Matching a inflatable non rigid Zodiac Cadet Fastroller 285 ACTI-V 2010 against a inflatable rigid Zodiac ProJet 350 2008 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 — Zodiac Cadet Fastroller 285 ACTI-V 2010 at 9,3 ft versus Zodiac ProJet 350 2008 at 11,0 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Zodiac ProJet 350 2008 tips the scales at 661 lbs — 584 lbs less than the Zodiac Cadet Fastroller 285 ACTI-V 2010 at 77 lbs. That difference is meaningful if you're working within a half-ton or three-quarter-ton truck's tow rating, especially once you factor in a motor, gear, and fuel.

The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 98 hp, the Zodiac ProJet 350 2008 has a 90-hp advantage over the Zodiac Cadet Fastroller 285 ACTI-V 2010's 8-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.

Both boats are rated for 4 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 Zodiac ProJet 350 2008 comes in at 7 lbs per hp versus 10 lbs per hp for the Zodiac Cadet Fastroller 285 ACTI-V 2010. 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.

Top speed is rated at 45 mph for the Zodiac ProJet 350 2008 and 20 mph for the Zodiac Cadet Fastroller 285 ACTI-V 2010.