Introduction
A life raft is more than an inflatable vessel. Inside each raft is a carefully prepared survival kit designed to keep occupants alive until rescue. The type and amount of gear varies depending on whether the raft is intended for coastal, offshore, commercial, or aviation use. In this article, we break down what is in a life raft, why those items matter, and how examples from Life Raft Professionals show the differences between models.
Basic Features Found in Most Life Rafts
All life rafts, regardless of type, come with certain essential components built into their design:
- Inflatable tubes and canopy: Provide buoyancy and protection from the elements.
- Water ballast pockets: Keep the raft stable in waves and wind.
- Boarding ladder or ramp: Helps survivors enter from the water.
- Insulated floor: Reduces heat loss from direct contact with cold water.
Emergency Equipment Packs
Most life rafts come with survival equipment sealed inside. The contents depend on the raft’s classification and approvals:
Coastal Life Rafts
Coastal models typically include minimal gear because rescue is expected quickly. Items may include bailers, a repair kit, and basic signaling devices. For example, the Crewsaver Coastal Mariner Life Raft is compact and suited for short-range boating.
Offshore Life Rafts
Offshore rafts are equipped for longer waits. They often contain thermal protective aids, seasickness tablets, paddles, bailers, repair kits, flares, and a sea anchor. A model like the Superior Offshore Stream Life Raft is designed for extended cruising with more built-in supplies.
Commercial and SOLAS Life Rafts
Commercial vessels require USCG and SOLAS-approved rafts with extensive survival kits. SOLAS rafts come with “A” or “B” packs:
- A-Pack: Designed for voyages far from shore, includes food rations, drinking water, fishing gear, and signaling devices.
- B-Pack: Designed for nearshore operations, includes less food and water but still has signaling and survival gear.
The Revere Low Profile USCG/SOLAS A Life Raft is one such example for commercial ships.
Aviation Life Rafts
Aircraft rafts are lightweight but still include essentials like water-activated lights, survival manuals, signaling mirrors, and compact first-aid supplies. The Revere Aero Compact Aviation Life Raft shows how equipment is scaled down for weight and storage needs.
Examples of Common Items Inside a Life Raft
- Hand flares and smoke signals
- Sea anchor to keep the raft oriented
- Bailers and sponges to remove water
- Repair kit with patches and adhesive
- Paddles for maneuvering short distances
- Drinking water and rations (SOLAS A pack)
- First-aid kit and seasickness tablets
- Thermal blankets or survival bags
Why Servicing Matters
Every piece of equipment in a life raft must remain functional. Over time, flares expire, adhesives dry out, and rations lose effectiveness. That is why regular servicing and repacking are essential. Life Raft Professionals also supports USCG-approved life float refurbishment, helping operators maintain safety without unnecessary replacement costs.
Conclusion
What is in a life raft can mean the difference between survival and risk at sea. From flotation and weather protection to food, water, and signaling gear, the contents vary by model and approval type. Understanding these differences helps you choose the right raft for your needs. Explore the full Life Rafts collection at Life Raft Professionals to find the best fit for your vessel or aircraft.
FAQ
What equipment is included in all life rafts
All life rafts have flotation chambers, a canopy, a ladder or ramp, and basic tools such as bailers and sponges. Offshore and commercial rafts carry more survival gear.
What is the difference between SOLAS A and SOLAS B packs
A-packs are stocked for long-duration rescues and include food, water, and fishing gear. B-packs are lighter, designed for shorter waits, and include fewer consumables.
Do coastal life rafts come with food and water
No, coastal rafts usually do not include rations or water since they are intended for nearshore rescue where response is expected quickly.
How long do survival rations in a life raft last
Most rations and water pouches have a shelf life of 3 to 5 years and must be replaced during servicing to remain effective.
Can life raft equipment be customized
Some rafts allow additional survival kits to be packed, but USCG and SOLAS models must maintain their approved configurations.