Matching a foldable Walker Bay 310 FTL 2011 against a inflatable rigid Walker Bay Air Floor 2012 means you're likely deciding between two genuinely different on-water experiences. Hull type shapes everything from ride quality and fuel burn to dock handling and resale trajectory.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Walker Bay 310 FTL 2011 at 10,2 ft versus Walker Bay Air Floor 2012 at 7,9 ft. At 119 lbs and 49 lbs respectively, both sit in a similar weight class — either should pair comfortably with most mid-size SUVs and half-ton trucks, though always confirm your specific tow rating with the motor added.
Both boats share a closely matched power ceiling — 8 hp for the Walker Bay 310 FTL 2011 and 6 hp for the Walker Bay Air Floor 2012. Real-world performance will come down more to which motor is actually bolted on, its load at the time, and whether it's a 4-stroke or 2-stroke setup.
Both boats are rated for 3 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.
At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Walker Bay Air Floor 2012 comes in at 8 lbs per hp versus 15 lbs per hp for the Walker Bay 310 FTL 2011. The lower the ratio the more explosive the acceleration — meaningful on a short RIB where bursts of speed, quick planing, and agility in surf or tight waterways define the experience.
The Walker Bay Air Floor 2012 has a documented top speed of 13 mph. Speed data wasn't available for the other model.
Bottom line: The Walker Bay 310 FTL 2011 at 10,2 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Walker Bay Air Floor 2012 at 7,9 ft wins on trailering ease, likely lower purchase price, and simpler docking — a solid choice for a buyer who wants more boat for less money.