A life raft is designed to provide emergency flotation and protection in the event of abandoning ship. But one of the most common questions boaters ask is: how long can a life raft actually stay afloat? The answer depends on the type of raft, its construction, and the conditions at sea. At Life Raft Professionals, we provide coastal, offshore, and SOLAS-approved liferafts that meet strict standards for durability and survival.
Design Life vs. Emergency Use
Life rafts are not intended to replace a vessel; they are temporary survival platforms until rescue arrives. Most modern rafts, especially SOLAS-approved rafts, are designed to stay afloat for days or even weeks depending on conditions and maintenance.
Factors That Affect How Long a Raft Floats
Construction Materials
Durable fabric like neoprene or polyurethane is used in high-quality rafts. These materials resist punctures and abrasion, helping rafts remain buoyant for extended periods.
Inflation System
Rafts are inflated with CO₂ or a mix of gases. Double inflatable tubes provide redundancy so the raft can stay afloat even if one chamber is damaged.
Ballast and Stability
Ballast bags filled with water add stability, reducing capsizing in rough seas. This helps the raft remain usable longer.
Environmental Conditions
Heavy seas, extreme heat, or ice can shorten raft life. Calm waters and proper handling extend survival time.
SOLAS Standards for Liferafts
SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) regulations set the benchmark for commercial liferafts. These rafts must demonstrate the ability to remain afloat in rough offshore conditions and are equipped with survival packs for extended emergencies. With proper servicing, they can perform reliably even in extreme weather.
How Long You Can Expect
- Coastal rafts: Built for short-term emergencies near shore; typically remain afloat long enough for rapid rescue.
- Offshore rafts: Designed for extended rescues, capable of staying afloat for several days to weeks.
- SOLAS commercial rafts: Rigorously tested to stay afloat for long durations, with redundancy and survival gear to support crews until help arrives.
Examples From Our Store
Coastal Liferafts
Lightweight and compact, our coastal rafts are ideal for day sailors and nearshore boaters.
Offshore and Commercial Rafts
For offshore or professional use, our SOLAS-approved rafts from Viking, Survitec, and Revere provide maximum durability and survival time.
FAQ
How long can a life raft stay afloat?
Modern liferafts can stay afloat for days to weeks, depending on the type, construction, and sea conditions.
Do SOLAS rafts last longer than coastal rafts?
Yes. SOLAS rafts are designed for offshore survival and include stronger materials, redundancy, and extended survival gear.
Can a raft sink if punctured?
Most rafts have double buoyancy tubes, so they remain afloat even if one chamber is compromised.
How often should rafts be serviced?
Rafts should be serviced every 1–3 years as recommended by the manufacturer to ensure inflation systems and materials remain reliable.
Are rafts designed to last months at sea?
No. While some survivors have lasted months adrift, rafts are designed as temporary survival craft, not replacements for vessels.
Conclusion
A life raft can stay afloat from several days to weeks, depending on its design, construction, and the conditions it faces. Coastal models are suited for short-term emergencies, while offshore and SOLAS-approved rafts are built to endure extended rescues. At Life Raft Professionals, we carry liferafts for every need, helping ensure that when the unexpected happens, you and your crew have the best chance of survival.