Since 2012, the French company Tiwal has been offering a fully inflatable sailing boat that fits into two bags and can be set up in 20 minutes. The Tiwal 3R, launched in 2019, established itself as a compact sports boat for one to two people. Now Tiwal is following suit: The 3R Max offers more space, more sail area and more payload - with the same transport volume.
Larger in all dimensions
The Tiwal 3R Max has grown in all dimensions. The length has increased from 3.20 to 3.55 metres and the width from 1.50 to 1.65 metres. The maximum payload is 200, allowing two adults and some luggage to sail more comfortably. Only 160 kilograms are permitted off the edge.
The weight of the boat increases to 61 kilograms. The boat still fits in two bagsHowever, two bags are added for the rig and sails. The bags with the hull are already quite heavy at 27 and 30 kilograms. The rig and sails, on the other hand, are almost lightweights at 9 and 6 kilograms.
More sail area for more speed
The additional space sail on the longer bowsprit should also increase the speed potential. The Tiwal 3R Max is designed to start planing earlier and reach speeds of up to 14 knots.
The hull is made of drop-stitch material - the same fabric used for stand-up paddle boards. Thousands of threads connect the top and bottom surfaces, creating a flat, rigid surface at high air pressure. The Tiwal is inflated to 0.3 bar (4.3 PSI). This takes about ten minutes with the hand pump supplied, but is quicker with an electric pump (optional).
The material is robust and UV-resistant. Minor damage can be repaired with a repair kit - similar to an inflatable boat. Tiwal gives a ten-year guarantee on the hull. After use, the air is released, the hull is rolled up and packed into the transport bag.
The centreboard is in a centreboard box in the hull and can be raised if necessary, which is practical in shallow water or when landing. The rudder is permanently mounted and can be removed for transport.
Who is the Tiwal 3R Max intended for?
Tiwal is positioning the 3R Max as a performance upgrade for experienced sailors. Anyone who finds the normal 3R too small, wants to sail with two people or is looking for more sail area for sporty sailing should opt for the Max. The larger cockpit offers more comfort.
The normal Tiwal 3R remains in the programme and is aimed at beginners, solo sailors and anyone who wants maximum portability. At 45 kilograms, it is easier to transport, quicker to set up and easier to handle. It is perfectly adequate for pure fun trips or occasional excursions.
The 3R Max appeals to experienced sailors who are looking for a compact boat for sporty sailing that still fits in the boot. Anyone who cannot or does not want to accommodate a dinghy with a trailer will find a clever alternative in the Tiwal. The system also works as a dinghy for larger yachts - it takes up little space when packed up and offers real sailing fun when set up.
The price
The Tiwal 3R Max costs 11,490 euros. By comparison, the normal Tiwal 3R costs from 8,800 euros. The Tiwal 3R Max can be ordered via the Tiwal website.
Technical data:
Tiwal 3R Max:
Dimensions:
- Length: 3.70 m (with bowsprit)
- Width: 1.62 m
- Weight: 61 kg
- Maximum payload: 200 kg
- Crew: 1-2 persons
Sail:
- Mainsail: 6.5 m²
- Genoa (optional): 2.8 m²
- Total with genoa: 9.3 m²
Material:
- Hull: Drop-stitch (inflatable)
- Air pressure: 0.3 bar (4.3 PSI)
- Mast: Carbon
Transport:
- 4 transport bags
- Set-up time: about 40 minutes
- Fits in any car boot
Price:
- With carbon fibre rig and aluminium frame: 11,490 euros
More inflatable sailing boats:
Michael Rinck
Redakteur Test & Technik
