Why Are Buyers Using Floating Platforms as Boarding Aids?

Ask most people what a floating swim deck is for, and they’ll say swimming. Some people also use it for reading and sunbathing. However, you will also see sailors are using inflatable platforms for a completely different reason. It is not related to recreation. They are using these inflatable platforms for boarding needs.

The Boarding Issue That Persists

Powerboat owners generally don’t think about boarding problems. Why? They already have their swim steps, boarding ladders, and transom platforms in place. Stepping off and stepping back on is simple for them.

With those using sailboats, it is different. The freeboard on most cruising sailboats is 2-4 feet above the waterline. On larger vessels, it can be more. The swim steps are often narrow, angled, or positioned awkwardly. So, boarding from a dinghy or tender is often an awkward job, more so in choppy waters. For people with limited mobility or with young children abroad, it can be a problem. A floating platform kept alongside the sailboat makes things simpler. 

Inflatable platforms are ideal for boarding.

A floating swim platform has features that make it versatile. The large surface area, comfortable decking, and easy inflation make it ideal as a boarding aid. Here are the features you should check:

● A quality inflatable platform sits just at the waterline. So, users can get the scope to balance themselves before boarding a vessel.

● Platforms with high-pressure drop-stitch construction and thick sidewalls cope with body weight well. You deal with a firm, non-wobbly surface to stand on before boarding the main vessel.

● Some models have D-rings on the corners. You can find units with stainless-steel attachment points for flush connection to a boat hull. 

● The deck surface should be made of a non-slip material.

Other uses for floating platforms

Apart from the boarding use case, sailors also use inflatable platforms for other needs:

● They use these platforms to load gear, groceries, or equipment from a tender to the main boat. It helps when there is a stable intermediate platform. They can put everything on the platform first, stabilize it, then pass it up. Thai can be useful for aged users who like things in a relaxed, laid-back way.

● These floating decks are very useful when they want to check the hull and carry out boat repair. 

● Some sailors love taking their pets to the water. Transferring a large-sized dog from a balanced platform to the boat is easier. Some pets can become stressed if the floating platform is unstable.

Things to Check Before Getting a Swim Platform

Over the years, these inflatable swim decks have improved, and durability has improved, too. Current drop-stitch construction produces platforms that feel almost rigid underfoot. These models hold pressure reliably over full days of use. You can deflate and inflate them within a few minutes without exhausting yourself!

Final Thoughts

When buying a floating swim deck or platform, check out the key features and warranty offered by the brand. The models offered by furthercustoms score very well in these aspects.