The Bluefin Cruise Lite 11.4 is a top-tier inflatable paddleboard designed for beginners who want to explore, tour, and travel on the water.
This board promises a blend of stability, design, performance, and quality, making it a popular choice among newcomers to the sport.
In this detailed review, we will dive into every aspect of the Bluefin Cruise Lite 11.4 to help you decide if this is the right paddleboard for you.
Table of Contents
- 1 📹 Video
- 2 🔄 How Did the Bluefin Cruise Lite 11.4 Change Over Time?
- 2.1 👍👎 Pro & Con
- 2.2 🛠 Built & Material
- 2.3 ⚖️ Weight Limit
- 2.4 🏄♂️ Intended Use & Riding Characteristics
- 2.5 🎨 Design
- 2.6 ⭐ Features
- 2.7 🎒 Accessory
- 2.8 💬 FAQ
- 2.9 How long does it take to inflate the Bluefin Cruise Lite 11.4?
- 2.10 What pressure should I inflate the Bluefin Cruise Lite 11.4 to?
- 2.11 Is the Bluefin Cruise Lite 11.4 good for beginners?
- 2.12 What’s the weight limit of the Bluefin Cruise Lite 11.4?
- 2.13 Conclusion
📹 Video
📊 Data & Facts
| Board Type | Inflatable (iSUP) |
|---|---|
| Brand | Bluefin |
| Skill Level | Beginner |
| Price Range | Upper Mid-range |
| Intended Use | Exploring, Touring, Travel |
| Maximum Paddler Weight | 150 kg (330 lbs) |
| Length | 11’4” (345 cm) |
| Width | 30” (76 cm) |
| Thickness | 4” (10 cm) |
| Weight | 7.6kg (16.7lbs) |
| Accessories | Five-piece paddle Leash Double-action pump Center fin Repair kit Waterproof phone case Warranty instructions Bag |
🔄 How Did the Bluefin Cruise Lite 11.4 Change Over Time?
The Bluefin Cruise Lite 11.4 has seen significant improvements in its design and features over the years:
- Compactness: The current model is highly compact, making it easier to store and transport.
- Accessory Quality: The accessories have been upgraded for better functionality and durability.
- Design Updates: The board now comes in vibrant color options, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.
- Performance Enhancements: The new model boasts better stability and maneuverability, making it more beginner-friendly.
👍👎 Pro & Con
Pros
- High Stability: Rated at 9.5 for stability, making it ideal for beginners.
- Compact and Lightweight: Easy to carry and store, thanks to its 7.6 kg weight.
- Comprehensive Accessories: Includes everything needed to get started on the water.
- Durable Build: Made with high-quality materials for long-lasting use.
- Attractive Design: Available in appealing color combinations.
Cons
- Small Pump: The included pump is compact but can be uncomfortable to use due to its size.
- Heavy Paddle: The five-piece paddle is slightly heavy and may be cumbersome for some users.
- Paddle Clip Placement: The clip on the paddle can be inconveniently placed, affecting hand positioning.
🛠 Built & Material
The Bluefin Cruise Lite 11.4 is constructed using high-quality, durable materials to ensure longevity and performance. The board features:
- ESL Fusion-Layer Construction: This innovative technology fuses a drop-stitch core with UV-resistant PVC, creating a lightweight yet exceptionally stable board.
- UV-Resistant PVC: Ensures that the board withstands prolonged exposure to sunlight without degrading.
- Drop-Stitch Core: Densely interconnected composite threads provide superior stability.
⚖️ Weight Limit
The Bluefin Cruise Lite 11.4 supports a maximum paddler weight of 150 kg (330 lbs).
However, for optimal performance, it is recommended to stay within 70-80% of this limit. This ensures the board maintains its desired riding characteristics and stability.
🏄♂️ Intended Use & Riding Characteristics
The Bluefin Cruise Lite 11.4 is designed for various activities, including exploring, touring, and travel. Its performance on the water is characterized by:
- Excellent Stability: Ideal for beginners who need a stable platform to gain confidence.
- Good Maneuverability: Handles well in different water conditions, making it versatile for various activities.
- Easy Handling: Lightweight design allows for easy carrying and setup.
🎨 Design
The Bluefin Cruise Lite 11.4 is available in two color combinations: Sunburst-Orange and Horizon-Blue. The design features include:
- Double-Textured Deck Pad: Provides additional grip and repels water effectively.
- Multiple Handles: Three handles (middle, front, and back) for easy lifting and carrying.
- Bungee Cord System: Concealed attachment points for a sleek look and practical storage.
- Action Cam Mount: Located at the front for capturing your adventures.
⭐ Features
The Bluefin Cruise Lite 11.4 comes with several notable features:
- Deckpad with Kickpad: Enhances grip and comfort while paddling.
- Multiple D-Rings: Five D-rings for attaching accessories, including a coiled leash.
- Three Removable Fins: Provides stability and maneuverability, with a convenient Smartlock system for easy installation.
- Removable Cargo Net: Ideal for storing gear securely on the board.
- Action Cam Holders: Three mounts for capturing your paddling experiences.
🎒 Accessory
The Bluefin Cruise Lite 11.4 package includes:
- Manual: Detailed guide for setup and maintenance.
- SUP Backpack: Waterproof and spacious, with compartments for all accessories.
- Five-Piece Carbon Paddle: Adjustable and sturdy, though slightly heavy.
- Dual-Action Pump: Compact and efficient, though small in size.
- Removable Center Fin: Provides stability and is easy to install.
- Coiled Leash: Keeps the board close in case of a fall.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Protects your phone while allowing touch screen functionality.
- Repair Kit: Includes PVC patches and a valve wrench for minor repairs.
💬 FAQ
How long does it take to inflate the Bluefin Cruise Lite 11.4?
It takes approximately 5 minutes to inflate the board to 15 psi, with an additional 2-3 minutes to reach the maximum pressure of 18 psi.
What pressure should I inflate the Bluefin Cruise Lite 11.4 to?
The recommended pressure is between 15-18 psi for optimal rigidity and performance.
Is the Bluefin Cruise Lite 11.4 good for beginners?
Yes, the Bluefin Cruise Lite 11.4 is an excellent choice for beginners due to its stability, ease of use, and comprehensive accessory package.
What’s the weight limit of the Bluefin Cruise Lite 11.4?
The board supports a maximum paddler weight of 150 kg (330 lbs). For best performance, it is recommended to stay within 70-80% of this limit.
Conclusion
The Bluefin Cruise Lite 11.4 is a standout inflatable paddleboard that offers a great balance of stability, performance, and design.
It’s an ideal choice for beginners looking to explore, tour, and travel on the water. With its lightweight build, comprehensive accessory package, and attractive design, this board provides excellent value for its price.
Despite minor drawbacks like the small pump and heavy paddle, the overall quality and functionality of the Bluefin Cruise Lite 11.4 make it a worthy investment for anyone serious about paddleboarding.
