When it comes to maritime safety, the terms liferaft and lifeboat are often mixed up. Both are critical survival tools, but they are not the same. Knowing the difference helps boaters, crew, and passengers understand what kind of protection they have on board. At Life Raft Professionals, we specialize in certified liferafts designed for both coastal and offshore emergencies.
What Is a Liferaft?
A liferaft is an inflatable survival craft stored in a compact container. It can be launched manually or automatically when submerged in water. Liferafts are designed for quick deployment and can be used even when crew strength is limited. Offshore SOLAS-approved liferafts often include features like canopies, insulated floors, ballast bags, and survival packs.
What Is a Lifeboat?
A lifeboat is a rigid survival craft permanently mounted on a ship. These are usually made of fiberglass or metal and can be motorized. Lifeboats require davits or mechanical systems for launch. They are mandatory on large commercial ships, cruise liners, and tankers under international maritime law.
Key Differences Between Liferafts and Lifeboats
- Construction: Liferafts are inflatable; lifeboats are rigid.
- Deployment: Liferafts can auto-deploy or be thrown overboard. Lifeboats require davit systems and crew operation.
- Capacity: Lifeboats hold more people for longer survival periods. Liferafts are lighter, compact, and built for short- to mid-term survival.
- Mobility: Lifeboats may have engines or oars. Liferafts drift with wind and currents.
- Usage: Lifeboats are required on large vessels. Liferafts are vital backups for smaller boats, yachts, and offshore trips.
When to Choose a Liferaft
Liferafts are essential for recreational sailors, fishing vessels, and offshore operators who need reliable emergency evacuation. They are compact, easy to store, and built for rapid deployment. See our liferaft collection for coastal, offshore, and commercial SOLAS-approved models.
When Lifeboats Are Required
Lifeboats are required on large ships under SOLAS regulations. They are not practical for smaller vessels due to their size and weight. Instead, smaller operators rely on certified liferafts to meet safety needs.
Examples From Life Raft Professionals
Coastal and Offshore Liferafts
Our coastal and offshore liferafts from Viking, Revere, and Survitec provide reliable survival equipment for recreational and professional use.
Commercial Liferafts
We also supply USCG- and SOLAS-approved liferafts for shipping companies, oil platforms, and other commercial operations that require certified gear.
FAQ
Is a liferaft the same as a lifeboat?
No. A liferaft is inflatable and portable, while a lifeboat is rigid and mounted directly on a ship.
Which is safer, a lifeboat or a liferaft?
Lifeboats are safer for long-term survival at sea, while liferafts are designed for quick deployment and short- to mid-term emergencies.
Do small boats carry lifeboats?
No. Smaller boats carry liferafts because they are compact, lightweight, and easy to deploy.
Are liferafts SOLAS-approved?
Yes, many liferafts are SOLAS-approved. See our commercial collection for certified offshore and commercial rafts.
Which should I buy for my vessel?
If you operate a yacht, fishing vessel, or small commercial boat, a liferaft is the right choice. Lifeboats are only practical and required for large, ocean-going ships.
Conclusion
So, is it a liferaft or lifeboat? The answer depends on the vessel. Lifeboats are rigid, heavy-duty survival craft required on large commercial ships, while liferafts are inflatable, compact, and critical for smaller vessels and offshore emergencies. At Life Raft Professionals, we provide certified liferafts tailored to your boating needs, from coastal sailing to commercial operations.