16' Inflatable Boats SD488

16' SATURN SD488 Heavy-Duty Inflatable Motor Boats with Aluminum Floor.

Great Inflatable Boat for Fire and Emergency Rescues, for Floods and Swiftwaters operations.

NEW: The latest 2025 model SD488 V2 PRO now comes equipped with an aluminum transom, 4 rod holder mounts, built-in Velcro MOLLE system, rowing oarlocks, a convenient cargo area on top of the tubes, and multiple D-rings all over!

Introducing the robust 16' SATURN SD488 Heavy-Duty Inflatable Motor Boat featuring an aluminum floor for unparalleled stability and strength. The latest model is equipped with 5 air chambers, setting a new standard in safety and reliability. Engineered with precision, the SD488 is the ideal choice for emergency services and regular use alike.

Designed for demanding rescue operations, including fire and emergency rescues, floods, and swiftwater operations, the SD488 boasts premium construction materials. Crafted from 1,100 Dtex heavy-duty PVC fabric with polyester support, this vessel offers exceptional resistance to tearing, tension, and breaking. Its 5-layer thick construction provides unparalleled durability, with an outer layer protecting against UV rays, ozone, and abrasion, while inner layers ensure optimal strength and adhesion.

For added protection, double layers of fabric at the bottom of the tubes and a rub-strake protector along the keel safeguard against sharp rocks and abrasive sand. The safety valve prevents excessive air pressure in the boat's chambers, ensuring peace of mind during critical operations.

Equipped with essential features, including a pair of emergency T-paddles, 3 aluminum bench seats, and soft carry handles, the SD488 combines functionality with convenience. Whether for rescue management operations or everyday use such as fishing, commercial operations, or pleasure cruising, the durability and safety of the SD488 make it an indispensable asset. Experience the unparalleled performance of the SATURN SD488 for yourself.

Saturn inflatable boats come standard with a heavy-duty aluminum floor. Floor installation steps are here. Important warnings at bottom of this page.

Saturn inflatable boat used in rescue during flood.

Specifications:

• Separate internal air chambers.
• One-way drain valve with plug.
• All around, durable rubber strike.
• Safety valve to prevent over inflation.
• Front D-ring with integral lifting handle.
• Reliable Halkey-Roberts flat valves design.
• Double layer of fabric at the bottom of tubes.
• Deep inflatable V-keel with a rub strake protector.
• Heavy-duty aluminum floor with aluminum floor frames. 
• Extremely rigid, lightweight hull for excellent performance.
• 1100-denier reinforced PVC fabric with polyester support.
• Extra thick heavy-duty fiberglass reinforced plywood transom.
• Rowing oars removed due to wider size and 4th bench also removed to match other models.
• Equipment: repair kit, 2 carry bags, 1 set of T-paddles and 3 aluminum bench seats.
• Free, complimentary generic high-volume hand pump is included.
• For the list of optional available Accessories please click here.

Customer's videos of Saturn SD488 inflatable boats

Aluminum Floor Installation Instructions:

1. Review Installation Steps: For detailed installation instructions, please refer to the aluminum floor installation guide.
2. Inflating Boat Tubes and Keel: Before operating your boat in choppy waters, ensure that the boat tubes and keel are fully inflated to the maximum recommended pressure to prevent damage to the floorboards. For more information on air pressure, please consult this FAQ section. Underinflated tubes and keel can lead to aluminum floor cracking. Please see different FAQ for more info on that.
3. Preparing to Install Stringers: When installing the stringers, position the oars beneath the bottom of the boat to elevate the edges of the floorboards off the ground.
4. Installing Stringers: Stringers are designed to connect two adjacent main floorboards. Each main floorboard consists of smaller sections that are joined by C-channels at the edges. For optimal alignment, ensure the spaces between adjacent stringers do not line up with the joint lines between the smaller sections of each floorboard.

Quick Tip! Worried about the weight of a hard-floored boat? No need to strain your back! Pick up a foldable hand cart from any retail store to easily transport your folded boat. Even budget-friendly dolly movers work wonders for both folded and fully inflated boats. For extra ease, consider our dinghy dolly wheels—perfect for rolling your inflated boat across the shore and right into the water!