Design and Build
The Excursion 4 measures 124 by 65 inches with a 17-inch tube diameter, built from an enhanced PVC formulation designed for moderate puncture resistance. Structural safety relies on three separate air chambers, including an internal auxiliary bladder housed within the main outer hull. Dual Boston valves service the primary chambers to accelerate inflation and deflation cycles. Rather than employing modern drop-stitch panels that maintain high structural rigidity under load, the floor utilizes an inflatable PVC I-beam design. The manufacturer does not publish an explicit working PSI rating in standard marketing summaries, so buyers must verify the exact recommended inflation tolerances via the printed hull scale before deployment. Hardware includes welded oarlocks, two plastic fishing rod brackets, bow and stern storage space, and perimeter grab lines secured to welded grommets.
Real-World Performance
On flat water, the broad beam provides dependable initial stability, allowing seated passengers to move without inducing severe heel. However, hydrodynamic efficiency is minimal. Because the low-pressure I-beam floor lacks the rigidity of a drop-stitch base, the hull flexes across chop, creating drag rather than clean displacement. The propulsion setup further constrains range. The included 54-inch oars are short for a 65-inch beam, forcing an awkward stroke angle that rapidly strains shoulders and forearms. Over extended outings, paddle weight and leverage deficiencies become acutely evident after several hundred strokes. Tracking in crosswinds is difficult, as the boat lacks a skeg or defined keel, resulting in substantial lateral drift. It functions reliably as a stationary angling platform on sheltered ponds, but fails to maintain course in strong currents.
Value for Money
Retailing at $132.99 with an average 4.4-star rating across more than 3,300 reviews, the Excursion 4 presents high volume per dollar. The package eliminates hidden entry costs by bundling a high-output manual pump, two basic breakdown oars, a gear pouch, and a repair patch. For sporadic outings on small private lakes, the capital expenditure is minimal compared to rotomolded plastic or high-pressure inflatables. However, prospective owners must budget beyond the retail package. Safe operation mandates procuring Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices for all occupants rather than relying on uncertified recreational vests. Upgrading to longer, lighter paddles or an aftermarket motor mount also adds expense. Within its strict operational limits as a budget family tender or casual fishing vessel, the financial return remains undeniably strong.
Who Should Skip It
Paddlers planning river touring, coastal exploration, or rapid-water transit should bypass this craft entirely. The broad PVC profile and absence of directional tracking elements render self-rescue and progress against tidal flows or heavy winds nearly impossible. Solo recreationists should also reconsider; at a net weight of roughly 50 pounds when packed, the folded hull is excessively cumbersome for one person to carry over uneven terrain without mechanical assistance. Anglers who insist on standing while casting will find the I-beam floor too compliant underfoot compared to high-PSI drop-stitch stand-up platforms. Furthermore, long-distance rowers demanding efficient power transfer should invest in crafts with proper rowing geometry, rigid floorboards, and lightweight performance oars to avoid premature physical exhaustion on open water.
