“99% of boaties spend 99% of their time within the sight of land”
A spokes person from SOS Marine said “This is the market we are addressing with our 2 person raft- being one of the smallest lightest and cheapest on the market but with many features found in the larger offshore rafts”.
The Valise packed raft includes the Survival Aids- a signaling mirror, fresh water and a mini flares kit.
The Raft is designed to be easily stored being compact and weighing less than 8 kilos .
Although designed for inshore and coastal conditions, the raft has 3 large ballast pockets to improve stability in rougher seas and has a thermal floor to moderate water temperature.
It has been designed for ease of operation- either giving the painter line a good tug or throw in water and it will automatically inflate similar to an auto inflate life jacket.
Maintenance costs have been considerably reduced compare to the existing life rafts costs.
Equipment includes: Sea Anchor, Knife, Air Pump, Righting strap, SOLAS reflective tape, 2 SOLAS lights, Rescue Ring and a boarding ladder with buoyancy assist platform.
SOS Marine is an Australian company manufacturing protection, safety and rescue equipment for 12 countries Defence Force and many maritime professionals worldwide.
The new two person Life raft recommended Retail price is $1499 including GST and a sample will be on display at the Sydney Boat Show on Southern Seas Stand 716.