Saturn SK385XL Kaboat water review

Wow, this thing was so much fun in the water. It is quick, nimble, and agile, and with just a 6hp 4 Stroke outboard, it gets into plane very quickly. The best part of all is that I purchased this one and it is not loaned. I fell in love with it quick. Hope you guys enjoy this review.
**Update Feb, 2024**
This is still my favorite inflatable after owning it for 3 years.
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Link to Boatstogo "Using this link helps me to continue making videos": alnk.to/cwQtKmg

[@kurtwpg]

I was looking for a video of someone with this model using a motor. And damned if there goes Erick, again.

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Hahahahaha!! Just came back from camping at The Econ River, using this model paired with my newly acquired Hangkai 12hp 2 stroke outboard.

[@ErickMartinSucre]

This is a fantastic model. It is light, it catches plane quickly with a 6hp outboard, even better with my 12hp Hangkai "slightly a bit too much power for it, but we can all agree you can't have too much power", it has a 2nd layer of PVC covering the entire bottom, it's my favorite, 2nd being my ZK380.

[@kurtwpg]

@@ErickMartinSucre I just focused more on the "Kaboat" section of Saturns lineup today. It's interesting that it varies from extremely skinny/tippy/kayaky to a only slightly narrower version of the regular dinghy, with this one about in the middle.

[@ErickMartinSucre]

@kurtwpg Indeed, a happy medium.

[@markbaldwin5394]

looks a whole lotta fun!!! respect from england

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Super fun! Hello from Florida

[@greenridgeoutdooradventure3433]

Great video!

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Thank you 😊

[@jasbri1972]

I’m definitely going to buy one now, thanks

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Haha!! It is pretty sweet, 2 people can travel nicely in it but I tend to ride by myself most of the time so this is perfect. What a fun little kaboat!

[@MrSteago1]

I am sold. Lol Picking one up this coming week

[@ErickMartinSucre]

A nice choice! I love this kaboat so far. You can kayak with it just fine but it is meant to use a motor to assist you.

[@MrSteago1]

@@ErickMartinSucre I get that. Thanks for the input Boss Been researching which 1 to get. I am looking forward to this.

[@MrSteago1]

@@ErickMartinSucre Just wanted to tell you that I picked up abSaturn SK470 XL today. I kept going back and forth between the Bris and the Saturn... But Like I said: Your review sold me. Looking forward to registering it and taking it out in the water in the coming weeks. Thanks Boss

[@ErickMartinSucre]

@@MrSteago1 Always a pleasure and Saturn has better models in my opinion.

[@MrSteago1]

@@ErickMartinSucre Now you tell me lol... I'll rock with this one for now. But I'll definitely check your channel when I am ready for an upgrade

[@shawnmoore9714]

I have this one and for a seat I use a 1x10'' pine board across the tubes .Not only do you sit up a bit higher, taking strain off the knees, I can move to different spots for motoring vs rowing and carrying a passenger. I haven't used the seats that came with it for a couple years now.

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Nice! It's a tough little kaboat

[@norcaloutdoor5462]

Wow! good one.

[@ErickMartinSucre]

It flies with a 6hp motor. Doesn't need a lot of power to move.

[@NaturalAltitudes]

@@ErickMartinSucre what would you say your maximum speed was?

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Last time I went out full speed was in Econ River at 16mph

[@emmyspop]

Thanks for all the great videos Erick. I have the exact same setup and notice that the motor is too low in the water, spray in the boat etc, have you had any issues? the transom on mine is 13"

[@ErickMartinSucre]

I had a little but of ventilation, but since I installed a hydrofoil, no issues at all.

[@emmyspop]

Okay thanks@@ErickMartinSucre!

[@alexeyakulovich4737]

Erick, what is optimal lenth of paddle for SK385XL kaboat?

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Honestly, the longest you can find.

[@Mike-ew9zn]

Always the best!

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Thank you Mike 8)

[@marciananton9226]

Is this like a pontoon bladder? Does the floor ride above the water? Also how stable is the boat? Would I really be able to stand and fish?

[@ErickMartinSucre]

No, this one has a flat bottom that rides on the water. It is stable to stand as long as the water isn't choppy

[@Karkawry1970]

Looking good Eric....🚣🏿‍♂️

[@ErickMartinSucre]

I appreciate it 8)

[@danmrfld4802]

I'm sold on this one, Going to preorder the 2021 version. Thanks for helping me spend my stimulus! Keep up the good work

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Hahaha!! Glad I can be of help 8)

[@danmrfld4802]

@@ErickMartinSucre just found out I can take a 30 minute drive to boise and save 200 on shipping.

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Woot woot!! That's the cherry 🍒 on top right there

[@danmrfld4802]

@@ErickMartinSucre what size shaft would you recommend? 15 20?

[@ErickMartinSucre]

If its an inflatable, 15 inch short shaft

[@vinhha6073]

This is my Eric...👍👍❤️❤️❤️... I love the way it look.. Eric that with 6hp.. if you out your 9.9 hp on it.... lol lol.... 🤪🤪🤪🤪.... like a jet baby...

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Haha!! SOmeone suggested I make a video with the Kaboat and the new motor. I think it's crazy but I'll do it. I think it'll be fun to make. I Gotta do the break-in to the motor soon.

[@joelkopinsky5690]

Good review of the Kaboat, I enjoyed it!!

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Glad you liked it and thanks for watching

[@FeldwebelWolfenstool]

I've got a green one. The first thing that impressed me, right off the bat, was the build quality.

[@ErickMartinSucre]

I agree, it is a tough little boat.

[@marciananton9226]

This boat is quite heavy to me. What is the best way to pack it up and get it in your vehicle?

[@ErickMartinSucre]

My recommendation would be to remove the airdeck floor and fold the boat without it. This should reduce the weight a bit and may help you fold it properly. I use an suv, used to own a prius, I open the hatch and lay down a blanket on the right side with seats down. I place the boat where the blanket it, slide it, from passenger door I'll pull it inward and that's it.

[@marciananton9226]

​@@ErickMartinSucreyeah, I usually keep the floor in it. That may help. I will try that.

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Awesome 👌

[@danivibesMiami]

Can you put a pool noodle under the floor to tackle those swells if I'm cruising in biscayne national park?

[@ErickMartinSucre]

The space is very tight so make sure it isn't a very thick noodle

[@danivibesMiami]

@@ErickMartinSucre are you on Instagram?

[@ErickMartinSucre]

I have one but I am barely on it. I'm mostly active here and "The Muddy Feet Oasis" Facebook group

[@richarddevaottien7724]

Because I'm a perfectionist, I'd put a nice big stainless steel foil on that sweet little 4 stroke. Nice cheerful video, Erick.

[@ErickMartinSucre]

I ended up using a hydrofoil for my 9.8 Tohatsu.

[@scottp4062]

Love your videos - thank you! Could you please do a test in the 385 with your bigger 9.x HP, including maybe with one passenger?!

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Thank you! It is not likely I'll be able to do it but with that set up, you can go 15mph with someone with you easily.

[@marciananton9226]

What length is the paddle you are using?

[@ErickMartinSucre]

96 inches. I went to Academy Sports and took the longest one I could find.

[@vinhha6073]

Erick I think I buy this , but can you give me the wheel set intro..??? ... thanks Erick

[@ErickMartinSucre]

As in a video showing how they work? Or a simple explanation? They are basic wheels really, nothing fancy.

[@adventuresmadeeasyllc6032]

What HP motor are you using on this one? Thanks. :)

[@ErickMartinSucre]

That's my 6hp Tohatsu.

[@shawnboyl]

I was going to look at more of the regular SIBs by Saturn because of having little ones, but the smile and happiness on this Kaboat make me question if I don’t want this. Will it fit 2 adults and 2 kids?

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Maybe 3 people, but 4 it would be tight

[@shawnboyl]

@@ErickMartinSucre will my face be that happy on the FB365 as yours was on this kaboat?

[@ErickMartinSucre]

@@shawnboyl Yes. What makes me happy is being in the water like that. There's something about being in the water, not everyone can do it or are willing to do it and yet we do. Inflatables make it super easy.

[@travisrolando8205]

I can definitely see why you fell in love with this sweet looking boat so quickly! Looks like you got out on the lake at the right time brother! I love how super excited you were too!

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Gosh, this thing was so awesome man and I own it, it is not loaded or borrowed for a review but own it, haha!!

[@travisrolando8205]

@@ErickMartinSucre Nnnnniiccceee man! Haha I looovvee that you own this boat! I wish I had one too!

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Love this thing yeah

[@travisrolando8205]

@@ErickMartinSucre You sure do, and that's always a good thing too! I wish I had a boat like that too!

[@roadcollector5471]

How much horsepower can I move from a SUV to an inflatable boat without getting a hernia?

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Hehe! I'll say a Tohatsu 9.8hp. It is 80 pounds. I prefer the 6hp Tohatsu or Mercury because it is 60 pounds and easy to manage. If you happen to bring people with you then maybe a 9.8hp will do.

[@user-ktm890rider]

Erick how’s the koboat holding up are the seams welded on that model?

[@ErickMartinSucre]

I purchased this one 4 years ago before they introduced heat-welded seams. I beat the crap out of this one still and holding nicely. It's my favorite so far that I own.

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Sells like hot cakes so my model may be out of stock.

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Took it on a river trip back in June. kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZqG5hKSfermgjbs

[@user-ktm890rider]

@@ErickMartinSucre thanks for the reply Boats to go have the grey version for pre order now I’m also looking at the Saturn site there’s a new Triton model out 😎🍻

[@ErickMartinSucre]

@@user-ktm890rider Triton model is the same as heat-welded seam. It does come with a cool emblem though.

[@ncwarrior62]

Nice lil boat Bud!! Looks like a handy size!!!

[@ErickMartinSucre]

I love this one. It is narrow but long. 13 feet long to be exact.

[@rchapoteau]

Would you feel comfortable standing up in that while it’s in the water?

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Yes, do it all the time in calm waters.

[@bgaviator]

I want the 13’ but I’m trying to get the Triton model but SaturnRafts says sold out and no one from that web site is writing me back to let me know when they may be back in stock 😞

[@ErickMartinSucre]

I spoke with the folks at boatstogo, Saturnrafts and boatstogo work together, and they said that manufacturing and shipping has been held back since the Rona and the tariffs.

[@josephbutler4925]

What if I want to fish??

[@ErickMartinSucre]

You can fish on these just fine. Some people put a piece of gym mat on the floor to lay down their fishing gear.

[@josephbutler4925]

@@ErickMartinSucre Thanks Erik!!

[@ErickMartinSucre]

@@josephbutler4925 Anytime!

[@sharonlemle1241]

Love your videos Erick! Your enthusiasm always makes me smile! Cool boat! I just bought a 12.5 Bris and looking to power it with a 20hp (25hp is max for boat). Do you think a 20hp would be to overpowering?

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Hello and thank you for the compliment. 20hp is fine, your main concern now is the weight of the motor. If you plan on using a trailer you won't have to worry about weight, but if you plan on folding and unfolding the boat without a trailer I'll say get a lighter model like a Tohatsu 9.8hp

[@Ibarra941]

Nice! What a great choice of Kaboat ! I can’t wait to get back on the water , unfortunately the boating season is closed until summer

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Thanks for watching and that sucks that the season doesn't open for you until summer.

[@stephenhouse6194]

I am getting ready to purchase this boat and wanted to see where you got the wheels from. The wheels that can be purchased from the company are to big and look like they get in the way when in the up position.

[@ErickMartinSucre]

These are the ones I got amzn.to/2O28rNW They work ok on the ground but not on sand.

[@FeldwebelWolfenstool]

....with solid-type wheels, you don't have to struggle as much, like with the inflatable tires...when you push them underwater to lock them to get back on land...

[@Davidslavik]

Eric, I have a Honda 2.3. I want a kaboat for fishing/camping for two, ocean and lakes. Do you recommend the 396 or 385? Standing up stability? Room for gear, people, dog? Thx

[@ErickMartinSucre]

385 all the way. Bigger bladders give better stability.

[@Davidslavik]

@@ErickMartinSucre thanks Eric! 385 it is! 👍

[@ErickMartinSucre]

You'll love it. It can also handle a 10hp outboard.

[@Davidslavik]

@@ErickMartinSucre it looks like you have a long shaft? why not a short shaft?

[@ErickMartinSucre]

It's a short shaft

[@outdooradventureswithjason6275]

Just wanted to thank you for my new kaboat, lol. Congratulations bro I know you waited a minute for that.

[@ErickMartinSucre]

I'm keeping this one, however, you'll be using it as well with its own outboard no less.

[@10001694]

Very nice boat. Why do you keep the FL number on the motor? Do you have any issues with FWC when you use the motor on another boat?

[@ErickMartinSucre]

I've had a few encounters with them before yes.

[@yuszainimohdyusop6920]

Boss,,any footage in sea at choppy water?😁

[@ErickMartinSucre]

None at the moment since it requires all of my concentration to keep the boat moving forward. Last time I was in choppy water was crossing the Tampa Bay channel and it was wave after wave trying to cross it.

[@yuszainimohdyusop6920]

@@ErickMartinSucre the boat can manage?

[@ErickMartinSucre]

It can but you must concentrate i kid you not. One false move and you get flipped upside down. Always be mindful of the weather

[@yuszainimohdyusop6920]

@@ErickMartinSucre boss,,in USA easy to get used inflatable boats n ship to Singapore 🇸🇬?😁

[@ErickMartinSucre]

@@yuszainimohdyusop6920 I'll be lying to you if I said I knew but I don't, sorry.

[@thatonebeone]

love the vides helps me out getting what i want... now i just need to know how to get it registered to DMV hows that process go? online or in person? i hate going to DMV in person its all day thing just to get a little thing done now days.. thanks

[@ErickMartinSucre]

I can tell you. I got to their site and made an appointment. I brought with me the receipt of the boat purchase and a bill of sale. You will need both the receipt and bill of sale. Once you go to the DMV on your appointed time, you tell the clerk yiu want to register your boat. It cost about 35 bucks or so.

[@thatonebeone]

@@ErickMartinSucre you think this set up with 6hp is good for ocean or best to get a 8hp ? ill be using this for ocean and bay mostly but i do like the option to go to ocean just about 6 miles or so away from shore

[@ErickMartinSucre]

@@thatonebeone Yes, very much so actually. a 6hp will do nicely with just you in it. With 2 people in it, it may struggle a bit.

[@thatonebeone]

@@ErickMartinSucre yeah im in a pickle now between 6hp and 8hp..my plan was going 6hp from the looks of it how fast you going and you are a bigger guy then me and with me alone and my minimal fishing gear just 2 or 3 poles,bottles of water, battery pack that will be like 3 pounds and fish finder ,3.2 gallon gas tank...i should get decent speeds with this slim style boat so its less drag unlike the other wider style boats.. this guy here at my place has a boat 13 foot and using a 3.5hp and looks like hes doing some decent speeds and thats what my set up will be like but with 385xl and 6hp it should perform better then his set up a bit more kzbin.info/www/bejne/f5jJoXuafKl1a9E

[@ErickMartinSucre]

@@thatonebeone 6Yeah, you should be good with the 6hp, but if you ever plan to bring someone from time to time it won't go very fast.

[@jabberwocky3598]

How does it handle and track if you only paddle it like kayak?

[@ErickMartinSucre]

It tracks great but since you have a motor and gas tank in it, the weight makes slow with just paddles. In open water, you'll want to use the paddles assist with the motor on. It works great when doing down river and all you do is direct the kaboat .

[@jabberwocky3598]

@@ErickMartinSucre but if I wanted to take it on small lakes and just use the double bladed paddles with no motor or gas tanks it will track well?

[@ErickMartinSucre]

It will without a problem, it just won't go too fast like a regular kayak would

[@Frank020]

Hi what's too speed? Would you take the 14 ft non-xl open ocean small swell day? Close to coast of course.

[@ErickMartinSucre]

With my Tohatsu 6hp 4 Stroke and a 7.8x7 prop 14mph max but I cruise mostly at 12mph so the engine isn't always revving hard

[@Frank020]

@@ErickMartinSucre hi. Do I need a larger prop for the 14ft. Non XL standard kboat. Currently 2.5 hp.

[@ErickMartinSucre]

With a 2.5 you can't do much. There are slow no matter what

[@Frank020]

@@ErickMartinSucre yes I need 5hp minimum. But, is that a larger prop? with more blades?

[@trenchbaibi]

Would you take offshore?

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Yes I would. This one, having larger bladders than the SK396, give you confidence in the water. Just keep in mind not to take it out during rough weather.

[@marciananton9226]

​@ErickMartinSucre. It is a guy on youtube that takes his 14 footer out on big water and catches sharks and other big fish.

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Nice!

[@1d022clb]

I like that bro, hey off question. I'm ordering a inflatable for fishing lakes around me. Do you think its safe in Salt water with sharks?

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Should be fire. I take my inflatables to the ocean all the time. Just don't be teasing the sharks and they usually leave you alone.

[@1d022clb]

@@ErickMartinSucre cool bro thanks

[@ErickMartinSucre]

@@1d022clb Anytime!

[@Cimmeron]

Hey. Great vid. I think I understand the kaboat now. What is your “dinghy-boat” I assume it’s another inflatable? Why can this thing take you to places the other one can’t? Cheers!

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Hello Sean and thank you for dropping such great questions to which I have answers. My main boat is a Saturn BB290, it has a keel, it's 9.6 feet long but it is twice as wide as my new Kaboat. Being wide and having a keel makes it difficult to travel in narrow waterways and shallow waters. With this kaboat I can reach these places with ease and in turn, will add more videos to my roster. Hope this answers your question,

[@ДАЙВИНГОХОТАРЫБАЛКА]

Хорошо идёт

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Да, эта маленькая лодка очень хорошо движется.

[@ДАЙВИНГОХОТАРЫБАЛКА]

Эрик, привет. На мой взгляд эта лучше лодка,чем была у тебя

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Я согласен. Я планирую использовать это очень часто

[@conwaykitty7399]

why did you burn a giant krabby patty gummy???

[@ErickMartinSucre]

It was fun! PacMac was super nice to showcase part of my video to his audience. I did get to take a bite out of it though.

[@conwaykitty7399]

@@ErickMartinSucre oh that does sound fun!!! was it tasty? also nice to meet you too :)

[@ErickMartinSucre]

I bit chewy but delicious lol

[@conwaykitty7399]

who are you

[@ErickMartinSucre]

Hi! Name's Erick, nice to meet you