Life rafts are one of the most critical pieces of safety equipment on any vessel. They provide shelter, flotation, and survival essentials in the event of an emergency. However, not all life rafts are created equal. Depending on your boating activity and regulatory requirements, you may need a different type of raft. In general, life rafts fall into three main categories: coastal, offshore, and SOLAS-approved commercial rafts. At Life Raft Professionals, we carry all three so you can select the right fit for your waters.
1. Coastal Life Rafts
Coastal life rafts are designed for nearshore emergencies, where help is likely to arrive quickly. They are compact, lightweight, and easy to deploy, making them popular for recreational boaters and day cruisers. While they offer essential protection, they do not have the same rugged features as offshore or SOLAS rafts.
Key Features of Coastal Rafts
- Lightweight construction for easy storage and handling
- Manual or automatic inflation systems
- Basic canopy for sun and rain protection
- Short-term emergency supplies
Explore our coastal liferaft collection to find compact models ideal for recreational use.
2. Offshore Life Rafts
Offshore life rafts are built for longer rescue times and harsher conditions. They include sturdier materials, stability features, and more survival equipment. Offshore sailors, fishermen, and cruisers heading beyond sight of land often choose these rafts.
Key Features of Offshore Rafts
- Durable double-tube construction
- Ballast bags to reduce drift and capsizing risk
- Insulated floors to help prevent hypothermia
- Canopies with reflective material for visibility
- Emergency packs with food, water, and signaling gear
See our offshore rafts for bluewater cruising and ocean passages.
3. SOLAS Commercial Life Rafts
SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) rafts are the highest standard and are mandatory for many commercial vessels, including cargo ships, tankers, and cruise liners. These rafts are rigorously tested for stability, deployment, and survival capabilities in extreme conditions.
Key Features of SOLAS Rafts
- Self-righting capability for capsize recovery
- Multiple buoyancy chambers for redundancy
- Extended survival packs with food, water, and first-aid supplies
- Radar reflectors, signaling equipment, and reflective canopies
- Designed for long-duration survival and delayed rescue
Shop our commercial SOLAS rafts from trusted brands like Viking, Revere, and Survitec.
How to Choose the Right Life Raft
The best raft for your vessel depends on your activity, distance from shore, and regulatory requirements:
- Coastal: Great for nearshore boaters and short trips.
- Offshore: Essential for ocean crossings, offshore fishing, or extended cruising.
- SOLAS: Required for commercial vessels and recommended for extreme offshore operations.
FAQ
What are the three main types of life rafts?
Coastal, offshore, and SOLAS-approved commercial rafts.
Do I need a SOLAS raft for my yacht?
No. SOLAS rafts are required for commercial ships. Offshore rafts are usually suitable for yachts and private cruisers.
Can a coastal raft be used in the open ocean?
No. Coastal rafts are not designed for long rescues or rough seas. Offshore or SOLAS models are recommended for those conditions.
How often should liferafts be serviced?
Most manufacturers recommend service every 1–3 years. Regular inspections ensure your raft is ready in an emergency.
Which raft is best for offshore fishing?
An offshore life raft with extended survival packs and stability features is the safest choice for offshore fishing trips.
Conclusion
Life rafts fall into three primary categories: coastal, offshore, and SOLAS-approved commercial models. Each type serves a different purpose, from quick-response recreational emergencies to long-term offshore survival. At Life Raft Professionals, we provide certified rafts across all categories, helping boaters and professionals prepare for the unexpected with confidence.