A new concept
The X-Fun, for Flexible Ultralight Navigation, is a fully inflatable catamaran with two hulls and a platform. Its structure is composed of three dropstitch elements, a process used for inflatable paddles or dinghy floors. Extremely rigid, it measures 4 m long by 1.7 m wide, and weighs 35 kg.
Approved in category D, the X-Fun can carry four passengers, with a payload of 350 kg. Deflated, it can be stored in a bag and takes up the space of a 4-seater tender. Made in Europe, the X-Fun comes with a 3-year warranty and features high-quality gluing, with a very good level of finish.
Complete equipment
To get a better idea of the merits of this new concept, we went to try it out in the port of La Ciotat. At first glance, the X-Fun stands out from conventional inflatable tenders.
Once aboard, it's her stability that's most impressive. The catamaran hull is very efficient and gives a feeling of security.
It's clean and tidy, with six handles, a multitude of stainless steel rings and Borika supports for accessories such as rod holders, oarlocks and a small table.
The X-Fun can be fitted with an optional swim ladder, two inflatable seats, an additional front-mounted platform and a storage net.
Surprising sailing behavior
The X-Fun is designed to be rowed or motorized. Our test model was equipped with a 1KW ePropulsion outboard motor. With this small engine, we reached a speed of 8 knots with two passengers on board. With four adults, speed drops to 5.5 knots.
As the hulls are fairly thin, the hull passes well in the small chop generated by the hustle and bustle of the boat show. As the connections between the hulls and the platform are flexible, it reacts well to a small cross chop.
For maneuvering in tight spaces, the X-Fun turns on the spot, proving extremely maneuverable.
A versatile program
The X-Fun is a multi-purpose boat. It can be used as a tender, but is also equipped to be a leisure boat on protected waters, provided the conditions for use of this category D craft are met.
Some yachting professionals also appreciate its stability when working afloat on larger vessels.
Budget-wise, the X-Fun is available in its basic version at ?6,500 inc. Our test model, with full options and electric drive, is available for ?11,990 incl. VAT.
