interiors space

Model	Ext. Length	Approx. Int.space
Apex A-11	11'	21 square feet
Zodiac Yl 340R	11'2"	19
Avon R340	11'1"	18

The overall exterior lengths of inflatable boats are measured from tip to tip. Almost all manufacturers build boats with a long cone at the rear. This is a cheap method of finishing off the stern of the boat. However, this cone adds to the overall length without increasing buoyancy and the usable interior space of the boat and therefore can give a false impression of the usable capacity of the boat.
APEX® boats are constructed with rounded ends and therefore have a shorter exterior length than their major competitors. We build our boats with rounded ends despite the additional cost because we want our tough rubbing strake to extend around and protect the stern of the boat. This shorter length helps for storage on davit or dinghy racks while the usable interior space is actually larger.
When choosing a boat, look at the interior space of the models you are comparing.

rubbing strake
The rubbing strake is the tough rubber strip that goes around the boat to protect it against abrasions. It also protects any vessel to which the boat is being moored. Make sure that this straking is made of a thick tough material in a light color. Dark colors attract more heat and dirt, will deteriorate faster and can leave marks on other vessels. APEX® boats have a tough, raised, light gray strake for better protection.