance. Common materials include PVC and Hypalon. PVC is more affordable and lightweight, making it suitable for casual use. Hypalon, on the other hand, is more durable and resistant to UV rays and chemicals, making it ideal for frequent use and rough conditions. Consider how often and in what conditions you'll be using the raft to determine the best material for you.
Size and CapacityThe size and capacity of the raft determine how many people and how much gear it can hold. Rafts come in various sizes, typically ranging from small two-person rafts to large rafts that can accommodate eight or more people. If you plan on going with a group or carrying a lot of gear, opt for a larger raft. For solo or duo adventures, a smaller raft will be easier to handle and transport.
WeightThe weight of the raft affects its portability and ease of handling. Lighter rafts are easier to carry and inflate, making them suitable for short trips and easy access points. Heavier rafts, while more cumbersome, often offer better stability and durability, which is beneficial for longer trips and more challenging conditions. Consider how far you'll need to carry the raft and the type of water you'll be navigating.
ChambersInflatable rafts are divided into multiple air chambers for safety. If one chamber gets punctured, the others can keep the raft afloat. More chambers generally mean better safety and stability. For calm waters, a raft with fewer chambers may suffice, but for whitewater rafting, a raft with multiple chambers is recommended to ensure safety.
Floor TypeThe floor type of the raft can affect comfort and performance. There are two main types: inflatable floors and self-bailing floors. Inflatable floors provide a cushioned surface, making them comfortable for long trips. Self-bailing floors have holes that allow water to drain out, which is essential for whitewater rafting. Choose an inflatable floor for comfort on calm waters and a self-bailing floor for rough waters.
ValvesValves are used to inflate and deflate the raft. High-quality valves make this process quicker and easier. Look for rafts with reliable, easy-to-use valves that prevent air leaks. If you plan on inflating and deflating the raft frequently, this feature becomes even more important. Ensure the valves are compatible with your pump for convenience.
AccessoriesAccessories can enhance your rafting experience. Common accessories include paddles, repair kits, and carrying bags. Some rafts come with these accessories included, while others require you to purchase them separately. Consider what accessories you might need based on your planned activities and ensure the raft you choose either includes them or has compatible options available.

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