Open Reversible Life Raft
An open reversible life raft has no canopy and is built symmetrically so it floats and functions the same way up or down, removing the need to right it after inflation, a simplification that trades weather protection and full SOLAS equipment for lower weight, lower cost and fast deployment on smaller craft.
Typical models.
One well-documented model per manufacturer — with photo, key figures and datasheet details on the model page.
What to check on an Open Reversible Life Raft.
78 models from 7 manufacturers. Below: the manufacturers at a glance and the full model list.
What sets an open reversible raft apart
Most inflatable life rafts have a canopy and a defined top and bottom, and a righting strap is fitted because an inflated raft that lands upside down must be turned over by a survivor in the water. A reversible raft avoids that problem by being symmetrical: the buoyancy tubes and floor are shaped so the raft supports its occupants and stays stable whichever side lands uppermost. Without a canopy there is no weather protection and no space for the full ration and signalling pack fitted to a covered SOLAS raft, so this type is typically used on fishing vessels, workboats and other craft where regulation does not call for a fully equipped SOLAS raft.
Legend
- perimeter grab lines (both faces)
- inflatable buoyancy tube
- ballast pockets (both faces, for stability)
- sea painter / sea anchor
- CO2 inflation cylinder
Main components
Buoyancy tubes
Two or more superimposed tubular chambers, each independently inflated, so a puncture in one chamber still leaves enough buoyancy to support the rated capacity.
Floor
A single or double skin floor, sometimes without the insulating air pocket used in canopied rafts, since the reversible design keeps cost and weight down.
Read the full guide
Inflation system
A CO2 or CO2/nitrogen cylinder triggered by a hydrostatic release unit or a painter line pull, inflating both tube chambers through a common or dual manifold.
Painter line and boarding aids
A painter line for securing the raft to the vessel during launch and for triggering inflation, plus boarding handles or a light boarding ladder along the tube.
Selection and sizing
- Rated capacity in persons, driven by the vessel's crew complement plus a margin.
- Water temperature and exposure risk on the operating area, since an open raft gives no shelter from wind, spray or sun.
- Stowage weight and cradle type, since reversible rafts are often chosen specifically because they are lighter than a canopied equivalent of the same capacity.
- Equipment pack level, where regulation allows a reduced pack rather than full SOLAS-A provisioning.
Regulations and class
Open reversible rafts generally fall outside full SOLAS passenger and cargo ship carriage requirements and are instead accepted under fishing vessel safety rules, national small craft regulation or as supplementary equipment. Where fitted in place of a SOLAS raft, flag administration approval is required, since SOLAS Ch. III sets minimum equipment and canopy requirements that this design does not meet. Servicing intervals still apply, typically annual, at a shore station approved for the specific raft manufacturer.
Typical faults
| Fault | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Painter line not secured to a strong point before launch | Raft drifts away empty before survivors can board |
| Hydrostatic release unit past its expiry date | Raft fails to auto-release if the vessel sinks before manual launch |
| Chamber puncture from chafing against the stowage cradle | Reduced buoyancy margin, raft settles low with a full load |
| UV degradation of fabric on rafts stowed in the open | Loss of tensile strength, tube failure under load |
What to look for in a supplier
- Manufacturer approval covering the specific capacity and pack level required for the vessel's operating area.
- A servicing network with a station reachable from the vessel's normal ports of call, since a raft due for service cannot sail.
- Clear documentation of what the equipment pack does and does not include, so the crew is not caught assuming SOLAS-level provisioning.
- Cradle and hydrostatic release unit compatibility confirmed for the exact raft model, not assumed from a similar type.
Because an open reversible raft has no canopy, briefing new crew that this is a deliberate design choice and not a stripped-down SOLAS raft avoids a dangerous surprise if it is ever needed in cold or exposed conditions.
Models in this type.
The best-documented model of each manufacturer first, then the next — 78 of 78 models in Open Reversible Life Raft. Every row links to full specifications, documents and service notes.
Manufacturers.
All 7 manufacturers with models of Open Reversible Life Raft. Names with a manufacturer page open it; the others open a search across the full library.
All manufacturers in the libraryAlso in Life Rafts.
The other equipment types in this category.
Write to us about this model — the answer comes by e-mail.
Name the make and the model and what the job is: a spare, a service call, a second opinion on a data sheet. We answer by e-mail.
No details at hand? A photo of the rating plate or the part is enough — simply attach it to the request.
Questions that come up with this equipment.
Is Open Reversible Life Raft data free?
Yes. Every model page, every guide and every datasheet for this type is readable without an account. An account adds saved searches and requests, nothing is taken away.
My model is missing — what now?
Send us the nameplate. We identify it by hand, add it to the library, and if you need a part or a service, the request is already on our desk.
Can you source a Open Reversible Life Raft part?
Yes. Tell us the manufacturer, the model and what you need — a person reads every request and replies by e-mail.