How to Set Up the Carbon Pro 365 Inflatable Boat

How to Set Up the Carbon Pro 365 Inflatable Boat

πŸ• Read time: 6–7 minutes

Setting up your Boatworld Carbon Pro 365 is easy when you know the steps. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the full process covered in the video below. Whether it's your first inflatable boat or you're upgrading, this article gives you all the details you need to get water-ready.

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What Comes in the Boxes

Two Boxes, Everything You Need

The Carbon Pro 365 is delivered in two separate boxes:

  • The Boat Box contains the boat itself, oars, manual pump, seats, repair kit and user manual.
  • The Floor Box holds the wooden floor panels and support bars.

πŸ’‘ Pro Tip: Using an electric pump, like the Boatworld 12V Electric Pump, will save you significant time and effort. You can set it to the exact pressure (0.25 BAR) to ensure perfect inflation without any guesswork.

❗ Key Detail: It's a good habit to unpack and check that all parts are present and correct as soon as your boat arrives. This ensures you're not caught short when you get to the water's edge.



Unboxing and Laying Out the Boat

  1. Open the boat box and remove all accessories.
  2. Place the oars, pump, repair kit and other items neatly aside.
  3. With two people, lift the boat out of the box and lay it out on a clean, flat surface.
  4. Unroll it fully and remove all protective packaging.

⚠️ Warning: Always set up your boat on a surface free from sharp stones, glass, or other debris that could puncture the material. A groundsheet or old tarpaulin can provide extra protection.

❗ Key Detail: If it’s the first time out of the box, the boat material may have some tight creases from being packed. These will smooth out completely once the boat is inflated.



Partially Inflate the Main Tubes

  1. Locate the inflation valves along the sides of the boat.
  2. Check the centre pin is sprung outwards – this keeps air from escaping when the hose is removed.
  3. Connect the hose by lining up the prongs and turning clockwise to lock.
  4. Inflate each tube to about 1/4 pressure, just enough for the boat to hold its shape.

❗ Key Detail: Partially inflating the tubes gives the boat its basic structure, making it much easier to position and fit the floor panels correctly.



Installing the Floor

  1. Open the floor box and remove the carry bag.
  2. Take out the first wooden section (the bow panel) and place it at the front of the boat.
  3. Tuck the edges under the tubes and align it so the valve hole matches the keel valve below.
  4. Next, install the stern (rear) panel:
    • Identify it by the semi-circular cut-out for the drain bung.
    • Ribbed side should face upwards.
    • Slide it under the transom blocks and align the edges.

  1. Add the middle floor sections one at a time:
    • Slot the tongue of each floor into the previous panel’s groove.
    • The final floor may need a gentle push to slot in fully.

  1. Join the centre sections:
    • Lift both ends slightly to create a tent shape.
    • Align and connect the grooves.
    • Press down slowly and evenly.
   

⚠️ Warning: Keep your fingers clear of the aluminium edges when pushing the floor sections down to avoid pinching them. Don't use excessive force or a hammer to get the panels in place, as you could damage the floor or the boat material.

  1. Fit the support bars:
    1. These go across the floor joints
    2. Tilt the bar, slide under the lip, then push down until secure.

Final Inflation and Seat Installation

  1. Inflate the main tubes fully to 0.25 BAR (3.6–4 PSI).
  2. As you do this, fit the bench seats:
    • Slide each seat onto the side rails.
    • Adjust to suit your sitting position.
  3. Screw the valve caps on tightly.
  4. Inflate the keel to the same pressure as the tubes (0.25 BAR / 3.6-4 PSI).

⚠️ Warning: Air pressure increases in direct sunlight and heat. If inflating on a very hot day, inflate to slightly under the recommended pressure and let the sun warm it up. Check the pressure again before heading out. Never over-inflate.

❗ Key Detail: Don't skip inflating the keel! It's essential for the boat's performance, helping it to cut through the water (plane) more efficiently and track straighter, especially when powered by an outboard.




Fitting the Oars

  1. Connect both ends of each oar and lock them into place.
  2. Unscrew the cap on each rowlock and slide the oar collar onto the bolt.
  3. Tighten the cap and slot the blade into the oar holder.
  4. Alternatively, store the oars on the inside holders for extra seating space.

Final Checks Before You Launch

Ready to Go?

  1. If using an outboard, lift and clamp it securely to the transom. The Carbon Pro 365 supports up to a 20hp engine.
  2. Secure your external fuel tank using the straps provided on the boat floor.

Check for Air Loss

  • Before heading to the water, inflate the boat fully and leave it for a couple of hours.
  • If you notice any pressure loss, use the valve spanner from the repair kit to gently tighten any loose valves.

πŸ’‘ Pro Tip: Always do a quick visual check of your boat, engine, and safety gear before heading out. It's better to be safe than soggy!

❗ Key Detail: The engine clamps should be tightened onto the transom plate (the metal or plastic pad). This plate is designed to protect the wooden transom from the pressure and vibration of the outboard.

General Care & Maintenance

Keeping Your Carbon Pro in Top Shape

Boatworld inflatable boats can be kept inflated or stored deflated in their carry bag. Here’s how to look after yours:

If Keeping the Boat Inflated Outdoors:

  • Always upturn the boat when not in use to prevent water pooling.
  • Do not leave the boat in direct sunlight for long periods.
  • We recommend covering the boat with a boat cover to protect it from UV and weather damage.

If Storing the Boat Deflated:

  1. Remove all accessories including seats, oars and any engine brackets.
  2. Store in the carry bag provided.
  3. Screw the caps back onto the rowlock bolts to prevent damage when rolling.
  4. Once deflated, ensure all valves are sealed and components secured.

Cleaning & Protection:

  • Avoid contact with fuel, solvents or household cleaning products.
  • Rinse regularly with fresh water and a suitable cleaner (we recommend Silky Marine or August Race).
  • Use UV protection sprays or polishes to help extend the life of the material.
  • Always rinse off salt, sand or debris after use, especially around the transom, valves and floor joints.
  • Avoid high-pressure jet washers – a soft sponge or nylon brush is ideal.

Other Tips:

  • Deal with any lifting seams, D-rings or mounts promptly to avoid further issues.
  • Take care when storing – rodents can damage inflatable materials.
   

Want to Learn More?

For a downloadable manual, more tips, or setup guides for other boats, check out the links below:

       πŸ“˜ Read the full manual here
   
       πŸ›Ά View the Boatworld Carbon Pro 365
   
       πŸ” Or explore our full Knowledge Hub
   

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