Thinking of a way to make your pontoon boat more fun for your friends and family? A pontoon boat slide kit is your answer!
Having a pontoon water slide can add an element of fun for your kids while the adults enjoy their time. It can turn their time on your boat into a whole water park experience. Some options can be used by adults too.
But before you go and buy a pontoon boat slide kit, there are few important factors you need to be aware of, and this post will help highlight them for you, so stick around.
Types of Pontoon Boat Slides
There are two types of pontoon boat slides: fixed and inflatable. The fixed options are best for boats with upper decks. They’re usually made from fiberglass and are installed by professionals.
Since they’re accessible from the upper deck of the boat, fixed slides offer more height, which makes them more fun than their inflatable counterparts.
In addition, the upper deck provides a suitable area to use the slide safely. Fiberglass slides are durable and look chicer, in my opinion, than the inflatable ones.
If your boat doesn’t have an upper deck, many companies provide upper deck installation services. A great example here is J’S Upper Decks. They provide a great fiberglass pontoon slide kit for double-deckers.
Inflatable slides, on the other hand, are more common for pontoons than fixed slides, mainly because you can easily take them down when the time isn’t calling for it. You can store it in a compartment on your boat and assemble it at any time you need. Consider this one from RAVE Sports:
Things to Consider Before Buying One
To ensure that you and your family have the most fun out of your pontoon boat water slide, there are few aspects that you need to consider before making a purchase.
Capacity
You need to check the maximum weight capacity of the slide before buying. It might not be a problem if only kids will use the slide. But if you think adults would want to give it a try, too, then it’s better to pick one that has a larger maximum weight capacity to accommodate their weight.
Many problems can occur by not choosing the right weight capacity, from falling off or tearing off the slide to puncturing it by mistake.
Fixed slides can handle more weight than inflatable ones. Though, you need to check the weight restrictions with the installation company to avoid any future problems.
Also, check the desired length of the water slide. My simple rule here is the longer the slide, the more fun it is.
Material
The best material for inflatable water slides is PVC with UV resistant coating, which most pontoon boat slide kits are made of. PVC is waterproof and pretty durable. It can handle being in the water and the sun for hours.
You also want to choose a kit that is easy to inflate and deflate. If it’s going to take more than five to seven minutes to assemble, then it’s not worth your money nor your time.
Look for one that is easy to store on your boat. And you might as well choose a kit that comes with a pump.
As for fixed slides, virtually all models are built from durable materials that will last very long as long as you stick to their weight restrictions and safety guidelines.
Safety
Most slide kits are manufactured to ensure your family’s safety. They come with molded footsteps and handles for easy maneuvering in and out of the water. They also come with enough attachment points to hold the slide securely to your boat.
We recommend reading the instructions that come with the kit carefully before using the slide to avoid any accidents.
In case of purchasing a fixed water slide, go with a trusted, reputable installation service. They’ll know how to install the kit securely. The rest is on you; you’ll need to learn how to maintain it properly.
Maintenance Tips
Whether you’re buying an inflated or fixed pontoon boat slide, you’re going to pay good money, so it’s important to carry out maintenance regularly to ensure your investment lasts long.
Inflatable Slides
When you’re not using your inflatable slide, deflate it completely and make sure there is no air left inside. Then, fold it up and store it in a dry area on your boat. You can also use an insect and rodent-proof storage bag for extra protection.
Always wait for it to dry completely before storing it to prevent mold from building up. Also, store it away from the sun, even if it has a UV-resistant coating. It already spends a long time in the sun while being used. We don’t want to over-exhaust it.
Before storing it for the winter, give it a good wash with soapy water. Also, check for any damage or tears. We recommend spraying it with TriNova UV Protectant Spray. This will keep it looking brand new and help protect it.
Fixed Slides
It’s easier to take care of fiberglass slides than PVC slides. All you have to do is make sure it’s clean and protected from the sun. You can use the same TriNova UV Protectant Spray for extra protection from the sun.
If you detect any scratches, fractures, or looseness, we recommend calling the manufacturer or installation service to see what they can do about it.
Final Thoughts
You’re now ready to buy your pontoon boat slide kit and have a great time with your family and friends. If you’re a first-time user, here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of your slide.
Anchor your boat in a quiet place away from the wind and close enough to the shore. It’s best to be in an area where the water isn’t too deep or too shallow. Just deep enough to be able to use it safely.
Last but not least, if you’re buying an inflatable slide kit, always have an extra pump on your boat.