Marine Research
Get dependable performance when it counts the most. The Takacat LX Series is the preferred inflatable dinghy for the crew of Barba Boat, and is used as a dive boat by the Calvert Marine Museum Paleontology team and the NOAA and National Aquariums for leatherback turtle research in Florida. With it’s unique inflatable catamaran design, Takacat pairs rugged versatility with lightweight portability for maximum performance on the water. The aerodynamic tapered bow slices through rough water for a smooth comfortable ride wherever research calls—whether it’s studying whales in icy arctic waters or tagging and monitoring leatherback sea turtles in Caribbean seas.
Designed Smart for Durability
Smartly-designed construction makes Takacat extra durable and easy to repair. Takacat is made with durable 0.9 mm, 1,000 Denier custom made 3-ply PVC reinforced fabric material and designed with 50% less seam work that traditional inflatable boats. Seams are glued rather than welded, making them more resistant to brittleness that commonly occurs with welded seams. If tubes need to be replaced, simply order new tubes and assemble as usual, no costly re-tubing necessary. Takacat is available with Hypalon for added abrasion protection in extreme climates and conditions.
Stable and Dry Diving Platform
The open bow design of Takacat provides an accessible and stable landing platform for loading gear and easy entry and exit from boat or water for divers, even in full SCUBA gear. The taper on the bow allows the boat to skim through water for a smooth ride, even on rough seas. Along with the open transom and raised deck, the open bow allows for constant drainage and prevents the deck from holding water onboard. This keeps gear dry and makes Takacat an ideal and safe choice for launching in the surf.
Revolutionary Tube-Transom®
The unique removable ultra-lightweight Tube Transom makes Takacat about 15 lbs lighter and considerably more portable than other inflatables. Removing the transom allows the Takacat to be rolled-up small into two carry bags—a huge advantage over standard fixed transom inflatables, which have a much larger pack down footprint due to the fixed transom. The carry bags can be easy stowed on board, or checked as baggage on a plane.
Why Takacat?
The innovative and versatile Takacat is the perfect marine dinghy for research vessels.
Stable & Roomy
The inflatable catamaran design and roomy air deck floor system creates a firm surface for plenty of gear and crew. The air deck floor inflates to 10 psi, and is high-pressure laminated and heat pressed to the top layer creating a rigid, ultra-durable surface. The deck surface is coated with special non-skid coating with added UV-protection, for maximum traction and durability. With the help of the open bow, entry and exit is easy and safe from boat, beach or water, and the deck (and your gear) stays dry.
Low Environmental Impact
Takacat has a shallow draft that lets the boat glide on top of water to easily access shallow water habitats, with minimized impacts on wildlife and without grounding the boat. The low draft, paired with lightweight construction, allows Takacat to be rowed through sensitive areas and explore nearshore ecosystems, even those with heavy vegetation. In addition, Takacat is easily powered by electric and small horsepower outboards for minimal impact on the ecosystems you're researching.
Easy Towing & Portability
Lightweight rubber construction makes Takacat easy to tow or secure from davits. The boat can be towed with a 3-point towing bridle using two D-Rings on the hulls of the boat and twin D-Rings on the underside of the floor. The unique open bow and transom design means the deck never holds water, greatly minimizing drag when towing. Rubberized rub rails on the sides of the tubes offer extra protection against dings and dents. When it’s time to pack down, carry bags are vented so the boat can be stowed away wet and stay fresh.
Marine Research is a broad category that ranges from massive ocean going vessels to waters in shallow seagrass beds. Takacat boats are shallow draft, stable platforms that can be customized to fit your specific needs. We have even customized Takacats for NOAA for their Leatherback Turtle research and rescue efforts. If your needs require special modifications, contact us to discuss!
Hit the open water with our Takacat LX series of boats!
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Recommended Marine Research Accessories
Expand the performance and capabilities of Takacat with these optional accessories for marine research.
Integrated Rod Holders
Rod holders are great at holding flags and lights as well as other things you don't want to put down in the floor of the boat. These rod holders install easily to the transom and can be stowed in only a few seconds.
Transport Wheels
Get your inflatable boat to and from the water with minimal effort. The Takacat quick release wheels connect to the Takacat Tube Transom® with no tools needed. No need for the hassle of drilling or retrofitting aftermarket wheels.
Takacat Volume Inflator
The rechargable, portable, multi-function TVI is the perfect helper pump. This pump recharges via micro USB and smaller than a can of soda. Assemble your Takacat quickly and get out on the water quicker than it takes to back a trailer into the water!
Our Boats
ACCESSORIES IMPROVE PERFORMANCE & CONVENIENCE
Optional accessories further improve the Takacat experience! Thoughtfully selected and designed to maximize performance and comfort; add-on features such as rod holders that multi-task to hold umbrella and other gear are a trademark of Takacat design innovation.