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For many, there is no better way to pass the day on the water. Whether it’s fun with family or friends or a spot of fishing an inflatable boat is going to allow you to enjoy your outdoor time much more. As a decent investment for some, and considering safety, it’s essential that you choose the right boat for you.
We are going to compare the Sea Eagle SE9 vs Intex Mariner 4. We will look at all of their specifications and features before adding the information to a comparison chart. After some pros and cons, we will decide which of the two inflatable boats is the better buy.
As the Sea Eagle SE9 and the Intex Mariner 4 have nothing in common except for being inflatable boats, we get started with their differences.
Sea Eagle SE9 vs Intex Mariner 4
Quick Glance
Here are the specifics of the Sea Eagle SE9 and the Intex Mariner 4 side by side.
Appearance
The two inflatable boats are similar in size but very different in design.
Sea Eagle SE9
The exterior of the boat is 132 inches long. The interior measurements are 90.2 x 28 inches. The boat alone weighs 16kg but with the floor and motor mount, it weighs 23kg. The boat is white with blue features.
Intex Mariner 4
The exterior measurements are 129.1 x 57.1 inches; however, there is no product information on the interior dimensions. In total, it weighs 32kg. There are two designs, one is gray with red features and the other is gray with blue features.
The Winner Is- A Tie
Capacity
While the two boats have a maximum capacity of 4 people, the weight limit is slightly different.
Sea Eagle SE9
The maximum weight capacity for this boat is 1200 pounds.
Intex Mariner 4
It’s just quite a bit less with a weight limit of 1100 pounds.
The Winner Is- The Sea Eagle SE9
Read next – Intex Mariner vs Intex Excursion: Which Inflatable Boats are Better?
Materials
One of the reasons for the weight differences might be because of the different materials used. It also relates to the durability of the boats.
Sea Eagle SE9
The boat is made of 38mil PolyKrylar (K80 PVC). It also has a nylon fabric protective outer layer.
Intex Mariner 4
There are two layers of supreme strength, super-tough PVC as well as an inner layer of polyester mesh. Around the entire hull, there is a durable rock guard line for added protection. The boat is resistant to abrasions, impacts and sunlight.
The Winner Is- The Intex Mariner 4
Read next – Intex Mariner 3 vs Intex Mariner 4: Which Inflatable Boats are Better?
The Floor
Both of the floors are inflatable and removable.
Sea Eagle SE9
This is a double-layered reinforced I-beam constructed floor with an external protective sheath.
Intex Mariner 4
The floor is made of heavy-duty extruded plastic with removable slats.
The Winner Is- A Tie
Carry Handles and Oarlocks
While one boat is easier to carry, the other has far superior oarlocks.
Sea Eagle SE9
There is one carry handle on the front of the boat and two on each side. The front carry handles double up as oarlocks. There is a grab line around the whole boat.
Intex Mariner 4
There is only one carry handle at the front of the boat plus the complete grab line. The oarlocks are actual oarlocks and welded on.
The Winner Is- A Tie
Seats
The capacity is for 4 people, but your seating arrangements might not be the same. The seats are also inflatable and removable in case you want to take one out for more room.
Sea Eagle SE9
One seat is 14 inches high and the other is 4 inches high.
Intex Mariner 4
The 3 inflatable seats are all the same height.
The Winner Is- The Intex Mariner 4
Air Valves and Drains
Inflating and deflating a boat isn’t always the most fun part but these two brands have made it easier.
Sea Eagle SE9
There are 4 deluxe one-way valves and two easy open floor drains.
Intex Mariner 4
The hull has 4 Boston valves for fast inflating and deflating.
The Winner Is- The Intex Mariner 4
Motor Mount
In case you don’t want to paddle the boats, you can also attach motors.
Sea Eagle SE9
The removable motor mount is suitable for up to 3HP motors with a maximum weight of 45 pounds.
Intex Mariner 4
This boat has motor mount fittings for motors up to 3HP, but the weight is not listed.
The Winner Is- A Tie
Pros and Cons
We will take a quick look at some pros and cons before the final verdict.
Sea Eagle SE9
Pros:
- It comes with a pump and a better-quality carry bag
- The floor is sturdy, and it feels quite safe
- It is very quick to set up
Cons:
- The oarlocks aren’t all that strong
Intex Mariner 4
Pros:
- It comes with oars, an air pump, a repair kit and a carry bag
- Better control because of the inflatable keel
- It has welded on rotational oarlocks and 2 fishing rod holders
Cons:
- There have been a few quality control issues with the Boston valves
The Final Verdict
The 90-day warranty on the Intex Mariner 4 is slightly disappointing, especially compared to the 3-year warranty of the Sea Eagle SE9. That being said, we still found the Intex Mariner a better buy. It is slightly cheaper at the moment and the quality of the materials is much better. Even the fact that it comes with the oars adds to the value. Set up is easy and you have plenty of space for everyone to enjoy the water.