Introduction
A life raft is one of the most important pieces of safety equipment for anyone traveling by sea or air over water. It is a compact, inflatable survival craft that provides flotation, shelter, and essential supplies when abandoning a vessel or aircraft in an emergency. In this article, you will learn what life rafts are, the types available, how they work, and how to select one that suits your needs. We also highlight product examples from Life Raft Professionals.
What Is a Life Raft
A life raft is a small, inflatable craft designed for survival at sea. It is stored in a container or valise and deploys automatically or manually during an emergency. Most models include safety features like water ballast pockets, insulated floors, survival rations, signaling devices, and a canopy to protect occupants from exposure.
Why Life Rafts Are Essential
- Emergency flotation: Provides buoyancy if a vessel sinks, capsizes, or must be abandoned.
- Weather protection: Many rafts have canopies and insulated floors to reduce hypothermia risk.
- Rescue readiness: Rafts often include equipment packs with flares, repair kits, and first aid supplies.
- Regulatory compliance: Commercial vessels and aircraft may be legally required to carry life rafts approved by the USCG, SOLAS, or TSO.
Types of Life Rafts
Coastal Life Rafts
Coastal life rafts are designed for nearshore trips where rescue is expected within hours. They are lighter, smaller, and often stored in a soft valise bag. An example is the Crewsaver Coastal Mariner Life Raft.
Offshore Life Rafts
Offshore rafts are built for longer rescues and harsher conditions. They include insulated floors, water ballast pockets, and full canopies. The Superior Offshore Stream Life Raft is an option for serious bluewater sailors.
Commercial Life Rafts
Commercial vessels require USCG and SOLAS approved life rafts. These rafts come in low profile containers or round canisters with cradles. For example, the Revere Low Profile USCG/SOLAS A Life Raft is a common choice.
Aviation Life Rafts
Aviation life rafts are lightweight and compact, designed for aircraft overwater flights. They are available in TSO and non TSO certified versions. The Revere Aero Compact Aviation Life Raft is an example suited to small aircraft.
How a Life Raft Works
Life rafts are packed with a compressed gas cylinder and a triggering mechanism. When activated, either manually or through hydrostatic release, the raft inflates within seconds. Occupants board directly from the vessel if possible or from the water using boarding ladders or ramps. Stabilizing pockets fill with water to keep the raft upright, and survival gear stored inside supports occupants until rescue.
How to Choose the Right Life Raft
1. Match to Your Voyage
Choose coastal, offshore, commercial, or aviation models based on how and where you travel.
2. Confirm Compliance
Commercial operators should confirm USCG or SOLAS approvals. Aviation operators may require TSO certification.
3. Select the Right Capacity
Buy a raft rated for your maximum crew size. Overcrowding or undersizing reduces safety and comfort.
4. Consider Container Style
Valise bags save space indoors. Deck-mounted canisters or low profile containers are better for quick deployment offshore.
5. Plan for Service
Rafts require regular inspection and repacking. Life Raft Professionals also highlights life float refurbishment services for commercial operators.
Conclusion
A life raft is more than just equipment, it is your final line of defense at sea. Whether you are a recreational boater, offshore sailor, commercial operator, or pilot, choosing the right life raft and keeping it properly serviced can save lives. Explore the full range of Life Rafts at Life Raft Professionals to find one that fits your vessel or aircraft.
FAQ
What is the difference between a life raft and a life boat
A life boat is a rigid craft carried on larger ships, while a life raft is inflatable and more compact. Rafts are designed for quick deployment and storage in smaller spaces.
How often should a life raft be serviced
Most manufacturers recommend servicing every one to three years. Commercial and SOLAS rafts must follow stricter schedules set by authorities.
Do I need a SOLAS approved life raft
If you operate a commercial vessel or travel internationally, SOLAS approval is often required. Recreational boaters may not need it but benefit from the higher safety standards.
Can a life raft be reused after deployment
Yes, many models can be repacked and recertified after inspection and servicing, unless they are damaged beyond repair.
What capacity life raft should I choose
Select a raft rated for your maximum passenger count. Adding a small buffer is fine, but avoid oversizing as it can reduce stability in the water.